The Rolling Stones, formed in London in 1962, are considered one of the greatest and longest-lasting rock bands in history. Comprised of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood, and originally Brian Jones, the band has become synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll, rebelliousness, and enduring musical excellence.
The Rolling Stones’ music is characterized by their raw energy, bluesy influences, and infectious hooks. Their iconic hits such as “Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” and “Start Me Up” have become anthems of rock music, showcasing their distinctive sound and Jagger’s charismatic vocals. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend rock, blues, country, and even reggae elements into their music has solidified their status as innovators of the genre.
Known for their electrifying live performances, The Rolling Stones have an unmatched stage presence and a reputation for high-energy concerts that have captivated audiences for decades. Their longevity as a touring act is a testament to their enduring popularity and ability to deliver unforgettable live experiences.
The Rolling Stones’ impact extends far beyond their music. They embodied the rebellious spirit of the 1960s and became cultural icons, challenging conventions and pushing boundaries. Their influence on fashion, art, and pop culture is immeasurable, with their iconic tongue logo becoming an instantly recognizable symbol of rock ‘n’ roll.
With a discography spanning over six decades, The Rolling Stones continue to release new music and thrill audiences with their performances. Their contribution to rock music, their enduring presence, and their ability to captivate and inspire generations of fans make them one of the greatest rock bands of all time. The Rolling Stones are a true testament to the power of rock ‘n’ roll, and their music will continue to resonate for generations to come.
1. Wild Horses
This timeless classic by The Rolling Stones is easily one of their best-known and most beloved pieces. Its gentle, country-rock stylings, intimate lyrics and soulful melodies have won the hearts of countless fans the world over. Released in 1971, 'Wild Horses' stands out for its raw emotional power and striking musicianship. With Keith Richards on guitar and Mick Jagger's distinctive vocals soaring over the top, this song is a true masterpiece.
Continuing with its haunting melody, this song will make you feel like you're floating above the clouds. The sentimental lyrics tug at your heartstrings as if they were written solely for you. As each note lingers in the air, you can almost hear The Rolling Stones pouring every ounce of emotion into its creation. There's no doubt that 'Wild Horses' has cemented itself as an unforgettable classic of its time.
What sets this track apart from other ballads is how it came to be; according to legend, Mick Jagger originally wrote it while reflecting on his troubled relationship with ex-girlfriend Marianne Faithfull. He later collaborated with Keith Richards to transform it into what we know and love today – a moving ode to love, loss and letting go. It's these personal touches that make 'Wild Horses' such a special song within The Rolling Stones' discography.
"Can you hear me knocking? It's just Mick Jagger trying to remind Keith Richards of who wrote the riff."
2. Can’t You Hear Me Knocking
This timeless musical masterpiece by The Rolling Stones, with its raw energy and captivating rhythms, is a true representation of the band's exceptional talent. The song, which was released in 1971 on their album Sticky Fingers, features an unforgettable guitar riff by Mick Taylor and a brilliant saxophone solo by Bobby Keys. Its lyrics, written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, vividly convey the intensity of a restless soul seeking escape from the mundane. Can you not perceive the incessant knocking on your door?
With its dynamic fusion of rock and funk elements, 'Can't You Hear Me Knocking' stands out as one of the iconic band's finest offerings to date. The song's instrumental sections feature virtuosic performances by its masterful musicians that showcase their musical prowess. As the song progresses, it seamlessly transitions into a dazzling jam session that leaves listeners spellbound.
Moreover, this track epitomizes the distinct sound that The Rolling Stones are famous for– gritty guitars, blues-infused tunes that blend with Jagger's harmonious vocals to create an inimitable listening experience.
Finally, Did you know that Keith Richards came up with the signature riff while jamming on his guitar in a recording studio? This legendary tune has endured time and continues to captivate music enthusiasts around the world through its timeless melodies.
'Jumpin' Jack Flash' is the perfect song to blast while fleeing from your problems, or just to remind yourself that Mick Jagger's voice is better than your therapist.
