The Rolling Stones are a legendary rock band formed in London in 1962. They are considered one of the most influential and enduring rock acts in music history, with a career spanning over six decades. The band’s original lineup consisted of Mick Jagger on lead vocals, Keith Richards on guitar, Brian Jones on guitar and harmonica, Charlie Watts on drums, and Bill Wyman on bass. Over the years, the lineup has changed, but Jagger and Richards have remained the core members.
The Rolling Stones rose to prominence in the early 1960s as part of the British Invasion, a wave of British bands that gained popularity in the United States. They quickly became known for their rebellious image, catchy tunes, and energetic live performances. Their early hits include “Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.”
Throughout their career, The Rolling Stones have experimented with various musical styles, including rock and roll, blues, country, and psychedelia. They are known for their raw, bluesy sound, driven by Richards’ iconic guitar riffs and Jagger’s charismatic stage presence.
Despite numerous lineup changes and personal struggles, The Rolling Stones have remained one of the most enduring and successful bands in rock history. They have sold over 200 million records worldwide and continue to tour and perform to this day, with Jagger and Richards still leading the way. Their influence on popular culture and music is immeasurable, and they are widely regarded as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
1. Gimme Shelter
“Gimme Shelter” is a powerful rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1969 on their album “Let It Bleed.” It’s one of the band’s most iconic and enduring tracks, known for its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and intense vocal performance by Mick Jagger and backing vocalist Merry Clayton.
The song is characterized by its ominous atmosphere, driven by Keith Richards’ distinctive guitar riff and a dark, brooding rhythm section. The lyrics, written by Jagger and Richards, reflect the turbulent social and political climate of the late 1960s, touching on themes of violence, conflict, and the search for refuge and solace.
“Gimme Shelter” features a memorable guest vocal performance by Merry Clayton, whose powerful and soulful voice adds depth and emotion to the song’s chorus. Her spine-tingling vocals, particularly on the line “Rape, murder, it’s just a shot away,” provide a chilling counterpoint to Jagger’s lead vocals and underscore the song’s sense of urgency and desperation.
The song’s title and central refrain, “Gimme shelter,” have become synonymous with the desire for protection and security in times of chaos and uncertainty. “Gimme Shelter” has been widely acclaimed as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest achievements, praised for its powerful lyrics, memorable melody, and electrifying performances.
Over the years, “Gimme Shelter” has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a timeless classic and one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring and impactful songs.
2. Paint It Black
“Paint It Black” is a signature song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1966 as a single and later included on their album “Aftermath.” It’s one of the band’s most iconic tracks, known for its distinctive sitar riff, evocative lyrics, and driving rhythm.
The song opens with a haunting and hypnotic sitar riff played by Brian Jones, which immediately grabs the listener’s attention. This Eastern-inspired melody sets the tone for the rest of the song, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue.
Lyrically, “Paint It Black” explores themes of grief, loss, and despair. The narrator describes their world turning black as they grapple with the death of a loved one, expressing a desire to shut out all light and color from their life. The lyrics convey a sense of anguish and emptiness, capturing the raw emotions of mourning and heartbreak.
Musically, “Paint It Black” features a driving rhythm section, with Charlie Watts’ powerful drumming and Bill Wyman’s solid bassline providing a propulsive groove. Mick Jagger’s vocals are filled with intensity and emotion, perfectly complementing the song’s dark and brooding atmosphere.
“Paint It Black” became a commercial success, topping the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its innovative use of Eastern instrumentation and its powerful lyrics have made it one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring and beloved songs, cementing its status as a classic of the rock genre.
3. Sympathy for the Devil
“Sympathy for the Devil” is a rock song by the English rock band The Rolling Stones, featured on their 1968 album “Beggars Banquet.” It was written by the band’s frontman Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards.
“Sympathy for the Devil” is characterized by its hypnotic rhythm, driven by percussionist Brian Jones’ congas and drummer Charlie Watts’ syncopated beat. The song also features a distinctive guitar riff played by Richards, as well as Jagger’s charismatic and dramatic vocal delivery.
Lyrically, “Sympathy for the Devil” takes on the persona of the devil himself, with Jagger singing from the perspective of Satan as he recounts various historical events and figures. The song explores themes of temptation, corruption, and the darker aspects of human nature.
“Sympathy for the Devil” has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and enduring songs, known for its infectious groove and provocative lyrics. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic in the rock music canon.
4. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and enduring songs, released in 1965 as a single and later included on their album “Out of Our Heads.” It’s widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time and a defining moment in the band’s career.
The song opens with one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history, played by Keith Richards. This catchy riff, along with the driving rhythm section provided by drummer Charlie Watts and bassist Bill Wyman, creates a powerful and infectious groove that immediately grabs the listener’s attention.
Lyrically, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” explores themes of frustration, disillusionment, and social alienation. Mick Jagger’s lyrics express a sense of dissatisfaction with consumer culture and the constant bombardment of advertising and media messages. The chorus, with its defiant declaration of “I can’t get no satisfaction,” resonated with audiences around the world and became an anthem for a generation.
