Mick Jagger—his name alone pulses with the energy of rock history. As the indomitable frontman of The Rolling Stones, Jagger has captivated audiences for over six decades with his electrifying stage presence, unmistakable voice, and rebellious spirit. But beyond his larger-than-life persona, Mick is the mastermind behind some of the most iconic rock anthems ever created. Whether he’s belting out bluesy ballads or delivering hard-hitting rock classics, his music resonates across generations, embodying the raw power and swagger of rock ‘n’ roll.
In this article, we’re diving deep into the top 10 most popular Mick Jagger songs of all time—tracks that have defined his legacy, pushed boundaries, and cemented his place as one of the greatest rock icons in history. From timeless Rolling Stones hits to his dynamic solo ventures, each song on this list showcases the unique charisma and genius that keeps Jagger at the forefront of music. So, crank up the volume, and let’s countdown the unforgettable tracks that have kept Mick Jagger’s voice echoing through the ages!
1. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction (1965)
Released in 1965, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is often regarded as one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic songs, and for good reason. The song’s gritty, rebellious spirit encapsulates the restless energy of the 1960s and immediately resonated with a generation that felt alienated by societal pressures. Keith Richards’ now legendary guitar riff, unmistakable in its rawness, is the driving force of the track, powering the song forward with a sense of urgency and frustration. Mick Jagger’s vocals are dripping with dissatisfaction, his voice full of tension as he sings about the emptiness of modern life—unfulfilled promises and consumerism that fail to provide the satisfaction people crave. This frustration is perfectly encapsulated in the famous refrain, “I can’t get no, oh no no no,” which became an anthem for anyone feeling trapped by the expectations placed upon them.
The impact of “Satisfaction” was immediate, propelling The Rolling Stones into international superstardom. It became a chart-topping hit and a cultural milestone, striking a chord not just with rock fans, but with anyone who had ever felt misunderstood or confined by society. The song’s aggressive energy and dissonant, distorted guitar sounds broke the mold of what mainstream pop music could be at the time, helping to solidify The Rolling Stones as leaders of the rock ‘n’ roll revolution. Today, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” remains a quintessential rock anthem, its themes of frustration and rebellion still relevant and its musical influence lasting through generations of musicians and fans alike.
2. Sympathy for the Devil (1968)
“Sympathy for the Devil,” released in 1968 on Beggars Banquet, is a song that demonstrates The Rolling Stones’ ability to push the boundaries of rock music and dive into deep philosophical themes. Written from the perspective of the devil himself, the song takes listeners on a dark, historical journey through mankind’s worst atrocities. With its infectious samba rhythm, the track is unsettlingly upbeat, which contrasts sharply with the menacing narrative Jagger weaves with his sinister vocals. From the very first line, “Please allow me to introduce myself,” the devil’s persona is established, drawing listeners in with a chilling, almost playful tone.
The song is not just about the devil’s influence in world history, but also about the complexity of human nature and the blurry lines between good and evil. Jagger’s lyrics offer a commentary on the horrors of war, revolution, and human suffering, all while challenging listeners to confront their own complicity in these events. Upon its release, “Sympathy for the Devil” caused controversy due to its provocative subject matter, but over time, it became a cornerstone of The Rolling Stones’ catalog, praised for its boldness and philosophical depth. The track remains a staple of the band’s live performances, with Jagger’s commanding vocal delivery ensuring its continued impact as one of the most daring and thought-provoking songs in rock history.
3. Gimme Shelter (1969)
Released in 1969 on Let It Bleed, “Gimme Shelter” stands as one of The Rolling Stones’ most urgent and apocalyptic songs, capturing the fear, anger, and disillusionment of the late ’60s. The track opens with a haunting guitar riff, setting the stage for a storm of sound and emotion that perfectly mirrors the political and social unrest of the time. Jagger’s vocals are urgent and filled with a sense of impending doom, warning of the destructive forces at work in the world. The song is a powerful reflection on the chaos of the era, with lines like “War, children, it’s just a shot away” acting as a chilling reminder of the fragility of peace and the looming threat of violence.
