The Rolling Stones are a legendary rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With over 50 years of history and countless hit songs, they have cemented their place in music history as one of the most influential and successful bands of all time. From their early beginnings in London in the 1960s to their current status as cultural icons, The Rolling Stones have been celebrated for their gritty, bluesy sound and rebellious attitude.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Rolling Stones songs of all time. From their classic hits to their lesser-known gems, we will delve into what makes each of these songs so special and why they have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, this list is sure to bring back memories and showcase the timeless appeal of The Rolling Stones. So sit back, turn up the volume, and get ready to rock out to some of the greatest songs in music history.
1. Can’t You Hear Me Knocking
“Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” is a dynamic and energetic song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1971 as part of their album “Sticky Fingers.” The track features Mick Jagger’s iconic vocals, Keith Richards’ distinct guitar riffs, and a memorable saxophone solo by Bobby Keys.
The song begins with a catchy guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track, which gradually builds up to a frenetic pace. Jagger’s vocals are powerful and expressive, conveying a sense of urgency and intensity that is mirrored by the instrumental sections. The saxophone solo towards the end of the song adds another layer of complexity and excitement, making it a fan favorite.
Overall, “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” is a prime example of The Rolling Stones’ signature sound, featuring a perfect blend of blues, rock, and funk elements. It remains one of their most beloved songs and a testament to their enduring legacy in the music industry.
2. Wild Horses
“Wild Horses” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1971 as part of their iconic album “Sticky Fingers.” The song features a stripped-down arrangement that puts Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals and Keith Richards’ acoustic guitar front and center.
The lyrics are a poignant reflection on love and loss, with Jagger’s heartfelt delivery adding to the emotional impact of the song. The chorus, which repeats the line “Wild horses couldn’t drag me away,” has become one of the most memorable and iconic lines in rock history.
“Wild Horses” is widely regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its timeless appeal and universal themes resonating with listeners across generations. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in countless films and TV shows, cementing its status as a classic rock ballad.
3. Jumpin’ Jack Flash
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1968. The track features a catchy guitar riff, dynamic percussion, and Mick Jagger’s electrifying vocals.
The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery and metaphor, with Jagger describing a mysterious and elusive character named Jack Flash. The chorus, which features the iconic line “It’s a gas, gas, gas,” has become a staple of rock culture and is instantly recognizable to music fans around the world.
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is widely considered to be one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its infectious energy and raw power capturing the spirit of rock and roll. It has been covered by countless artists and featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
4. Angie
“Angie” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1973 as part of their album “Goats Head Soup.” The song features a simple yet powerful arrangement, with Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals and Keith Richards’ acoustic guitar providing the main focus.
The lyrics tell the story of a relationship that has ended, with Jagger’s poignant delivery conveying a sense of sadness and longing. The chorus, which features the repeated refrain “Angie, Angie, when will those clouds all disappear?,” has become one of the most memorable and iconic lines in rock history.
“Angie” is widely regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest ballads, with its timeless appeal and universal themes resonating with listeners across generations. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in countless films and TV shows, cementing its status as a classic rock song.
5. Paint It, Black
“Paint It, Black” is a dark and brooding song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1966. The track features a haunting melody, with Mick Jagger’s vocals conveying a sense of melancholy and despair.
The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery, with Jagger describing a world that is devoid of color and light. The use of sitar in the song’s instrumentation adds an exotic and psychedelic element to the track, making it stand out in the band’s catalog.
“Paint It, Black” is widely regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its unique sound and powerful lyrics capturing the spirit of the 1960s. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
6. Gimme Shelter
“Gimme Shelter” is a powerful and intense song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1969 as part of their album “Let It Bleed.” The track features a driving rhythm, dynamic percussion, and a powerful vocal performance by Mick Jagger.
The lyrics are full of social commentary and political undertones, with Jagger warning of the dangers of war and violence. The chorus, which features the iconic line “It’s just a shot away,” has become one of the most memorable and powerful moments in rock history.
“Gimme Shelter” is widely regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its urgent message and intense sound capturing the spirit of the late 1960s. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in countless films and TV shows, cementing its status as a classic rock anthem.
7. Tumbling Dice
“Tumbling Dice” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1972 as part of their album “Exile on Main St.” The track features a catchy guitar riff, dynamic percussion, and Mick Jagger’s signature vocals.
The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery and metaphors, with Jagger describing a world of gambling and risk-taking. The chorus, which features the repeated refrain “Tumbling dice, baby,” has become one of the most memorable and iconic lines in rock history.
“Tumbling Dice” is widely considered to be one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its infectious energy and catchy melody capturing the spirit of rock and roll. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
8. Sympathy for the Devil’
“Sympathy for the Devil” is a provocative and powerful song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1968 as part of their album “Beggars Banquet.” The track features a hypnotic rhythm, dynamic percussion, and Mick Jagger’s iconic vocals.
The song’s lyrics are full of social commentary and religious undertones, with Jagger assuming the persona of the devil and describing the various atrocities committed throughout history. The chorus, which features the repeated refrain “Pleased to meet you, hope you guess my name,” has become one of the most memorable and iconic lines in rock history.
“Sympathy for the Devil” is widely regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its provocative message and intense sound capturing the spirit of the late 1960s. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in countless films and TV shows, cementing its status as a classic rock anthem.
9. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is a timeless classic by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1965. The track features a catchy guitar riff, dynamic percussion, and Mick Jagger’s energetic vocals.
The song’s lyrics are full of social commentary, with Jagger describing the frustrations of modern life and the constant search for fulfillment. The chorus, which features the iconic line “I can’t get no satisfaction,” has become one of the most memorable and recognizable moments in rock history.
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is widely considered to be one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its infectious energy and rebellious spirit capturing the essence of rock and roll. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in countless films and TV shows, cementing its status as a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
10. You Can’t Always Get What You Want’
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is a poignant and uplifting song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1969 as part of their album “Let It Bleed.” The track features a sweeping orchestral arrangement, dynamic percussion, and Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals.
The song’s lyrics are full of wisdom and optimism, with Jagger reminding listeners that life is full of ups and downs and that one must learn to appreciate the journey. The chorus, which features the repeated refrain “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find, you get what you need,” has become one of the most beloved and inspiring moments in rock history.
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is widely regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs, with its timeless message and uplifting sound capturing the spirit of the late 1960s. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its status as a classic rock anthem that continues to inspire audiences today.
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.