The song’s rebellious spirit and infectious energy made it an instant hit, topping the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its innovative blend of rock and blues influences, along with Jagger’s charismatic vocal delivery, helped solidify The Rolling Stones’ reputation as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” remains a staple of classic rock radio and has been covered by countless artists across different genres. Its timeless appeal and enduring popularity continue to make it a favorite among music fans of all ages.
5. You Can’t Always Get What You Want
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, featured on their 1969 album “Let It Bleed.” It was written by the band’s frontman Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards.
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is characterized by its anthemic chorus and rich instrumentation, including a choir and brass section. The song also features Jagger’s distinctive vocal delivery, as well as Richards’ memorable guitar work.
Lyrically, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” reflects on themes of acceptance, resilience, and the unpredictability of life. The song’s chorus, which repeats the titular phrase, serves as a reminder that despite life’s challenges, it’s important to maintain a positive outlook and keep moving forward.
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved and enduring songs, known for its powerful message and timeless appeal. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a classic in the rock music canon.
6. Tumbling Dice
“Tumbling Dice” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1972 as a single and later included on their album “Exile on Main St.” It’s one of the band’s most beloved and enduring tracks, known for its infectious groove, bluesy guitar work, and catchy chorus.
The song features a rollicking rhythm driven by Charlie Watts’ dynamic drumming and Mick Jagger’s soulful vocal delivery. Keith Richards’ bluesy guitar riff and Mick Taylor’s slide guitar add depth and texture to the song’s sound, while Bill Wyman’s bassline provides a solid foundation for the groove.
Lyrically, “Tumbling Dice” explores themes of luck, fate, and the ups and downs of life. The lyrics use gambling metaphors to convey the unpredictable nature of relationships and the constant ebb and flow of fortune. The chorus, with its memorable refrain of “You’re the same old line,” captures the cyclical nature of human experience and the inevitability of repeating patterns.
“Tumbling Dice” became a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its infectious melody and irresistible groove made it an instant classic and a favorite among fans of The Rolling Stones.
Over the years, “Tumbling Dice” has remained a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances and has been covered by numerous artists across different genres. Its timeless appeal and universal themes continue to resonate with audiences around the world, cementing its status as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest songs.
7. Jumpin’ Jack Flash
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released as a single in 1968. It was later included on their 1969 album “Through the Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2)” and various compilation albums. The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is known for its iconic guitar riff, played by Keith Richards, which opens the song and drives its energetic rhythm. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a mysterious and resilient figure named Jack Flash, who overcomes various obstacles and challenges.
With its raw energy, catchy melody, and powerful vocals by Mick Jagger, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” became one of The Rolling Stones’ signature songs and a classic in the rock genre. It reached the top of the charts in several countries and remains a staple of the band’s live performances.
8. Honky Tonk Women
“Honky Tonk Women” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released as a single in 1969. It later appeared on their compilation album “Through the Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2)” and various other compilation albums. The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
“Honky Tonk Women” is characterized by its infectious guitar riff, played by Keith Richards, and its upbeat rhythm. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a wild and carefree woman who frequents honky-tonk bars, enjoying the company of various men.
With its catchy melody and memorable chorus, “Honky Tonk Women” became one of The Rolling Stones’ most popular and enduring songs. It topped the charts in several countries and remains a staple of the band’s live performances. The song’s combination of rock, blues, and country influences has contributed to its lasting appeal.
9. Start Me Up
“Start Me Up” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1981 as the lead single from their album “Tattoo You.” It’s one of the band’s most recognizable and enduring tracks, known for its infectious guitar riff, catchy chorus, and energetic vibe.
The song opens with a distinctive guitar riff by Keith Richards, which immediately grabs the listener’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the track. Charlie Watts’ driving drumbeat and Bill Wyman’s solid bassline provide a powerful rhythm section, while Mick Jagger’s vocals exude confidence and swagger.
Lyrically, “Start Me Up” is about desire, excitement, and the thrill of new beginnings. The lyrics describe the anticipation and anticipation of embarking on a new adventure or relationship, with Jagger urging the listener to “start me up” and get things going.
“Start Me Up” became a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of The Rolling Stones’ biggest hits of the 1980s. Its infectious melody and irresistible groove made it a favorite among fans and a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances.
Over the years, “Start Me Up” has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its status as one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring and iconic songs. Its timeless appeal and universal themes continue to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a classic rock anthem for generations to come.
10. Brown Sugar
“Brown Sugar” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released as a single in 1971. It later appeared as the opening track on their album “Sticky Fingers.” The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
“Brown Sugar” is known for its catchy guitar riff, played by Keith Richards, and its raw and energetic performance. The song’s lyrics touch on themes of slavery, racism, and sexual desire, with Jagger singing about a woman of African descent and the complexities of their relationship.
Despite its controversial lyrics, “Brown Sugar” became one of The Rolling Stones’ biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. It remains a staple of the band’s live performances and is regarded as one of their signature songs. Its blend of rock, blues, and soul influences has contributed to its lasting popularity.