TORONTO — Nearly half a century has passed, but the Rolling Stones have finally satisfied their fans with the official release of their famous show at El Mocambo.

The rock legend said he had completed a new mix of recordings shot at two secret Stones concerts held at the Toronto club on March 4 and 5, 1977.

“Live at the El Mocambo” will be released on May 13, ending a 45 year period when records were only available through pirated copies.

The album will feature their full set from March 5 as well as three bonus tracks from the night before, all mixed by Bob Clearmountain, who has worked with the Stones many times over the years.

Two live tracks — “It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll” and “Rip This Joint” — have been released on digital platforms as teasers.

Only four shows from the venue, known as El Mo, appeared on the Stones’ 1977 live album “Love You Live.”

In its announcement, Universal Music Canada recalled the story behind two secret shows at the Spadina Avenue club.

After being selected as a suitable venue, a radio contest was organized to win tickets to the so-called April Wine show, supported by an unknown band called the Cockroaches.

It turned out that April Wine Halifax was the opener and the other band was one of the greatest rock bands in history.

As the first night unfolds, the secret is uncovered and the Stones’ little club show is part of musical history.

El Mocambo reopened last fall after a major renovation that brought its aging structure into the modern era. The original palm tree neon sign, which once lit up the exterior of the venue, is now part of the indoor décor.

“Live at the El Mocambo” will be released digitally, on a double compact disc and in two LP versions spread over four LPs.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 25, 2022.