The track’s urgency is heightened by the unforgettable backing vocals of Merry Clayton, whose impassioned wail on the chorus (“Rape, murder! It’s just a shot away!”) adds a layer of intensity and raw emotion to the song. This collaboration between Jagger and Clayton captures the sense of collective desperation that defined the period. The song’s themes of war, destruction, and the search for refuge are timeless, and “Gimme Shelter” continues to resonate with listeners across generations. As one of rock’s most powerful anti-war anthems, “Gimme Shelter” not only showcases The Rolling Stones’ ability to reflect the world around them, but also solidifies their place as cultural commentators of their time.
4. Angie (1973)
“Angie,” released in 1973 as part of Goats Head Soup, is a stark departure from the more aggressive, rock-driven sound that The Rolling Stones were known for. Instead, it’s a soft, melancholic ballad that shows a more vulnerable side of Mick Jagger, one that contrasts sharply with his usual swagger and bravado. The song is a haunting reflection on lost love, with Jagger’s voice full of regret and longing as he sings about the end of a relationship. The delicate acoustic guitar accompaniment creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing Jagger’s emotions to take center stage as he delivers one of his most heartfelt performances.
Lyrically, “Angie” conveys a sense of longing and melancholy, with Jagger pleading for understanding as he reflects on the pain of separation. The simplicity of the song’s arrangement—just acoustic guitars and light piano—serves to highlight the raw emotion in Jagger’s voice, and the melody carries a bittersweet quality that has captivated listeners since its release. “Angie” became a global hit, reaching number one in several countries, and remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved ballads. It’s a song that showcases Jagger’s versatility as a performer, demonstrating that even in the softer, more reflective moments, The Rolling Stones can create timeless music that speaks to the heart of the listener.
5. Start Me Up (1981)
Released in 1981 on Tattoo You, “Start Me Up” is one of The Rolling Stones’ most energetic and iconic tracks, marking a moment of rejuvenation for the band as they entered the 1980s. The song kicks off with a sharp, immediately recognizable guitar riff from Keith Richards that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Originally written as a reggae song, “Start Me Up” evolved into a fast-paced, guitar-driven anthem that perfectly captures the energy and exuberance of the Stones’ ’80s resurgence. Jagger’s vocals are playful and full of swagger, adding to the infectious energy of the track. His chant of “You make a grown man cry” in the chorus, combined with the relentless rhythm, gives the song a sense of fun and irrepressible confidence.
“Start Me Up” became a worldwide hit, reaching the top of the charts and becoming a staple of the band’s live performances. Its upbeat, stadium-ready vibe made it an instant crowd favorite, and the track’s success marked the beginning of a new era for The Rolling Stones. The song’s themes of desire and unrelenting energy are perfectly encapsulated in its driving rhythm and infectious chorus, making it one of the band’s most enduring hits. Even today, “Start Me Up” remains a classic rock anthem, its timeless appeal showing no signs of fading, and it continues to ignite crowds with its electrifying energy at every live performance.
6. Miss You (1978)
“Miss You,” released in 1978 on Some Girls, is a song that represents a surprising but successful departure from The Rolling Stones’ traditional sound. While the band had always experimented with different musical styles, “Miss You” marked their foray into disco, with its groovy bassline, steady beat, and danceable rhythm. The song’s upbeat tempo is a contrast to its lyrics, which convey feelings of longing and heartbreak. Jagger’s vocal delivery is filled with yearning, as he sings about missing a lover, yet the rhythm keeps the track moving in a more upbeat direction, creating an interesting juxtaposition between emotion and energy.
“Miss You” was an unexpected commercial success, topping the charts and introducing The Rolling Stones to a new generation of listeners. Its blend of disco and rock elements showcased the band’s ability to adapt to changing musical trends while still maintaining their signature sound. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus helped it become a club hit and made it one of The Rolling Stones’ most memorable tracks of the late ’70s. It remains a fan favorite, and its legacy continues, demonstrating that even in moments of reinvention, the band’s ability to connect with their audience has always been one of their greatest strengths.
