The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic rock bands in history, known for their high-energy performances, catchy hooks, and bluesy sound. Since their formation in 1962, the band has released countless hits and cemented their status as rock and roll legends. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best songs the Rolling Stones have ever recorded.
From classic rock anthems like “Satisfaction” and “Start Me Up” to heartfelt ballads like “Wild Horses” and “Angie,” the Rolling Stones have something for everyone. Over the years, the band has continued to evolve and experiment with their sound, incorporating elements of country, funk, and even reggae into their music. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering their music for the first time, this list of the 20 best Rolling Stones songs is sure to inspire and entertain. So sit back, turn up the volume, and get ready to rock out with some of the greatest hits in music history!
1. Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker) (1973)
“Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker)” is a song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1973. The song features a driving rhythm section, including a prominent bass line, and powerful vocals by Mick Jagger. Lyrically, the song explores the themes of crime, violence, and social unrest, with Jagger singing about the brutal reality of life in the city. The song’s chorus features the memorable repetition of the title phrase, “Doo doo doo doo doo,” which has become a hallmark of the song. With its powerful groove and socially conscious lyrics, “Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker)” remains a beloved classic rock hit.
2. Shine a Light (1972)
“Shine a Light” is a soulful and emotional song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1972. The song features a gospel choir and a prominent piano melody, with lead vocals by Mick Jagger. The lyrics of the song are deeply personal, exploring themes of hope, redemption, and the power of love to overcome adversity. The song’s title is a metaphor for the healing power of music, with Jagger singing about the importance of shining a light on the darkness in order to find a way through it. With its heartfelt message and powerful performance, “Shine a Light” has become a beloved classic in the Stones’ catalog.
3. Wild Horses (1971)
“Wild Horses” is a classic ballad by The Rolling Stones, released in 1971. The song features a hauntingly beautiful melody, with acoustic guitar and piano instrumentation and emotive vocals by Mick Jagger. The lyrics of the song explore the themes of love, loss, and the passing of time, with Jagger singing about the pain of letting go of someone he cares about deeply. The song has become a beloved classic, with its gentle yet powerful performance and heartfelt lyrics resonating with listeners for generations. “Wild Horses” remains one of the most iconic and beloved ballads in the Rolling Stones’ repertoire.
4. Tumbling Dice (1972)
“Tumbling Dice” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1972. The song features a driving rhythm section, with Keith Richards’ distinctive guitar riff providing the backbone of the track. Mick Jagger’s dynamic vocals tell a story of love, risk-taking, and gambling, with lyrics that capture the excitement and danger of rolling the dice. The song’s memorable chorus and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio. With its infectious energy and timeless appeal, “Tumbling Dice” remains one of the Rolling Stones’ most iconic and beloved hits.
5. Time Is on My Side (1964)
“Time Is on My Side” is a classic song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1964. The song features a bluesy melody, with a prominent saxophone riff and Mick Jagger’s soulful vocals. The lyrics of the song celebrate the power of time, with Jagger singing about how he has all the time in the world to wait for the woman he loves to come around. The song has become a beloved classic, with its infectious groove and memorable chorus inspiring generations of fans. “Time Is on My Side” remains one of the most iconic and enduring songs in the Rolling Stones’ catalog.
6. Angie (1973)
“Angie” is a tender ballad by The Rolling Stones, released in 1973. The song features a beautiful acoustic guitar melody and Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals, with lyrics that express regret and longing for a lost love. The song’s title is rumored to be a reference to David Bowie’s ex-wife, Angela, with whom Jagger was friends at the time. “Angie” has become a beloved classic, with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody resonating with listeners for generations. The song is a testament to the Stones’ ability to masterfully blend rock and balladry, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
7. Street Fighting Man (1968)
“Street Fighting Man” is a powerful and politically charged song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968. The song features a driving rhythm section, with Keith Richards’ gritty guitar riff providing the backbone of the track. Mick Jagger’s impassioned vocals call for revolution and social change, with lyrics that reflect the turbulent political climate of the late 1960s. The song has become an anthem for activism and rebellion, with its raw energy and urgent message inspiring generations of fans. “Street Fighting Man” remains one of the most iconic and enduring songs in the Rolling Stones’ catalog, and a testament to the power of rock music to inspire social change.
8. Honky Tonk Women (1969)
“Honky Tonk Women” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1969. The song features a catchy guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s signature vocals, with lyrics that tell the story of a wild and carefree woman who frequents honky tonk bars. The song’s infectious groove and raunchy lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio. “Honky Tonk Women” remains one of the Rolling Stones’ most beloved hits, with its timeless appeal and irresistible energy inspiring generations of fans. The song is a testament to the band’s ability to create memorable and iconic rock anthems that have stood the test of time.
9. You Can’t Always Get What You Want (1968)
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is an iconic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968. The song features a gospel-inspired chorus and Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals, with lyrics that reflect the struggle to accept life’s disappointments and limitations. The song’s timeless message and catchy melody have made it a beloved classic and a staple of classic rock radio. “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is a testament to the Stones’ ability to craft memorable and meaningful songs that resonate with listeners across generations, and remains a fan favorite to this day. The song’s message of acceptance and perseverance has inspired countless fans to keep on pushing through life’s challenges.
