Few artists have left as indelible a mark on music history as Mick Jagger, the electrifying frontman of The Rolling Stones. With his unmistakable voice, swaggering stage presence, and boundless energy, Jagger has been the heartbeat of rock ‘n’ roll for over six decades. Whether crooning soulful ballads, belting out rebellious anthems, or delivering blues-soaked rock classics, Mick Jagger’s songs have transcended generations, inspiring millions and cementing his legacy as one of music’s greatest icons.
But what are the crown jewels in this rock legend’s repertoire? In this article, we’re diving deep into the top 10 most popular Mick Jagger songs of all time. From timeless Rolling Stones hits to his ambitious solo ventures, these tracks capture the essence of an artist who never stopped pushing boundaries. Expect unforgettable hooks, raw emotion, and that signature Jagger charisma that keeps fans coming back for more.
Whether you’re a lifelong Stones fan or new to the world of rock, this list is your gateway to some of the most iconic music ever created. So, turn up the volume, let loose, and join us as we celebrate the unforgettable songs that made Mick Jagger a global sensation!
1. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction – 1965
Widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs ever created, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” was the song that propelled The Rolling Stones to superstardom. Released in 1965, this anthem of youthful rebellion and frustration resonated deeply with the generation that felt disillusioned by consumerism and the status quo. The song’s opening riff, crafted by Keith Richards, is one of the most instantly recognizable guitar lines in rock history, cementing its place as a classic. Mick Jagger’s raw, magnetic vocals convey the frustration that the song’s lyrics so powerfully describe. The defiance in his voice, paired with the urgent energy of the band, creates an electrifying sound that still feels fresh decades after its release. The themes of dissatisfaction with modern life, consumer culture, and the superficiality of societal expectations struck a chord with listeners at the time and have only grown more relevant as time goes on. The track was revolutionary, introducing a raw, unapologetic style to mainstream rock, and it quickly became a rallying cry for young people everywhere. The song’s success was undeniable; it became an international hit and remains one of the most significant anthems of the 1960s. Its influence can be heard in countless songs that followed, making “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” not just a signature track for The Rolling Stones but also an essential piece of rock history. The track’s simple yet profound message and unforgettable riff continue to make it a cornerstone of The Rolling Stones’ legacy, showcasing their ability to capture the zeitgeist and transform it into something timeless.
2. Paint It Black – 1966
Released in 1966, “Paint It Black” is one of The Rolling Stones’ darkest and most haunting songs. The track’s unsettling mood is amplified by the inclusion of the sitar, an instrument that was rare in Western rock music at the time, helping to create a blend of Eastern and Western influences that made the song feel both fresh and unique. Mick Jagger’s vocal performance is filled with raw emotion as he sings about deep grief and an overwhelming sense of loss. His voice is hauntingly vulnerable, reflecting the torment and sorrow expressed in the lyrics. The song’s eerie, almost hypnotic melody is further accentuated by the eerie presence of the sitar, which gives the song an air of mystery and depth. The mix of traditional rock elements with Indian instrumentation and themes of despair and mourning made “Paint It Black” a groundbreaking song that broke new ground for the band. Its lyrics speak to a deep desire to escape the painful emotions of loss, with the protagonist wanting to “paint it all black” as a way of shutting out the world. The track’s fusion of musical styles and its powerful, haunting delivery by Jagger made it a standout hit that solidified The Rolling Stones as not only one of the greatest rock bands of their time but also as musical innovators. “Paint It Black” became a major chart success and continues to be one of the band’s most beloved songs, its themes of sorrow and melancholy continuing to resonate with listeners.
3. Angie – 1973
“Angie” is one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved ballads, released in 1973 as part of the Goats Head Soup album. This tender, emotional track is a departure from the band’s usual high-energy rock anthems, showcasing their softer, more vulnerable side. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song tells the heartbreaking story of a love that has faded and the painful process of letting go. Jagger’s soulful, heartfelt vocals bring a deep sense of sadness and longing to the song, while Richards’ delicate acoustic guitar playing complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the song’s emotional depth to take center stage. “Angie” stands out for its introspective nature, capturing the universal pain of a relationship ending. Its understated beauty and raw honesty make it an enduring classic. The song’s poignant lyrics, paired with the aching melody, create an atmosphere of melancholy and vulnerability, making it one of the band’s most emotionally resonant songs. It became a huge hit, reaching number one on the charts, and has remained a fan favorite ever since. Despite the emotional themes, the song’s beauty lies in its simplicity, with each element—the vocals, guitar, and subtle orchestral arrangements—working in harmony to evoke a deep sense of longing and sorrow. “Angie” is often cited as one of the band’s greatest ballads, showcasing their ability to balance the raw energy of rock with the emotional depth of a heartfelt love song.