7. Brown Sugar (1971)
“Brown Sugar,” released in 1971 as part of Sticky Fingers, is one of The Rolling Stones’ most controversial yet undeniably powerful songs. From its opening riff, played by Keith Richards, the track grabs your attention with its raw, untamed energy and instantly sets the tone for the rest of the song. The lyrics are provocative and gritty, addressing themes of race, sexuality, and history in a way that was shocking to many at the time. Jagger’s vocals are full of swagger and attitude, his delivery adding to the song’s rebellious edge. The track’s rock ‘n’ roll energy is infectious, and its bluesy guitar riffs are complemented by a driving rhythm that makes it a quintessential Stones track.
Despite its controversial subject matter, “Brown Sugar” became an instant hit, reaching number one on the charts and becoming one of the band’s most enduring songs. It remains a staple of their live shows, and its combination of provocative lyrics and unforgettable musical hooks ensures that it will continue to be remembered as one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic tracks. “Brown Sugar” is a perfect example of the band’s ability to combine rock energy with a sense of daring, making it a defining moment in their career.
8. Paint It Black (1966)
“Paint It Black,” released in 1966, is one of The Rolling Stones’ most unique and haunting songs. The track stands out not only because of its dark, brooding lyrics, but also for its innovative use of the sitar, an instrument that was beginning to influence Western rock music. The song’s exotic, Eastern-inspired melody adds an eerie and psychedelic quality to the track, setting it apart from much of the music of its time. Jagger’s vocals are filled with anguish as he sings about a man consumed by grief and despair, searching for a way to cope with loss and heartbreak.
Lyrically, “Paint It Black” delves into themes of darkness, death, and longing, as the protagonist struggles to move past the death of a loved one. The song’s somber mood is reinforced by the driving, hypnotic rhythm and the sitar’s mournful tone. When it was released, “Paint It Black” became a major international hit, reaching number one on the charts in the United States. Its haunting atmosphere and unique blend of rock and Indian influences have made it a standout track in The Rolling Stones’ catalog, and it remains one of their most enduring songs.
9. Beast of Burden (1978)
Released in 1978 as part of Some Girls, “Beast of Burden” is a soulful, bluesy track that shows a more vulnerable side of Mick Jagger and The Rolling Stones. Unlike some of their more aggressive rock anthems, “Beast of Burden” is a slow, aching plea for love and understanding. Jagger’s smooth, tender vocals convey a deep sense of yearning as he sings about the burdens of life and love. The song’s mid-tempo groove and rich, bluesy instrumentation give it a laid-back yet emotionally charged feel, making it one of the more introspective tracks in the band’s catalog.
Lyrically, “Beast of Burden” is about the emotional weight that one carries in a relationship and the desire for reassurance and support. It’s a powerful song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the strain of trying to keep things together. “Beast of Burden” became a fan favorite and remains one of the highlights of Some Girls. Its blend of vulnerability and soulfulness adds a different layer to The Rolling Stones’ extensive body of work, and it continues to be a staple of their live performances.
10. Dancing in the Street (with David Bowie) (1985)
In 1985, Mick Jagger joined forces with David Bowie for a raucous, high-energy cover of Martha and the Vandellas’ classic “Dancing in the Street.” Originally recorded in 1964, this version was released as part of the Live Aid campaign, which aimed to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. The collaboration between Jagger and Bowie is electric, their chemistry palpable as they trade lines and harmonize on the infectious chorus. Their voices complement each other perfectly, creating a dynamic that elevated the track beyond its original roots.
The 1985 version of “Dancing in the Street” transforms the Motown classic into a vibrant anthem for change, with Jagger and Bowie urging people to unite and come together through the power of music and celebration. The upbeat, infectious rhythm of the track, combined with the exuberant performances from both singers, turned it into an instant hit. The song became an anthem of hope and solidarity, helping raise millions of dollars for famine relief. The energy and spirit of the performance have ensured its lasting appeal, and the song remains a testament to the power of music to bring people together for a good cause.
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.
