The Rolling Stones, one of the most iconic and enduring rock bands in history, have crafted a musical legacy that spans over six decades. With their gritty sound, rebellious attitude, and unforgettable lyrics, they have become synonymous with rock and roll itself. In this article, we will explore the top ten most popular and enduring songs by The Rolling Stones, showcasing their evolution as artists and their impact on music culture. From their early bluesy hits to their more experimental and edgy later works, The Rolling Stones have consistently pushed boundaries and redefined the rock genre. Songs like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” and “Sympathy for the Devil” have not only topped charts but have also become anthems for generations. Each track on this list represents a milestone in the band’s career, showcasing their musical prowess and the timeless quality of their music. Join us as we dive into the unforgettable discography of The Rolling Stones and celebrate the songs that have solidified their place in rock history.
1. Lady Jane
“Lady Jane” stands as a testament to The Rolling Stones’ versatility, showcasing their ability to masterfully blend rock with folk influences. Released in 1966 as part of their album “Aftermath,” the song transports listeners to a medieval setting with its unique instrumentation, featuring Brian Jones on the dulcimer, a rare sight in rock music.
The lyrics, penned by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, tell the story of a man professing his love and admiration for Lady Jane, painting a picture of chivalry and courtly love. Jagger’s vocal delivery is soft and melodic, a departure from his usual gritty, bluesy style, adding to the song’s ethereal quality.
“Lady Jane” was a departure from the band’s more rebellious and energetic tracks, showcasing their ability to explore different musical styles. Despite its initial lukewarm reception, the song has since become a fan favorite and a testament to The Rolling Stones’ musical depth and innovation.
2. Angie
“Angie,” released in 1973, is a poignant ballad that showcases The Rolling Stones’ ability to deliver emotionally charged songs. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song features a heartfelt vocal performance by Jagger and a beautiful acoustic guitar arrangement.
The lyrics are rumored to be about David Bowie’s wife Angela or about Richards’ daughter, but they remain ambiguous, allowing listeners to interpret them in their own way. The melancholic tone of the song is accentuated by the string arrangement, adding depth and emotion to the track.
“Angie” became one of The Rolling Stones’ biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes of love, loss, and longing. The song’s stripped-down arrangement and heartfelt lyrics set it apart from the band’s more rock-oriented tracks, showing their ability to excel in different musical styles.
3. Till the Next Goodbye
“Till the Next Goodbye” is a track from The Rolling Stones’ 1974 album “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll.” The song showcases the band’s ability to blend rock with soulful melodies and introspective lyrics.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Till the Next Goodbye” explores the theme of fleeting love and the pain of parting. Jagger’s emotive vocals are complemented by the band’s tight instrumentation, creating a poignant and memorable track.
The song features a soulful saxophone solo by Bobby Keys, adding a layer of depth to the track. The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and acceptance, as the narrator acknowledges that the love they once shared has come to an end.
Despite not being as commercially successful as some of their other hits, “Till the Next Goodbye” remains a fan favorite and a testament to The Rolling Stones’ musical versatility. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody make it a standout track in the band’s extensive discography.
4. Moonlight Mile
“Moonlight Mile” is a hauntingly beautiful track from The Rolling Stones’ 1971 album “Sticky Fingers.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song features a melancholic melody and introspective lyrics that reflect the loneliness and longing of life on the road.
The song’s title refers to the long, lonely nights spent traveling from city to city, capturing the essence of the rock ‘n roll lifestyle. Jagger’s vocals are soulful and emotive, conveying a sense of longing and introspection.
The instrumentation is rich and layered, with a prominent string arrangement that adds to the song’s ethereal quality. The guitar work, particularly the slide guitar played by Mick Taylor, is also noteworthy, adding a bluesy edge to the track.
“Moonlight Mile” stands out as one of The Rolling Stones’ most mature and introspective songs, showcasing their ability to create music that is both raw and emotionally resonant. The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a standout track in the band’s vast repertoire.
5. Let’s Spend the Night Together
“Let’s Spend the Night Together” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1967 as a double A-side single with “Ruby Tuesday.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is an upbeat and catchy tune that captures the excitement and spontaneity of young love.
The song features Jagger’s distinctive vocals and a driving piano riff by Ian Stewart, giving it a lively and energetic feel. The lyrics express a desire for intimacy and companionship, with Jagger urging his partner to spend the night together.
“Let’s Spend the Night Together” was initially met with controversy due to its suggestive lyrics, leading some radio stations to ban it from airplay. However, the song became a hit and has since become one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic tracks.
