For over 60 years, The Rolling Stones have been one of the most influential and enduring rock bands in the world. From their early days as a blues-influenced group to their evolution into one of the greatest rock and roll bands of all time, their music has inspired generations of fans and musicians alike. With countless hits and iconic performances, it can be hard to narrow down their best songs. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Rolling Stones songs of all time. From the infectious rhythm of “Brown Sugar” to the haunting balladry of “Wild Horses,” we will explore the range of the band’s music and the reasons why these songs have stood the test of time. These songs capture the essence of the band’s unique sound, style, and influence, and continue to resonate with fans old and new. Whether you’re a die-hard Stones fan or a newcomer to their music, this list will take you on a journey through some of the greatest songs in rock and roll history.
1. Shine a Light
The Rolling Stones' classic anthem "Shine a Light" is an exceptional masterpiece that will remain iconic for generations to come. The song encompasses the band's signature sound and highlights their musical talents. Performed live in 1969, its positive vibe, soulful rhythm, and Mick Jagger's electrifying voice tend to leave audiences spellbound.
As the title suggests, "Shine a Light" depicts shedding light on the world and bringing positivity into it. The lyrics evoke hope and remind listeners to keep pushing through tough times; its upbeat tempo makes it impossible not to dance along. The tight guitar solos alongside the steady drumbeat add more charm to the song.
Interestingly, the song features guest singer-songwriter Bonnie Raitt, whose harmonies complement Mick Jagger's voice. Her background vocals take the already-great track to even greater heights.
Pro tip: Listen to this gem with your eyes closed as you absorb every note of brilliance emanating from it. You'll see why it's one of The Rolling Stones' finest tunes of all time.
Get ready to shake your hips and sing along, because this song will have you saying "Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo" all day long.
2. Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo
This track, known as "Heartbreaker," was composed by the band's guitarist, Keith Richards. The song has a distinctive riff and intricate instrumentation. With its funky bass lines and catchy melody, it became one of The Rolling Stones' most memorable hits. It features prominently on their album "Goats Head Soup" and is often included in their live performances. Fans admire how this song epitomizes the band's style and creativity.
Time may be on their side, but The Rolling Stones still manage to rock harder than a boulder in a hurricane.
3. Time Is on My Side
One of the best songs from The Rolling Stones is about time. This classic hit has a soulful melody and lyrics that express the idea that time can be our friend, not just an enemy. 'Time Is on My Side' features Mick Jagger’s signature vocals and Keith Richards’ memorable guitar riffs. The song is a testament to the band's musical talent and demonstrates their ability to create timeless classics.
The Rolling Stones were able to craft a song that taps into a fundamental truth about life: that we all have a limited amount of time to achieve our goals. The lyrics offer a message of optimism, even in challenging times – "you'll come running back, you'll come running back to me." The catchy chorus makes for a confident anthem of self-assuredness.
This song was released in 1964 as one of the band's biggest hits and remains relevant today, with its timeless message about taking advantage of every moment you have. In addition, the famous introduction featuring brass and keyboards adds depth and character to the track.
For anyone looking for inspiration or motivation to seize the day, 'Time Is on My Side' is an ideal choice. Listening to this tune can help you develop your willpower and remind you of all the opportunities available in life that are waiting for you. As such, it ranks high among The Rolling Stones' most outstanding songs.
Even wild horses couldn't drag me away from this stunning Rolling Stones classic.
4. Wild Horses
This piece explores the top ten Rolling Stones songs of all time, and one of the tracks that rank high is a hauntingly beautiful track about love and loss. Its introduction with gentle acoustic guitar strings quickly converges into an intense and heartfelt chorus, making it worth a listen. The song vividly portrays the pain of letting go, and listening to it can tug at one's heartstrings.
Interestingly, "4. Wild Horses" was written in reference to throbbing drug addiction that had plagued Keith Richard's relationship with Anita Pallenberg, while Mick Jagger interprets the lyrics in his own way as he speaks of losing Brian Jones. Nonetheless, this song has carved a place for itself among the Stones' legendary ballads and remains an iconic hit.
With 'Tumbling Dice', The Rolling Stones prove that even when they're down on their luck, they can still make a catchy tune that'll have you shaking your hips and forgetting about your troubles.
5. Tumbling Dice
This iconic track by the Rolling Stones is a true classic. It combines Keith Richards' signature guitar riffs with Mick Jagger's sharp lyrics and distinctive vocals. The song's infectious melody and catchy chorus make it an instant crowd pleaser at concerts. "Tumbling Dice" was released in 1972 as part of the album "Exile on Main St." and remains one of the band's most popular songs to this day.
The song is known for its unique blend of blues, rock, and country music, which perfectly captures the sound of the early 70s. The lyrics tell a story about gambling, love, and life on the road, all conveyed in Jagger's trademark style. The song's memorable chorus will have you singing along in no time.
Interestingly, the song was almost titled "Good Time Women" but was changed at the last moment. It was also originally set to be included in their previous album but ultimately made its way onto "Exile on Main St." Tumbling Dice remains one of The Rolling Stones' most beloved tracks and an all-time fan favorite.
Who needs a personal bodyguard when you've got 'Street Fighting Man' on your playlist?
6. Street Fighting Man
This notable song, featured on The Rolling Stones’ album “Beggars Banquet,” is a powerful and timeless political anthem that highlights the struggle for social justice. With its electrifying rhythm, dynamic guitar riffs and Mick Jagger’s commanding vocals, the song has become an iconic representation of the anti-establishment sentiment of the late 1960s. The lyrics speak to the frustration and anger felt by young people at that time who were calling for change and reform in society. It’s a raw and provocative masterpiece that will forever be remembered as one of the band’s greatest creations.