4. Sympathy for the Devil – 1968
“Sympathy for the Devil,” released in 1968, is one of The Rolling Stones’ most daring and provocative songs. Inspired by literature and historical events, the track tells the story of the devil’s involvement in the darkest moments of humanity, from war to suffering. Jagger’s performance is hypnotic, his sultry, almost sinister delivery giving the song a captivating energy. The song’s blend of rock with samba rhythms creates a unique and unforgettable sound, with the percussion and horn section adding to the track’s exotic feel. The song’s unconventional structure, with its spoken-word verses and anthemic chorus, challenges traditional rock songwriting and presents a bold statement on the nature of human suffering and evil. Its lyrics are provocative, exploring themes of guilt, responsibility, and the complexity of evil, prompting listeners to reflect on the darker aspects of human history. The Rolling Stones’ ability to tackle such a heavy subject matter with a groove-driven, samba-inspired rhythm is a testament to their musical versatility. The track was controversial at the time of its release, with some critics questioning the band’s intentions and the subject matter of the song. However, it quickly became one of their most iconic songs, with its catchy chorus and thought-provoking lyrics resonating with audiences. “Sympathy for the Devil” is one of The Rolling Stones’ most ambitious tracks, blending rock, jazz, and world music influences to create a song that feels as timeless as it is daring. It remains a cornerstone of their catalog, a bold exploration of humanity’s darker nature.
5. Gimme Shelter – 1969
Released in 1969, “Gimme Shelter” is one of The Rolling Stones’ most haunting and politically charged songs. The track perfectly captures the tumult and unrest of the era, reflecting the turmoil of the late 1960s. The song begins with a striking, atmospheric guitar riff from Keith Richards that immediately sets the tone, leading into Mick Jagger’s intense, almost desperate vocals. The lyrics are filled with a sense of urgency and fear, touching on themes of violence, war, and the search for refuge. The song’s dark and ominous mood is further heightened by the powerful backing vocals of Merry Clayton, whose voice provides an emotional counterpoint to Jagger’s. Clayton’s passionate performance is a standout moment in the song, her powerful delivery of the line “Rape, murder! It’s just a shot away” creating a chilling, unforgettable moment. “Gimme Shelter” is not only a reflection of its time but also a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever felt the need to escape from the chaos and destruction of the world. The track’s driving rhythm, intense vocals, and gritty guitar riffs create a sense of urgency that perfectly mirrors the turbulent social and political landscape of the late ’60s. “Gimme Shelter” was an immediate hit, and its haunting energy and powerful message have made it a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances. The song continues to resonate with listeners, its themes of fear, violence, and the search for solace remaining just as relevant today as they were in 1969.
6. Start Me Up – 1981
Released in 1981, “Start Me Up” is a high-energy, electrifying track that perfectly embodies the spirit of rock and roll. With its infectious guitar riff, catchy chorus, and Mick Jagger’s dynamic vocals, the song became an instant classic. It marked a return to the band’s roots after their more experimental albums in the late ’70s, capturing the raw energy and excitement that made them famous. The track’s driving rhythm and upbeat energy are a perfect reflection of the band’s desire to get back to the basics of rock and roll. Keith Richards’ iconic guitar riff is the centerpiece of the song, instantly recognizable and impossible to forget. Jagger’s vocal performance is full of fire, delivering the song’s simple, yet effective, message about the thrill of being alive and ready to take on the world. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the band’s signature songs. “Start Me Up” became a crowd favorite, a staple in their live performances, and it remains one of the most enduring tracks in The Rolling Stones’ catalog. Its upbeat energy and infectious riff continue to make it a timeless anthem, and it has been used in countless films, commercials, and sporting events, further cementing its status as one of rock music’s most iconic songs. “Start Me Up” is the epitome of The Rolling Stones’ ability to create high-octane, feel-good rock anthems that are impossible to resist.
