The Rolling Stones, formed in London in 1962, stand as one of the most iconic and enduring rock bands in history. Comprising Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood, and formerly Brian Jones and Bill Wyman, the band’s electrifying performances and musical innovation have left an indelible mark on popular culture.
With their signature blend of rock, blues, and R&B, The Rolling Stones burst onto the scene in the midst of the British Invasion. Hits like “Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” “Sympathy for the Devil,” and “Start Me Up” exemplify their raw energy, edgy lyrics, and Mick Jagger’s charismatic vocals.
The partnership between Mick Jagger’s dynamic stage presence and Keith Richards’ distinct guitar riffs fueled the band’s success. Their rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, rebellious image, and penchant for controversy became as integral to their brand as their music.
The Rolling Stones’ live performances are legendary, showcasing their ability to captivate audiences with their timeless hits and unwavering energy. Their 1969 U.S. tour, featuring the infamous free concert at Altamont Speedway, became emblematic of both their musical prowess and the tumultuous era.
Their albums, including “Sticky Fingers,” “Exile on Main St.,” and “Some Girls,” have consistently pushed the boundaries of rock music, incorporating diverse influences and styles.
Despite lineup changes, personal struggles, and the passage of time, The Rolling Stones remain a touring powerhouse and an embodiment of rock ‘n’ roll’s enduring spirit. Their impact on music and culture is immeasurable, and their music continues to inspire and resonate with new generations of fans around the world.
1. Gimme Shelter
The Rolling Stones' timeless masterpiece, "Gimme Shelter," captures their musical prowess and is renowned as one of their best creations. It was released in 1969 as the opening track of their album "Let It Bleed." Mick Jagger's powerful vocals, along with Merry Clayton's haunting harmonies, deliver an emotional punch. The lyrics reflect social unrest and Keith Richards' guitar riff sets the tone, instantly recognizable. The use of a female voice in the chorus adds depth to the track, creating a haunting atmosphere. "Gimme Shelter" has been a staple in The Rolling Stones' live performances and is featured in many films and TV shows, making it a cultural phenomenon.
Unexpectedly, Merry Clayton suffered a miscarriage shortly after recording her part due to her passionate performance. This serves as a testament to the raw emotion captured in "Gimme Shelter" and the intensity that went into making it.
2. Paint It Black
Paint It Black is a renowned song by The Rolling Stones. Its mesmerizing tune and impactful lyrics have allured listeners since its release in 1966.
The track demonstrates the band's skill to merge rock and roll with Eastern vibes, featuring a sitar.
Themes of darkness and grief are explored in the verses, which evoke a feeling of despondency and self-reflection.
Mick Jagger's vocals are intense and emotive, giving life to the song.
The iconic guitar riff in Paint It Black is well-known and is the foundation of the melody.
Its contagious rhythm and catchy chorus have come to symbolize The Rolling Stones' musical style.
Additionally, it was featured in the intro of 'Tour of Duty' in the 1980s, familiarising it with a new generation.
Once you listen to 'Sympathy for the Devil', you'll comprehend why Lucifer should be on your playlist.
3. Sympathy for the Devil
Sympathy for the Devil is a highly-revered song from The Rolling Stones. It displays their musical talent and deep lyrics. The song's thought-provoking words cover themes of power, temptation, and human character. The infectious rhythm with Mick Jagger's mesmerizing vocals creates an irresistible groove. Keith Richards' guitar work adds intensity. It is also a social commentary on society's darker side and encourages reflection on our own capacity for wickedness.
Even after decades, Sympathy for the Devil is still appreciated by people around the world, making it one of The Rolling Stones' best songs. Percussion instruments like congas and maracas add an exotic touch, making it more attractive. To top it off, Rolling Stone magazine listed Sympathy for the Devil 32nd on its "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time" list.
Get ready to get no satisfaction, but this article will surely appease your appetite for The Rolling Stones' tunes!
4. (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction is an epic song from The Rolling Stones that has shaped the music industry. Its catchy tune and strong words have hypnotized people for decades.
Let's take a look at the key factors of this iconic song:
- Artist: The Rolling Stones
- Album: Out of Our Heads
- Released: June 1965
- Genre: Rock
- Song Length: 3:43
- Songwriter(s): Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction marked a shift in The Rolling Stones' career, pushing them to greater heights of fame. The rebellious lyrics hit a nerve with listeners, voicing their displeasure with society. Its famous guitar riff grew to be an anthem of the counterculture, making it one of the most recognizable tunes in rock history.
Nowadays, (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction still resonates with audiences all over the globe. Its timeless quality shows us that even in our current day, feelings of discontentment are common. Don't miss out on this iconic song.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the unmatched power of (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction and find out why it is still one of The Rolling Stones' best songs. Let the force of the music fill your veins and feel the raw emotion that symbolizes rock 'n' roll. You won't want to miss this legendary piece of music.
