Russell was hired as the photographer for The Rolling Stones American Tour 1969 , and was part of the band 's small entourage . The San Francisco Chronicle described his role : " Russell was one of only 16 people on the tour , including the band . With unprecedented access to the Rolling Stones , he captured photos that have become classics . " Joel Selvin observed : " Russell joined a touring party of 16 for the Stones ' tour of the United States in 1969 , which ended with the disastrous free concert at Altamont Speedway . It was really the first big-time rock tour ever and the world in transition he captured disappeared almost immediately
The Rolling Stones American Tour 1969
The Rolling Stones American Tour 1969
Ethan Russell