The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. The band consists of vocalist Mick Jagger, guitarists Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, drummer Charlie Watts, and former members Brian Jones, Mick Taylor, and Bill Wyman.
The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic and enduring rock bands in history, known for their bluesy rock sound, energetic live performances, and enduring appeal. They are often regarded as one of the greatest rock bands of all time, with a career spanning over six decades.
Some of their most famous songs include “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” “Sympathy for the Devil,” and “Gimme Shelter.” The Rolling Stones have sold over 240 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
1. Gimme Shelter
“Gimme Shelter” is a powerful and haunting rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1969 on their album “Let It Bleed.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is known for its intense atmosphere, socially conscious lyrics, and memorable vocal performances.
“Gimme Shelter” opens with a distinctive and foreboding guitar riff played by Keith Richards, setting the tone for the song’s dark and urgent mood. The lyrics, sung primarily by Mick Jagger with backing vocals by Merry Clayton, express themes of violence, turmoil, and a search for refuge in turbulent times. The chorus, “War, children, it’s just a shot away, it’s just a shot away,” reflects the song’s bleak outlook on the state of the world.
Merry Clayton’s powerful vocal performance during the bridge of “Gimme Shelter,” where she belts out the lines “Rape, murder, it’s just a shot away, it’s just a shot away,” adds a haunting and emotional depth to the song. Her vocals complement Jagger’s raw and impassioned delivery, creating a chilling and unforgettable moment in rock music history.
“Gimme Shelter” is considered one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest achievements, showcasing their ability to blend rock, blues, and gospel influences into a song that remains relevant and impactful. Its evocative lyrics and intense musical arrangement have made it a timeless anthem that continues to resonate with listeners, reflecting the turmoil and uncertainty of its era while delivering a powerful message about the need for peace and shelter.
2. Paint It Black
“Paint It, Black” is a distinctive rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1966 as a single and later included on their album “Aftermath.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is notable for its dark and introspective lyrics, innovative use of instruments, and unique Eastern-influenced musical arrangement.
The song opens with a prominent sitar riff played by Brian Jones, which immediately sets “Paint It, Black” apart from other rock songs of the era. The sitar gives the song an exotic and haunting quality, complemented by Charlie Watts’ driving drumbeat and Richards’ distinctive guitar work.
Lyrically, “Paint It, Black” explores themes of grief, loss, and introspection. The narrator expresses a desire to paint everything black as a reflection of their emotional state, symbolizing mourning and despair. The song’s title and lyrics evoke a sense of darkness and turmoil, capturing the intensity of the narrator’s emotional journey.
“Paint It, Black” became a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and receiving critical acclaim for its innovative musical arrangement and evocative lyrics. The song’s enduring popularity has made it one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and recognizable tracks, showcasing their ability to push artistic boundaries and capture the complexities of human emotion through their music.
3. Sympathy for the Devil
“Sympathy for the Devil” is a song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968 on their album “Beggars Banquet.” The song is written from the perspective of the devil, who recounts his role in various historical events and asks for understanding and sympathy.
“Sympathy for the Devil” features a samba rhythm, courtesy of drummer Charlie Watts, and incorporates elements of rock, blues, and psychedelia. The song’s lyrics are known for their clever wordplay and references to historical events, including the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Russian Revolution, and the Kennedy assassinations.
“Sympathy for the Devil” was controversial upon its release due to its subject matter, but it has since become one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic songs. It is often cited as one of the greatest rock songs of all time, praised for its innovative music and thought-provoking lyrics.
4. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is a landmark rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1965 as a single and later included on their album “Out of Our Heads.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is one of the band’s most famous and enduring hits, characterized by its iconic guitar riff, rebellious lyrics, and energetic performance.
The song opens with Keith Richards’ memorable guitar riff, which instantly grabs the listener’s attention with its catchy and repetitive melody. Mick Jagger’s vocal delivery is defiant and playful, expressing frustration with consumer culture and the constant quest for satisfaction. The lyrics capture the dissatisfaction and restlessness of youth during the 1960s, resonating with audiences who identified with the song’s rebellious spirit.
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” became The Rolling Stones’ first major hit in the United States, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying their reputation as one of the leading bands of the British Invasion. The song’s raw energy, memorable riff, and socially relevant lyrics have made it a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated and referenced in popular culture.
The enduring popularity of “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” underscores its status as a quintessential rock anthem, showcasing The Rolling Stones’ ability to capture the zeitgeist of their era while creating music that resonates across generations.
5. You Can’t Always Get What You Want
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is a song by The Rolling Stones, released on their 1969 album “Let It Bleed.” The song features a gospel choir and orchestral arrangement, giving it a grand and anthemic sound.