3. Jumpin’ Jack Flash
One of the classic hits by The Rolling Stones is about a mysterious guy named Jack Flash who seems to be on a mission, but nobody knows where or why. 'Jumpin' Jack Flash' is known for its catchy riffs and heavy beats that have kept people dancing since its release in 1968. Mick Jagger's vocals add an edgy touch to the song, and Keith Richards' guitar work shows why he's one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
The inspiration for the song came from Richards' gardener, Jack Dyer, who was having a rough day. When asked how he was doing, Dyer replied, "Oh, I'm just jumping jack flash." Richards thought it was a cool phrase and suggested they use it for a song title. The rest is history.
Aside from its music and lyrics, what makes this song iconic is how it reflects the chaotic times when it was written. Rolling Stone magazine called it "a charmingly eccentric riff-driven tune about paranoid frame of mind." It resonated with many people who were trying to make sense of the political unrest and social upheaval that characterized the late 60s.
'Angie' may have your heart, but Mick Jagger still has your teenage daughter's phone number.
4. Angie
This entry in the list of the ten best The Rolling Stones songs of all time refers to a melancholic ballad that captures the essence of a doomed love affair. The song title was inspired by Angela Bowie but is not about her, and its lyrics reflect heartbreak and longing for an unattainable love interest. Mick Jagger's vocals add texture and emotion to Keith Richards' melodic guitar riffs, making this tune an unforgettable classic.
Paint it black? More like paint it dark, because this eerie classic will send chills down your spine.
5. Paint It, Black
Exploring one of the most iconic tracks in The Rolling Stones' catalog, this song is a masterpiece of rock and roll. With its distinctive, hypnotic guitar riff and haunting lyrics about death and mourning, this classic track has stood the test of time. Here are three points that make ‘5. Paint It, Black’ a timeless hit:
- The song's unusual instrumentation sets it apart from other Stones tracks. With its use of sitar and tambura, 'Paint It, Black' creates an otherworldly sound that captures the mood of despair.
- Lyrically, 'Paint It, Black' is a fascinating insight into Mick Jagger's psyche. The subject matter is dark and unnerving, with images of graves and black roses running throughout the song.
- As a live anthem and concert staple for over 50 years, 'Paint It, Black' is a crowd-pleaser that never gets old.
One unique aspect of this track is how it showcases Keith Richards' talents as both a guitarist and songwriter. While Jagger wrote most Stones hits, Richards had an important creative role in crafting the signature riff that makes 'Paint It, Black' unforgettable.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the song's impact on popular culture, listen to it on high-quality headphones to hear every detail of its intricate production.
Even a bomb shelter couldn't protect you from the explosive energy of 'Gimme Shelter'.
6. Gimme Shelter
The Rolling Stones' piece called "Gimme Shelter" is a masterpiece that stands the test of time. Its haunting and intense opening makes it one of the most iconic rock tunes to have ever graced the music industry. Its soulful melody, socially conscious lyrics, and captivating chorus have made it an enduring classic. The synergy between Mick Jagger's electrifying vocals and Merry Clayton's soulful backing vocals make this track noteworthy. It remains a defiant anthem for freedom in these trying times.
Roll the dice and take your chances with this Rolling Stones classic that's sure to get you tumbling down the rabbit hole of rock n' roll goodness.
7. Tumbling Dice
This Stones classic, about life on the road and gambling, features Keith Richards' iconic guitar riffs and Mick Jagger's soulful vocals. Its infectious melody and catchy chorus make it an eternal crowd-pleaser. The song's lyrics evoke a sense of risk-taking and spontaneity, which is a hallmark of the band's persona. In addition to its chart performance, Tumbling Dice has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various media outlets, cementing its status as one of the Stones' greatest hits.
Sympathy for the Devil proves that even Satan has better taste in music than most of my exes.
