Rolling Stones Eyeing Molokini for Experimental 'Boat Drive-In' Concert {NRL}

Noticing a perfect opportunity to test a new concept, classic rockers the Rolling Stones are studying the Molokini islet off the coast of Maui for an experimental "boat drive-in" concert to end 2022.

While it's still more than a year out, the Stones earlier this month sent an exploratory team to study the islet's structure, currents and swells around it, and how sound might bounce off the crescent-shaped volcanic crater.

"Keith and I have thought for years about trying new types of venues for our concerts," said Mick Jagger, lead singer and co-founder of the Stones, along with childhood friend Keith Richards. "I mean, we've played darn near every single venue around the world the past half of a century. We really gotta think outside the box."

"It could have this 'Pirates of the Caribbean' feel, okay?" Richards said. "How groovy would that be?"

The concept is a New Year's Eve 2022 concert with a stage somehow arranged in the middle of the islet's thicker center section, facing north ~ to a sea of boats, rafts, and canoes.

It would be akin to the old-fashioned drive-in movie theaters, only on water, Jagger said.

"Not only is the islet perfectly shaped, it's right across the channel from Steven Tyler's place in South Maui," Jagger said. "We want to keep him awake that night so he can help us all celebrate the coming of 2023."

"Maybe we'll ask Aerosmith to open," Richards said.

Maui Mayor Michael P. Victorino withheld comment on the idea until he sees a formal proposal and application.

He did, however, make note of the COVID-19 restrictions that will probably still be in place countywide.

"Just remember, we're all in this together," Victorino said. "Keep the boats at least 6 feet apart from one another, and everyone should be wearing at least 1 mask, including the Stones."

Jagger said they hope to start selling tickets by mid-2022.

"We just have to figure out how to charge boat operators, and keep people from swimming up close for free," he said. "We don't want a Water Woodstock."