Mick Jagger, the electrifying frontman of The Rolling Stones, is a rock ‘n’ roll icon whose voice, swagger, and stage presence have captivated audiences for over six decades. With his unmistakable charisma and unparalleled energy, Jagger has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest performers in music history. But beyond his legendary status, it’s the songs—those timeless anthems—that truly define his artistry. From gritty blues to explosive rock, Mick Jagger has delivered a catalog of unforgettable hits that transcend generations.
In this article, we celebrate the top 10 most popular Mick Jagger songs of all time. These tracks showcase not just his vocal prowess but also his ability to tell stories, evoke emotions, and ignite the spirit of rebellion. Whether it’s the raw intensity of a rock anthem or the soulful vulnerability of a ballad, Jagger’s music resonates with fans worldwide. Get ready to dive into a playlist of classics that have stood the test of time, defined eras, and inspired countless artists. So turn up the volume, let the rhythm take over, and join us as we explore the songs that cemented Mick Jagger’s place in the pantheon of rock legends!
1. Sympathy for the Devil (1968)
“Sympathy for the Devil” is one of the Rolling Stones’ boldest and most intriguing works. Released on Beggars Banquet, this track introduces listeners to a chillingly suave narrator—Satan himself—as he walks us through some of history’s darkest moments, from the crucifixion of Christ to the horrors of World War II. With its hypnotic samba rhythm, punctuated by hand percussion and piano, the song moves with a seductive groove that contrasts powerfully with its unsettling subject matter. Mick Jagger delivers the lyrics with a knowing, almost playful menace, making listeners both uncomfortable and fascinated. The band’s musicianship here is razor-sharp: Keith Richards’ guitar solo adds tension and flair, while Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman hold down a rhythm that simmers and builds. “Sympathy for the Devil” is not just a song—it’s a narrative, a commentary, and a challenge to the listener to reflect on the evil done in the name of humanity. It caused controversy upon release but has since become a cornerstone of the Stones’ catalog. Decades later, its mix of style, substance, and swagger still captivates, making it one of the most enduring songs in rock history.
2. Paint It Black (1966)
“Paint It Black” stands as one of the Rolling Stones’ most haunting and unforgettable tracks. Released on the Aftermath album in 1966, the song signaled a bold experimentation in sound, thanks in part to Brian Jones’ use of the sitar, which gives it a distinct Eastern flavor. The opening riff is instantly recognizable, setting a dark and ominous tone that perfectly matches the song’s themes of grief and emotional emptiness. Mick Jagger’s vocals are filled with anguish, as he sings of seeing the world through a lens of mourning and despair, wishing to “paint it all black” to match his inner sorrow. The song’s driving rhythm and dramatic flair were groundbreaking for the time, capturing the sense of alienation and disillusionment that many young people felt during the 1960s. Lyrically, it reflects a soul in turmoil, dealing with personal loss and existential dread. Its emotional weight, innovative sound, and raw intensity helped define the darker edge of the British Invasion. Over the years, “Paint It Black” has remained a fan favorite and a frequent feature in film soundtracks and live performances, proving its lasting power as both a musical and emotional statement.
3. Angie (1973)
“Angie” is a heartfelt ballad that reveals the Rolling Stones’ softer, more vulnerable side. Released on Goats Head Soup in 1973, the song features a gentle acoustic arrangement anchored by Keith Richards’ delicate guitar work and Nicky Hopkins’ beautifully understated piano playing. Mick Jagger’s vocals are particularly poignant here—tender, wistful, and steeped in melancholy—as he sings about the unraveling of a once-passionate relationship. The lyrics are introspective and emotional, with lines like “Angie, you’re beautiful, but ain’t it time we said goodbye?” striking a deep chord with listeners. There’s a sense of resignation and bittersweet acceptance that runs through the track, making it relatable to anyone who’s experienced the end of a love affair. While the song’s origins have sparked much speculation—some believing it’s about David Bowie’s wife or Richards’ daughter—its emotional resonance transcends any one story. “Angie” became a massive hit and remains one of the band’s most enduring ballads. It showcases their ability to craft not just rock anthems, but also emotionally rich, beautifully arranged songs that speak to the heart. It’s a timeless reminder that even rock legends have a tender, reflective side.