8. Sympathy for the Devil’
This iconic song from The Rolling Stones is often regarded as one of their most popular tracks. It showcases the group's musical prowess as well as their poetic flair. 'The Devil' in this song represents various manifestations of evil throughout history while drawing similarities between them all. This track was created in a time when society was changing, and people were questioning longstanding morals and beliefs. It captured the zeitgeist of the moment and continues to resonate with listeners today.
In 'Sympathy for the Devil', Mick Jagger's haunting vocals perfectly complement Keith Richard's intricate guitar riffs, creating a darkly atmospheric mood that persists throughout the entire song. The track's complex rhythms meld together multiple genres, including rock, blues, and even world music elements. The lyrics are thought-provoking and contain references to everything from religious mythology to Russian Revolution-era politics.
Interestingly, this song has been interpreted in various ways over the years, with some critics even accusing it of promoting Satanism or glorifying evil. However, Jagger himself has clarified that his intent was to explore how evil can manifest itself in different forms throughout history.
'Sympathy for the Devil' stands out not only because it is musically innovative but also due to its philosophical depth and cultural significance. Its timeless appeal has ensured its place as one of The Rolling Stones' greatest hits and an essential part of rock history.
Legend has it that during a live performance of 'Sympathy for the Devil', Jagger saw a man being beaten by Hell's Angels in the audience and promptly stopped playing until security stepped in to help. This incident underscores both Jagger's dedication to his fans and his commitment to using his platform responsibly.
Even Mick Jagger can't seem to find satisfaction, but at least we can all agree that this song is a classic.
9. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
This iconic rock tune, with its catchy guitar riff and edgy vocals by Mick Jagger, is perhaps one of the most recognizable and beloved songs by The Rolling Stones. It was released in 1965 as a single, and soon climbed to the top of the charts, where it stayed for several weeks. The infectious hook and relatable lyrics about consumer culture struck a chord with listeners, solidifying The Rolling Stones' place in music history.
The opening line of "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" immediately captures your attention and sets the tone for the rest of the song. Jagger's frustrated voice laments his inability to find any satisfaction or contentment in life, despite his seemingly endless pursuits of material possessions and experiences. Keith Richards' simple yet memorable guitar riff drives the song forward with energy and attitude, making it impossible not to tap your foot or bob your head along.
What sets this song apart is its timeless appeal; despite being over 50 years old, "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" still sounds fresh and exciting today. It has been covered by countless bands and artists over the years, cementing its status as a true classic. The song also sparked controversy upon its release due to its suggestive lyrics, but ultimately proved that The Rolling Stones were more than just a typical "boy band."
Interestingly enough, Mick Jagger has said that he actually dislikes performing this song live because it's so overplayed – but his distaste doesn't diminish its impact on music lovers around the world. "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" will undoubtedly remain a staple in rock music for generations to come.
Even the Rolling Stones couldn't get what they wanted – a world where ‘You Can’t Always Get What You Want’ isn't a painfully relatable anthem.
10. You Can’t Always Get What You Want’
This Rolling Stones classic, found on their 1969 album “Let It Bleed,” reminds us that life doesn’t always go as planned. Though desires and needs aren’t always fulfilled, there’s still joy in living and striving for improvement. The song's combination of hard-charging rock and gospel choirs ensured a place in the lexicon of rock music.
Mick Jagger delivers lead vocals with his signature swagger while Keith Richards offers twangy guitar riffs that give the song its distinctive edge. The addition of a choral arrangement by producer Jack Nitzsche brought a unique sound to the track and solidified its status as an iconic piece of the Stones’ discography.
Though written over five decades ago, "You Can't Always Get What You Want" remains relevant to this day due to its universal message – that life is full of disappointment and unexpected twists, but it's important to keep moving forward no matter what obstacles may arise.
Interestingly enough, despite its optimistic undertones, the song was directly inspired by the Vietnam War draft and the tumultuous political landscape of the late 1960s. Songwriter Mick Jagger saw protests breaking out everywhere he went and was struck by how futile it all seemed. Nonetheless, he channeled his frustrations into this uplifting melody – encouraging listeners to find peace in accepting life's limitations while still remaining resilient in their pursuit of happiness.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
