"Let It Bleed" is the eighth studio album by the English rock band the Rolling Stones, released on 28 November 1969 by London Records in the United States and on 5 December 1969 by Decca Records in the United Kingdom. Issued during the band's 1969 American Tour, it follows "Beggars Banquet" (1968) and continues the group’s return to a blues-oriented style characteristic of their pre-"Aftermath" (1966) period, while also incorporating elements of gospel, country blues, and country rock. The album was recorded during a turbulent period for the band. Brian Jones, the founder and original leader, was largely absent or unable to contribute meaningfully due to heavy drug use. He was dismissed during the sessions and replaced by Mick Taylor, who contributed guitar overdubs to two tracks. Jones played backing instruments on only two songs and died within a month of his dismissal. Keith Richards performed nearly all rhythm and lead guitar parts for the remainder of the recording. Other band members—Mick Jagger, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts—appear on most tracks. The sessions also featured contributions from producer and percussionist Jimmy Miller, keyboardists Nicky Hopkins, Al Kooper, and former member Ian Stewart, as well as guest musicians including Ry Cooder. "Let It Bleed" reached the top ten in several markets, attaining number one in the UK and number three in the US. Although it did not produce major charting singles, songs such as "Gimme Shelter" and "You Can't Always Get