The message of "Street Fighting Man" remains as relevant today as it was in its heyday. The track's energy sets a tone that speaks to anyone looking for answers in difficult times. Its influence on music, culture, politics and social movements is undeniable, with numerous artists covering or referencing it since its release in 1968. The Rolling Stones’ ability to convey such potent themes through their music has solidified them as icons of rock ‘n’ roll.
What makes this song stand out among The Rolling Stones' other classics is its powerful simplicity – it has a raw quality that transmits a sense of urgency to listeners, making them understand what it felt like to be young and frustrated during the politically tumultuous era it emerged from.
Don't miss out on experiencing this timeless classic – add "Street Fighting Man" to your playlist today!
Angie is the kind of song that makes you wanna curl up in a ball and cry, or dance drunkenly at a wedding – either way, it's a crowd-pleaser.
7. Angie
One of the greatest tracks made by The Rolling Stones is a song that deals more with the subject matter than presentation. This track showcases a more vulnerable side to Mick Jagger's vocal delivery as he sings about lost love. The song, known as 'The Plum Pudding', also takes on a sombre mood with the addition of strings giving it an uncharacteristically soft feel for a Stones track.
Continuing to attract fans, this ballad still gets airplay on various radio stations worldwide. Many people today might not know its title but recognize the lyrics "Angie, Angie, when will those clouds all disappear?" This incongruity may come from its rarity among their songs as being one where acoustic guitars and piano drive it, versus electric guitar and drums. Its origin lies in Keith Richards' work on the flamenco guitar and his ability to create beautiful chord progressions.
This melancholy tune would be perfect for a rainy day or to set an evening's romantic mood. Additionally, 'The Plum Pudding' is an ideal track if you want to explore the sentimental side of The Rolling Stones' music without being overwhelmed by upbeat tunes.
Jumpin' Jack Flash may be a gas, gas, gas, but it's also one hell of a reason to break out your air guitar.
8. Jumpin’ Jack Flash
This iconic song of the Rolling Stones, known as 'The Flash With the Jumping' is an all-time favorite for the listeners. 'Jumpin’ Jack Flash', released in 1968, portrays Mick Jagger's flamboyant vocals and powerful lyrics emphasizing daringness and recklessness. The song was initially developed as a response to Keith Richards tuning his guitar, which Jagger interpreted as 'jumping jack flash' on a cassette recorder. The song speaks about a man who faces hardships but finds courage through his experiences.
The song reflects the revolutionary evolution of rock music by blending the sounds of blues and rock-infused with poetry. Its catchy melody, laced with electric guitar riffs and a pounding drum beat, made it an instant hit during concerts. It peaked number three in US charts and became one of their signature tunes.
It is said that jumping jack flash refers to a supernatural entity, or a sort of magic machinery that can bypass troubles by roaming through them. The song includes a cacophony of metaphors such as "crossfire hurricane," "raised in a lion's den," and "dead-heat summer on the backseat of my time."
Missing out on listening to this timeless classic would be doing oneself a great disservice. You can Hear it now on any music streaming platforms to get lost in its symphony. Don't be left behind, let 'Jumpin’ Jack Flash' set your spirits soaring high!
If Keith Richards' guitar riffs were a woman, she'd be Honky Tonk Women – sassy, seductive, and impossible to resist.
9. Honky Tonk Women
This song by The Rolling Stones, which falls in the ninth position on our list of the 10 best songs of all time, is a classic and was released in 1969. 'Honky Tonk Women' is a mix of country and rock music that showcases Mick Jagger's dynamic vocals and Keith Richards' unique guitar riffs. The upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics perfectly capture the party spirit of the 1960s.
As this iconic song continues to be played across generations, it remains a testament to the enduring legacy of The Rolling Stones. Its energy and playful tone have made it a staple at parties and clubs across the world. 'Honky Tonk Women' has also been covered by numerous other artists over the years, adding to its lasting popularity.
What sets this song apart from others on the list are its musical elements like Charlie Watts' powerful drumming and Bill Wyman's smooth bassline. These aspects blend incredibly well with Jagger's vocal performance, creating an unforgettable listening experience that can ignite any party or concert.
Interestingly, 'Honky Tonk Women' was originally recorded during sessions for another song called "Country Honk." However, when Jagger improvised some lyrics while waiting for Watts to arrive, they realised that there was something special about these new words that warranted their own song. And so '‘Honky Tonk Women' was born' – ironically one of their most successful hits!
Even the Rolling Stones can’t get everything they want, but at least they got this song right.
10. You Can’t Always Get What You Want
This Rolling Stones classic showcases the band's ability to combine rock with gospel-sounding strings. Its message is that life doesn't always turn out the way we plan, but we shouldn't give up trying. The song was released in 1969 and quickly became a hit, displaying Mick Jagger's dynamic vocals and Keith Richards' powerful guitar riffs. Its timeless lyrics still resonate today.
Through its unique music style, 'You Can't Always Get What You Want' encourages us not to give up striving for our dreams, even when faced with setbacks. The song's upbeat melody contrasts with its lyrics, making it both humorous and thought-provoking. Alongside other iconic tracks, it catapulted the Rolling Stones to unparalleled fame.
Interestingly, despite being such an explosive song that exudes energy and passion, 'You Can't Always Get What You Want' was born from a fateful morning visit guitarist Keith Richards paid to his bandmate Mick Jagger: This classic was said to have originated as acoustic guitar demo tape played by Richards remotely outside Mick Jagger's house on Primrose Hill in London.
Pro Tip: While this hit may seem like simple rock n roll meets soulful sound in the beginning stanzas of its first verse towards the end section showcases a choir which features English gospel vocalist Marsha Hunt – adding a spiritual essence towards an even weightier impact towards its message on life and treasure hunting!
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.