Known for its infectious melody and memorable chorus, “Let’s Spend the Night Together” remains a staple of the band’s live performances and a fan favorite. Its enduring popularity is a testament to The Rolling Stones’ ability to create timeless rock ‘n roll anthems.
6. That’s How Strong My Love Is
“That’s How Strong My Love Is” is a soulful ballad originally written and recorded by O.V. Wright in 1964. The Rolling Stones covered the song in 1965, releasing it as a single in the UK.
The Stones’ version features a heartfelt vocal performance by Mick Jagger, showcasing his soulful and emotive singing style. The song is driven by a lush arrangement, with prominent piano and organ parts adding to its soulful sound.
The lyrics express unwavering devotion and love, with Jagger proclaiming the depth of his feelings for his partner. The song’s melody is simple yet powerful, conveying a sense of sincerity and passion.
While not as well-known as some of The Rolling Stones’ other hits, “That’s How Strong My Love Is” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to interpret and revitalize classic soul songs. Jagger’s soulful vocals and the song’s emotive lyrics make it a standout track in the band’s catalog.
7. As Tears Go By
“As Tears Go By” is a poignant ballad that stands out as one of The Rolling Stones’ earliest hits. Released in 1964, it marked a departure from their more rhythm and blues-oriented sound, showcasing their ability to deliver emotive and introspective songs.
Written by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and their manager Andrew Loog Oldham, the song features a gentle melody and introspective lyrics that reflect on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life. Marianne Faithfull originally recorded the song, but The Rolling Stones’ version became more popular, reaching the top 10 in several countries.
The song’s orchestral arrangement, featuring strings and a harpsichord, adds to its melancholic feel, while Jagger’s vocals are soft and contemplative. The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and acceptance, as the narrator reflects on past mistakes and lost opportunities.
“As Tears Go By” remains a fan favorite and a testament to The Rolling Stones’ ability to deliver heartfelt and introspective songs. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the band’s musical versatility.
8. She’s A Rainbow
“She’s a Rainbow” is a psychedelic pop song by The Rolling Stones, featured on their 1967 album “Their Satanic Majesties Request.” The song is known for its vibrant and colorful musical arrangement, which includes a prominent use of the mellotron, a keyboard instrument that creates orchestral sounds.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “She’s a Rainbow” is a celebration of love and beauty, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of a colorful and enchanting woman. Jagger’s vocals are whimsical and playful, perfectly complementing the song’s whimsical and upbeat melody.
The song’s instrumentation is rich and varied, with a lush orchestral arrangement that includes strings, brass, and woodwinds. The use of the mellotron gives the song a dreamy and ethereal quality, adding to its psychedelic sound.
“She’s a Rainbow” was not released as a single in the UK but was released as a single in the US, where it became a minor hit. Despite its initial commercial performance, the song has since become a fan favorite and is considered one of The Rolling Stones’ standout tracks from their psychedelic era.
9. Winter
“Winter” is a hauntingly beautiful track from The Rolling Stones’ 1973 album “Goats Head Soup.” The song showcases the band’s ability to create atmospheric and introspective music, with lyrics that evoke a sense of melancholy and longing.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Winter” features a sparse and atmospheric arrangement, with acoustic guitars and subtle percussion creating a moody backdrop for Jagger’s emotive vocals. The lyrics paint a picture of a cold and desolate winter landscape, with Jagger lamenting lost love and the passing of time.
The song’s melancholic tone is enhanced by Mick Taylor’s soulful guitar work, which adds a layer of depth and emotion to the track. Despite its somber mood, “Winter” is a testament to The Rolling Stones’ ability to create music that is both introspective and deeply moving.
“Winter” is often overlooked in The Rolling Stones’ catalog but is considered by many fans to be a hidden gem. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a standout track on “Goats Head Soup” and a testament to the band’s musical depth and versatility.
10. Wild Horses
“Wild Horses” is a soulful ballad by The Rolling Stones, featured on their 1971 album “Sticky Fingers.” The song is renowned for its heartfelt lyrics and emotional delivery, showcasing a more tender side of the band’s music.
Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Wild Horses” is a poignant reflection on love, loss, and longing. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and introspection, with Jagger singing about the pain of letting go of someone he loves.
The song features a stripped-down arrangement, with acoustic guitars and a mournful pedal steel guitar giving it a country-inflected sound. Jagger’s vocals are raw and emotional, conveying a sense of heartache and regret.
“Wild Horses” has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved songs, often cited as a highlight of their live performances. Its timeless appeal lies in its universal themes and emotive delivery, making it a standout track in the band’s vast discography.
Samuel Moore 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.