5. You Can't Always Get What You Want
The Rolling Stones' "You Can't Always Get What You Want" is a classic. It captures the feeling of unmet desires and life's bittersweet reality.
- Lyrical Resonance: Mick Jagger's soulful vocals and the band's instrumentation create an emotional connection.
- Iconic Chorus: "You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you might find you get what you need," is an important reminder.
- Epic Arrangement: The song is over seven minutes long. It includes a gospel-inspired choir and sweeping orchestration, adding depth and grandeur.
The Rolling Stones capture human desires in this track. It reaches out with raw emotion.
When you listen to "You Can't Always Get What You Want," reflect on your dreams and accept that life may give you unexpected blessings. The song tumbles my heart every time.
6. Tumbling Dice
Tumbling Dice, at number 6 on the list, is one of The Rolling Stones' best songs. Its catchy melody and soulful lyrics make it timeless.
Why it's great? Let's look into it.
- Released in 1972, on the album "Exile on Main St.", it quickly became a fan favorite. It has rock and blues influences.
- Keith Richards' guitar riff hooks listeners right from the start. Mick Jagger's vocals are energetic and charismatic, perfectly capturing the song's essence.
Plus, the lyrics explore luck, fate, and life's uncertainties. "You got to roll me / And call me the tumbling dice," creates an atmosphere of risk-taking and embracing life's ups and downs.
Pro tip: Listen to Tumbling Dice with headphones to fully appreciate its intricate instrumentation and layered production.
7. Jumpin' Jack Flash
Jumpin' Jack Flash is the 7th best Rolling Stones song. It came out in 1968 and was an instant hit! It's famous for its catchy guitar riff and wild lyrics. It's beloved by fans for its rebellious spirit.
Here are some facts about the song:
- Release Date: May 24, 1968
- Album: Single release
- Genre: Rock
- Songwriters: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
- Producer: Jimmy Miller
It has great energy from Mick Jagger's vocals and Keith Richards' guitar. For the best experience, crank it up to full volume and get lost in the golden era of rock! But be warned – listening to 'Honky Tonk Women' can cause you to involuntarily air guitar and dance… proceed with caution!
8. Honky Tonk Women
Honky Tonk Women, a masterpiece by The Rolling Stones, is famous for its catchy tunes. Its rhythm is infectious and the melody lively. This track is iconic in the rock music world.
Mick Jagger's vocals and Keith Richards' guitar riffs captivated the listeners. Released in 1969, this hit quickly climbed up the charts and became a fan favorite at live performances.
What makes it stand out is its country-rock fusion. It was a risky move for the band, but it paid off as the song became a classic.
Interestingly, there was an alternate version called "Country Honk" on their album "Let It Bleed". It highlighted their versatility in experimenting with sounds.
9. Start Me Up
Start Me Up is an iconic, compelling song by The Rolling Stones. It showcases their signature sound and energy, making it a timeless track.
Here is a quick look:
| Song | Artist | Album | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start Me Up | The Rolling Stones | Tattoo You | 1981 |
Not just a commercial hit, Start Me Up has an interesting history. It was recorded in 1978, but released three years later. It became one of The Rolling Stones' biggest hits, becoming an important part of rock music.
An interesting fact: Keith Richards came up with the opening riff while jamming. Mick Jagger spotted its potential and they created a song out of it.
Start Me Up remains an enduring favorite. Its melody and lyrics resonate with audiences across generations. It shows The Rolling Stones' ability to make timeless music that connects people through rock 'n' roll.
10. Brown Sugar
"Brown Sugar" has earned its place in the top 10 Rolling Stones songs of all time. The amazing blues-inspired riffs and Mick Jagger's passionate vocals make the classic irresistible. It's a unique blend of rock and roll and soulful melodies.
Here's a table that highlights its key attributes:
| Key Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Rock & Roll |
| Release Year | 1971 |
| Album | "Sticky Fingers" |
| Songwriter(s) | Mick Jagger & Keith Richards |
| Chart Success | Reached #1 on multiple charts |
The lyrics of "Brown Sugar" have caused some controversy, but the musical brilliance is indisputable. To truly appreciate this sensational piece of music, try these tips:
- Listen to Mick Jagger's energetic delivery & his vocal range.
- Note Keith Richards' masterful guitar work, especially during the opening riff.
- Appreciate Charlie Watts' drumming skills.
- Notice Bobby Keys' saxophone solo – it adds an extra layer of soulfulness.
If you follow these suggestions and immerse yourself in "Brown Sugar", you can understand why it's become an iconic part of The Rolling Stones' discography.
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.