7. Miss You – 1978
Released in 1978, “Miss You” marked a bold departure from The Rolling Stones’ traditional rock sound. The song’s disco-infused groove was a surprising shift for the band, but it showcased their willingness to experiment with new musical styles. Mick Jagger’s sultry, almost seductive vocal delivery is one of the highlights of the track, adding an air of sensuality to the song’s lyrics about longing and desire. The track’s funky bassline, combined with the danceable rhythm, made “Miss You” an instant hit in both the rock and disco worlds. The song’s fusion of rock, soul, and disco elements was a testament to the band’s versatility and ability to adapt to changing musical trends. The track was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the band’s most memorable hits from the late ’70s. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus made it a dancefloor favorite, and its unique sound continues to make it one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved tracks. “Miss You” has stood the test of time, its combination of rock and disco still feeling fresh and innovative decades after its release. The song’s success proved that The Rolling Stones were more than just rock icons—they were also masters of musical reinvention, constantly evolving while maintaining their signature style.
8. Wild Horses – 1971
“Wild Horses,” released in 1971, is one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved and emotionally charged songs. The track’s gentle, almost ethereal melody contrasts with the raw emotion conveyed in Mick Jagger’s vocal performance. The song’s lyrics speak to themes of longing, love, and the difficulty of holding onto something precious. The simple, stripped-down arrangement, with its acoustic guitar and subtle strings, allows the emotional depth of the song to take center stage. The song’s vulnerability is palpable, with Jagger’s delivery capturing the sadness of having to let go of something or someone you deeply care about. “Wild Horses” is a timeless classic that has resonated with listeners for decades, its emotional intensity and simplicity making it one of the band’s most enduring ballads. The song’s powerful imagery, particularly in lines like “Wild horses couldn’t drag me away,” evokes a deep sense of longing and devotion. “Wild Horses” is often considered one of The Rolling Stones’ most beautiful songs, and its heartfelt lyrics have made it a fan favorite. It stands as a testament to the band’s ability to blend rock with introspective, emotionally charged ballads, showcasing a softer, more vulnerable side to their music. The track continues to be a highlight of The Rolling Stones’ catalog, and its emotional resonance makes it a song that listeners return to time and time again.
9. Brown Sugar – 1971
“Brown Sugar,” released in 1971, is one of The Rolling Stones’ most electrifying and provocative songs. The track’s high-energy beat, funky guitar riff, and Jagger’s electrifying performance make it a standout in their catalog. The song’s lyrics, however, sparked controversy upon its release due to their provocative content and exploration of themes related to race and history. Despite the controversy, the song became a major hit, topping the charts worldwide. “Brown Sugar” blends rock, blues, and funk to create a rhythmically charged track that became an instant classic. Keith Richards’ guitar work is fierce, with a driving, almost percussive quality that propels the song forward, while Jagger’s vocal delivery adds an element of urgency and intensity. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious groove make it a crowd favorite, and its controversial lyrics continue to spark conversation to this day. Despite the challenging themes, “Brown Sugar” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic songs, representing the band’s ability to tackle complex topics with their signature sound and energy. The song’s success was undeniable, and it remains a staple of The Rolling Stones’ live performances. Its blend of rock, blues, and funk, along with its provocative lyrics, made it one of the band’s most memorable hits.
10. You Can’t Always Get What You Want – 1969
Released in 1969, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is one of The Rolling Stones’ most anthemic and uplifting songs. The track opens with a slow, gospel-like intro, featuring the soaring harmonies of the London Bach Choir, setting the tone for a song that blends rock with deep spiritual and philosophical themes. Mick Jagger’s reflective vocals, paired with the choir’s powerful harmonies, create a sense of yearning and resilience. The song’s lyrics, which speak to the idea of accepting life’s disappointments and understanding that we don’t always get what we desire, resonate deeply with listeners. The track’s message of acceptance and resilience is timeless, making it an anthem for anyone who has ever faced hardship or faced unfulfilled desires. The song’s message is one of hope and perseverance, urging listeners to find peace even in the face of life’s uncertainties. “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved tracks, its message of resilience and acceptance continuing to inspire audiences around the world. The song’s combination of rock, gospel, and folk influences makes it a unique and powerful piece in the band’s catalog. Its enduring popularity, both as a live performance staple and a cultural touchstone, is a testament to its universal message and the power of The Rolling Stones’ music to connect with listeners on a deep, emotional level.
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.