10. Jumpin’ Jack Flash (1968)
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968. The song features Keith Richards’ memorable guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s signature vocals, with lyrics that tell the story of a man who has endured many hardships but keeps on “jumpin’ jack flash” through life. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio. “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” showcases the Stones’ ability to craft powerful rock anthems that have stood the test of time, inspiring generations of fans with its message of resilience and determination.
11. Sympathy for the Devil (1968)
“Sympathy for the Devil” is a landmark song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968. The song features a haunting melody and Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals, with lyrics that take the perspective of the devil throughout history. The song’s eerie atmosphere and provocative lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio. “Sympathy for the Devil” is a testament to the Stones’ ability to push the boundaries of rock music, both musically and lyrically, and remains one of their most enduring and influential songs. The song’s message of empathy and understanding continues to resonate with fans across generations.
12. Fool to Cry (1976)
“Fool to Cry” is a soulful ballad by The Rolling Stones, released in 1976. The song features Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals and a heartfelt melody, with lyrics that explore the pain of lost love. The song’s lush arrangement and polished production marked a departure from the Stones’ earlier raw sound, and showcased their versatility as musicians. “Fool to Cry” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in both the US and UK. The song’s universal themes of heartbreak and resilience continue to resonate with listeners, making it a beloved entry in the Stones’ catalog and a staple of classic rock radio.
13. Midnight Rambler (1968)
“Midnight Rambler” is a blues-rock epic from The Rolling Stones, released in 1968. Clocking in at over six minutes, the song features Keith Richards’ iconic guitar riffs, Mick Jagger’s howling vocals, and a driving rhythm section that captures the essence of the band’s early sound. The lyrics tell the story of a serial killer on the loose, creating a dark and foreboding atmosphere that adds to the song’s intensity. “Midnight Rambler” has become a fan favorite and a staple of the Stones’ live shows, showcasing the band’s musicianship and their ability to create a powerful and unforgettable sonic experience.
14. Paint It Black (1966)
“Paint It Black” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1966. The song features a distinctive sitar riff, played by Brian Jones, and Keith Richards’ guitar work, creating a haunting and psychedelic atmosphere. Mick Jagger’s vocals convey a sense of despair and darkness, reflecting the song’s lyrics about grief and loss. “Paint It Black” became a massive hit for the band, reaching the top of the charts in the US and the UK. The song’s influence can still be heard in modern rock music, making it a timeless classic in the Stones’ catalogue.
15. Gimme Shelter (1968)
“Gimme Shelter” is a powerful song that captures the sense of chaos and danger that characterized the late 1960s. The song’s haunting vocals, piercing guitar riffs, and urgent percussion create a sense of urgency and unease. The lyrics, which were written in response to the violence that erupted during the Altamont Free Concert, speak to the idea of seeking shelter from the storm of societal unrest. The song is a testament to the Stones’ ability to create music that captures the spirit of its time, and it remains a classic example of the band’s work.
16. Let’s Spend the Night Together (1967)
“Let’s Spend the Night Together” is a lively and playful rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1967. With its upbeat tempo, infectious rhythm, and catchy lyrics, the song became a hit for the band. It features lead singer Mick Jagger’s sultry and suggestive vocals, backed by the band’s tight musicianship. The lyrics are about a romantic encounter and the desire to spend the night with a lover. The song was considered controversial at the time due to its suggestive nature, but it remains a classic rock anthem that continues to captivate audiences with its irresistible energy and iconic sound.
17. Moonlight Mile (1971)
“Moonlight Mile” is a melancholic ballad from The Rolling Stones’ 1971 album “Sticky Fingers”. The song is notable for its subdued, atmospheric instrumentation and introspective lyrics. The mournful melody is supported by acoustic guitars, piano, and strings, with Mick Jagger delivering a subdued and reflective vocal performance. The lyrics evoke a sense of weariness and longing, with Jagger singing about being on the road and yearning for the comforts of home. The song builds to a dramatic crescendo, with Jagger’s vocals soaring over a backdrop of swirling strings, before gradually fading away into a haunting coda.
18. Brown Sugar (1971)
The opening track to their album Sticky Fingers, “Brown Sugar” is a high-energy rock song that tackles themes of sexual desire and slavery. The song features Keith Richards’ famous guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s powerful vocals. The lyrics are controversial and have been criticized for their depiction of slavery and black women. Despite this, the song has remained a classic and a staple of their live performances. The recording also features a horn section and female backing vocals, adding to the song’s energy and intensity. “Brown Sugar” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most well-known and recognizable songs.
19. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction (1965)
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is one of the most iconic rock songs ever recorded. Released in 1965, it features Keith Richards’ distinctive guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s rebellious lyrics. The song’s message about the dissatisfaction of youth with consumer culture struck a chord with listeners and became an anthem of the era. Its infectious chorus and catchy melody ensured its enduring popularity and led to it being covered by countless artists. “Satisfaction” marked a turning point in the Stones’ career, propelling them to international stardom and establishing them as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
20. Can’t You Hear Me Knocking (1971)
“Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” is a rock song from The Rolling Stones’ 1971 album “Sticky Fingers”. The track opens with a bluesy and memorable riff played by Keith Richards on guitar, followed by Mick Jagger’s vocals. The song later transitions into an extended instrumental section featuring a saxophone solo by Bobby Keys and a lengthy guitar solo by Mick Taylor. The composition showcases the band’s versatility and musicianship, blending rock, blues, and jazz influences. “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” has become a fan favorite and is considered one of the band’s greatest songs, with its powerful riffs and impressive instrumental performances.
Darren Jamison 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.
