From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

"Loving Cup" is a song by The Rolling Stones featured on their 1972 album Exile on Main St.

An early version of this song, with a completely different piano intro, was recorded between April and July 1969 at Olympic Sound Studios in London, during the Let It Bleed album sessions. Recording of the version of "Loving Cup" that appears on Exile on Main Street started in December 1971 at Los Angeles' Sunset Sound Studios and lasted until March 1972. Mick Jagger performs lead vocals and backing with Keith Richards. Richards and Mick Taylor perform the song's guitars. Bass and drums are provided by Bill Wyman and Charlie Watts, respectively. Piano is provided by Stones recording veteran Nicky Hopkins. Saxophone is by Bobby Keys and both trumpet and trombone are by Jim Price. The album's producer, Jimmy Miller, provides the maracas.

"Loving Cup" has been performed sporadically by the Stones' since its introduction to their catalogue. It was heard during the 1972 tour of America, and was re-introduced to setlists during the 2002-2003 Licks Tour. It was also performed with Jack White during the 2006 leg of the A Bigger Bang Tour, with this version featured in both the movie and album Shine a Light.

The band Phish frequently covers "Loving Cup" during live performances.