“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is known for its memorable chorus, which delivers a message of acceptance and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. The song’s lyrics reflect on the complexities of desire and fulfillment, with Mick Jagger singing about the inevitability of disappointment and the importance of perseverance.
Despite its somber theme, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” has a hopeful and uplifting feel, thanks in part to its uplifting choir and optimistic melody. The song has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring hits and is often regarded as a classic of the rock genre.
6. Tumbling Dice
“Tumbling Dice” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1972 on their album “Exile on Main St.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is known for its bluesy groove, soulful vocals, and infectious chorus.
The song features a distinctive guitar riff played by Keith Richards, which sets the upbeat and rollicking tone of “Tumbling Dice.” Mick Jagger’s vocal performance is characterized by its soulful delivery and dynamic range, reflecting the song’s themes of love, luck, and the ups and downs of life.
Lyrically, “Tumbling Dice” explores the uncertainties and unpredictability of relationships and life itself. The chorus, with its catchy refrain of “Tumbling dice, baby, I’m gambling on you,” encapsulates the song’s central metaphor of taking chances and embracing life’s risks.
“Tumbling Dice” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on both the US Billboard Hot 100 and UK Singles Chart. Its infectious rhythm and memorable melody have made it a fan favorite and a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances.
The song’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim have solidified its place as one of The Rolling Stones’ classic tracks, showcasing their ability to blend rock, blues, and soul influences into a timeless and universally resonant piece of music.
7. Jumpin’ Jack Flash
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is a song by The Rolling Stones, released as a single in 1968. The song features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and energetic vocals by Mick Jagger.
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is known for its gritty, bluesy sound and rebellious lyrics, which tell the story of a man named Jack Flash who overcomes adversity and hardship. The song’s chorus, “It’s a gas, gas, gas,” has become a classic rock anthem.
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. It has since become one of The Rolling Stones’ most popular songs and is often included in their live performances.
8. Honky Tonk Women
“Honky Tonk Women” is a classic rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1969 as a single and later included on the compilation album “Through the Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2).” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is known for its infectious groove, witty lyrics, and country-inspired musical elements.
The song opens with a distinctive guitar riff played by Keith Richards, which sets the upbeat and rollicking tone of “Honky Tonk Women.” The riff is complemented by Charlie Watts’ driving drumbeat and Bill Wyman’s steady bassline, creating a lively and danceable rhythm.
Lyrically, “Honky Tonk Women” tells the story of a man’s encounters with various women while traveling, particularly those he meets in honky tonk bars. Mick Jagger’s vocals capture the song’s playful and cheeky spirit, with lyrics that humorously depict the narrator’s experiences with these women.
“Honky Tonk Women” became one of The Rolling Stones’ biggest hits, topping the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its catchy melody, memorable chorus, and infectious energy have made it a staple of the band’s live performances and a perennial favorite among fans.
The song’s blend of rock, country, and blues influences showcases The Rolling Stones’ versatility and their ability to create music that appeals to a wide audience. “Honky Tonk Women” remains a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated for its lively atmosphere and memorable musical arrangement.
9. Start Me Up
“Start Me Up” is a song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1981 on their album “Tattoo You.” The song is known for its distinctive guitar riff, played by Keith Richards, and its energetic, rock-oriented sound.
“Start Me Up” features Mick Jagger’s raw, dynamic vocals and Charlie Watts’ powerful drumming, creating a driving rhythm that is characteristic of The Rolling Stones’ style. The song’s lyrics are suggestive and playful, with Jagger singing about the excitement of a new relationship.
“Start Me Up” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries. It has since become one of The Rolling Stones’ most popular songs and is often included in their live performances.
10. Brown Sugar
“Brown Sugar” is a rock song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1971 as the lead single from their album “Sticky Fingers.” Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is known for its provocative lyrics, bluesy guitar riff, and energetic performance.
The song opens with a powerful and instantly recognizable guitar riff played by Keith Richards, which sets the energetic and gritty tone of “Brown Sugar.” Mick Jagger’s vocals are raw and impassioned, delivering lyrics that touch on themes of slavery, interracial relationships, and lust.
Lyrically, “Brown Sugar” has been controversial due to its depiction of slavery and sexualized imagery. The song’s chorus features a catchy refrain of “Brown sugar, how come you taste so good?” which has become one of its most memorable lines.
Musically, “Brown Sugar” combines elements of rock, blues, and country, showcasing The Rolling Stones’ ability to blend diverse influences into a cohesive and powerful sound. The song’s infectious groove and dynamic arrangement have made it a staple of the band’s live performances and a favorite among fans.
Despite its controversial lyrics, “Brown Sugar” became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its enduring popularity and impact on rock music history have solidified its status as one of The Rolling Stones’ classic and most recognizable songs.