4. Gimme Shelter (1969)
“Gimme Shelter” is a powerful, almost apocalyptic anthem that captures the chaos and fear of the late 1960s. Released on Let It Bleed in 1969, the song opens with Keith Richards’ chilling, tremolo-drenched guitar riff—a sound that feels like an approaching storm. The mood is dark and urgent from the start, and as Mick Jagger begins to sing about war, rape, and destruction, it becomes clear that this isn’t just a rock song—it’s a cry for help. The real showstopper, however, comes from guest vocalist Merry Clayton, whose searing performance adds a raw, gospel-like intensity. Her voice cracks with emotion as she screams “Rape, murder—it’s just a shot away,” creating one of the most unforgettable moments in rock history. “Gimme Shelter” wasn’t just a reflection of troubled times; it was a warning and a plea, a sonic mirror of a world teetering on the edge. Its themes of fear, violence, and the longing for safety remain just as relevant today. The track is a masterclass in atmosphere, storytelling, and emotional release. More than 50 years later, “Gimme Shelter” still sounds urgent, vital, and devastatingly real.
5. Brown Sugar (1971)
“Brown Sugar,” released on Sticky Fingers in 1971, is one of the Rolling Stones’ most recognizable and energetic songs—both celebrated for its infectious groove and scrutinized for its provocative lyrics. From the moment Keith Richards’ riff kicks in, it’s pure rock-and-roll adrenaline. The swagger, the sleaze, and the raw energy make this a quintessential Stones track. Mick Jagger’s vocals are full of unfiltered charisma as he delivers lyrics that blend references to race, sexuality, and the abuses of history with a knowing wink. It’s a song that has long sparked debate, but its musical impact is undeniable. Charlie Watts’ steady beat and Bobby Keys’ raucous saxophone solo elevate the track further, creating a chaotic yet tight musical landscape that feels like a barroom brawl set to music. Despite the controversy surrounding its content, “Brown Sugar” remains one of the band’s most played and best-loved songs. It captures the rebellious, hedonistic spirit that defined much of early ’70s rock. Whether seen as a brilliant satire, a rock classic, or a problematic relic, it’s impossible to ignore the cultural and musical footprint this track has left in its wake.
6. Start Me Up (1981)
“Start Me Up” is pure Rolling Stones swagger—loud, punchy, and impossible not to move to. Released in 1981 on the Tattoo You album, the song is built on one of Keith Richards’ most iconic guitar riffs. It starts with a bang and never lets up, charging forward with a relentless energy that instantly grabs hold. Mick Jagger is at his cheeky best here, delivering innuendo-laced lyrics with a wink and a grin, while Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman keep the groove locked in with precision. The track had a long journey before becoming the stadium anthem it is today—it actually started life as a reggae-tinged jam before the band reworked it into the tight, no-frills rocker we know. Its infectious rhythm and memorable lines like “You make a grown man cry” helped it become one of the Stones’ most enduring hits of the 1980s. “Start Me Up” isn’t just a song—it’s a mood-setter, a concert staple, and a reminder that even decades into their career, the Rolling Stones could still turn out a riff-heavy anthem that fired on all cylinders. It remains a staple at sporting events, concerts, and classic rock playlists around the world.
7. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction (1965)
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is more than just a song—it’s a defining moment in rock and roll history. Released in 1965, this track launched the Rolling Stones into global superstardom and remains one of the most recognizable riffs in music. Keith Richards famously dreamed the riff and recorded it in the middle of the night, and what came from that sleepy inspiration became a generation’s anthem of frustration and rebellion. Mick Jagger’s vocals drip with attitude as he rails against commercialism, superficiality, and the general emptiness of modern life. His sneering delivery of “I can’t get no satisfaction” struck a chord with young listeners who felt similarly disillusioned. Musically, the song is straightforward but incredibly effective—a pounding beat, fuzzed-out guitar, and relentless energy that refuses to let up. It captured the raw, rebellious spirit of the ’60s youth culture and cemented the Stones as the anti-establishment voice in contrast to their Beatles counterparts. More than half a century later, “Satisfaction” still explodes out of the speakers with as much urgency as ever. It’s not just a song—it’s a cultural milestone that defined what it meant to be restless, loud, and unapologetically rock-and-roll.
8. Wild Horses (1971)
“Wild Horses” is a tender, emotionally rich ballad that reveals a softer, more introspective side of the Rolling Stones. Released in 1971 on the Sticky Fingers album, the song departs from their usual rock bravado and instead leans into acoustic elegance and heartfelt vulnerability. Built on gentle strumming and a slow, melancholic melody, it’s a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and longing. Mick Jagger’s vocal performance is especially moving—his voice carries both pain and resolve as he sings the refrain, “Wild horses couldn’t drag me away.” The lyrics, co-written with Keith Richards, reflect a deep personal connection and have been interpreted in many ways—some say it’s about a doomed love affair, others believe it touches on the emotional toll of life on the road. Either way, its aching honesty is undeniable. “Wild Horses” resonates deeply with anyone who has held on to love through trials, distance, or time. The song’s simplicity is its strength: no flashy solos, no overproduction—just raw emotion and elegant songwriting. Over the decades, it has become a beloved classic, frequently covered by other artists and cherished by fans as one of the Stones’ most soulful offerings.
9. Miss You (1978)
“Miss You” marked a bold departure for the Rolling Stones, blending their signature rock sound with the disco groove that dominated the late 1970s. Released in 1978 on the Some Girls album, the song was both a commercial success and a creative risk that paid off. The rhythm is infectious—Bill Wyman’s pulsing bassline and Charlie Watts’ crisp, danceable drumming create a hypnotic backdrop for Mick Jagger’s sly and sultry vocals. Though it grooves like a disco track, there’s a bluesy melancholy to the lyrics, with Jagger singing about late-night loneliness and aching desire. He weaves a tale of a man haunted by the absence of a lover, and his performance is as emotionally convincing as it is cool and stylish. “Miss You” became a No. 1 hit in the U.S. and is often credited with helping bridge the gap between rock and dance music during a time when the two genres were often at odds. It’s proof that the Stones weren’t afraid to evolve with the times. Decades later, the song still gets people moving, and its blend of swagger, soul, and sophistication ensures it remains a dance floor favorite and a staple of their live shows.
10. Beast of Burden (1978)
“Beast of Burden” is one of the most emotionally nuanced songs in the Rolling Stones’ catalog, blending laid-back grooves with themes of love, loyalty, and emotional labor. Released in 1978 on the Some Girls album, the track has a bluesy, soulful vibe that lets it breathe, giving the lyrics room to hit home. Mick Jagger sings with warmth and vulnerability, telling a lover that he doesn’t want to be their “beast of burden”—a partner who’s always sacrificing without reciprocation. But there’s a tenderness underneath the bravado, a willingness to give despite the hurt. Keith Richards and Ron Wood’s guitar interplay is smooth and conversational, creating a warm, swaying rhythm that makes the song feel like a heart-to-heart. The Stones strip away the rock theatrics here in favor of a more intimate, human sound. It’s about romantic fatigue, but it’s also a declaration of devotion: flawed, weary, but real. “Beast of Burden” has become one of the band’s most beloved tracks, especially for fans who appreciate the Stones’ quieter, more thoughtful side. It remains a go-to song for anyone needing a soundtrack to the complexities of love, loyalty, and being there for someone—even when it’s hard.
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.
