10 Best The Rolling Stones Songs of All Time

The Rolling Stones, one of the most iconic and enduring rock bands in history, have crafted a musical legacy that spans generations. From their bluesy roots to their forays into psychedelia and beyond, the Stones have continually pushed the boundaries of rock and roll. With a career spanning over five decades, they have amassed an impressive catalog of hits that have stood the test of time. In this article, we’ll explore the top ten best songs ever produced by the Rolling Stones, each a testament to their unparalleled musical prowess and enduring appeal. From timeless classics like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” to the rebellious anthem “Sympathy for the Devil,” these songs not only showcase the band’s musical talent but also their ability to capture the spirit of their time. Join us as we delve into the heart of the Rolling Stones’ music, celebrating the songs that have made them legends in the rock pantheon.

1. Start Me Up

“Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones stands as an enduring anthem of rock ‘n’ roll’s irresistible allure. Released in 1981 on their album “Tattoo You,” the song instantly captivated audiences with its infectious guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s unmistakable vocals. Its driving rhythm and energetic vibe encapsulate the band’s timeless appeal, making it a quintessential part of their repertoire and a highlight of their live performances.

The song’s lyrics, with lines like “You make a grown man cry,” blend playful innuendo with raw rock attitude, reflecting the band’s rebellious spirit and charisma. “Start Me Up” quickly became a global sensation, reaching the top ten in numerous countries and solidifying its place in rock history.

Decades after its release, “Start Me Up” remains a staple on classic rock playlists and continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. Its enduring popularity underscores The Rolling Stones’ ability to craft music that transcends eras, showcasing their unparalleled influence on the genre. As the band’s most iconic and beloved songs, “Start Me Up” remains a testament to their enduring legacy as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

2. Jumpin’ Jack Flash

“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” stands as a timeless classic from The Rolling Stones, released in 1968 during a pivotal moment in rock music history. The song’s iconic opening riff, characterized by Keith Richards’ gritty guitar work, immediately grabs listeners’ attention and sets the stage for Mick Jagger’s electrifying vocal performance. With its raw energy and rebellious lyrics, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” embodies the essence of rock ‘n’ roll defiance.

The track’s mysterious lyrics, depicting a resilient figure named Jack Flash, resonate with themes of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Jagger’s charismatic delivery infuses the song with an infectious swagger that became emblematic of The Rolling Stones’ persona.

“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” quickly became a smash hit, topping charts worldwide and solidifying its place as one of the band’s signature songs. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, inspiring countless covers and references across various media.

Nearly six decades since its release, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” remains a cornerstone of rock music, celebrated for its raw intensity and enduring appeal. It continues to captivate audiences with its timeless blend of gritty guitar riffs, charismatic vocals, and unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll attitude, cementing its status as one of The Rolling Stones’ greatest achievements.

3. Wild Horses

“Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones is a poignant ballad that showcases the band’s versatility and emotional depth. Released in 1971 on the album “Sticky Fingers,” the song stands out with its heartfelt lyrics and haunting melody. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Wild Horses” explores themes of love, longing, and vulnerability, delivering a powerful narrative that resonates with listeners.

The song’s gentle acoustic guitar intro, played by Richards, sets a contemplative mood that perfectly complements Jagger’s soulful vocals. The heartfelt lyrics, expressing a sense of regret and yearning, evoke a deep emotional connection, making “Wild Horses” a standout track in The Rolling Stones’ discography.

Since its release, “Wild Horses” has become a beloved classic, praised for its introspective lyrics and evocative musical arrangement. Its timeless appeal has led to numerous covers by artists across different genres, further cementing its status as a masterpiece of rock balladry.

As one of The Rolling Stones’ most enduring songs, “Wild Horses” continues to captivate audiences with its raw emotion and intimate storytelling. It remains a testament to the band’s ability to craft deeply personal and universally resonant music that transcends generations.

4. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction

“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is arguably The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and influential song, released in 1965 during the height of the British Invasion. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the track immediately captured the rebellious spirit of the times with its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and Jagger’s defiant vocals.

The song’s lyrics, expressing frustration with consumer culture and societal expectations, struck a chord with young audiences around the world. Jagger’s delivery, filled with a blend of defiance and swagger, became an anthem for a generation disillusioned with conformity.

“I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” became an instant hit, reaching number one on the charts in multiple countries and propelling The Rolling Stones to international superstardom. Its impact on popular culture was immense, influencing fashion, attitudes, and music trends of the 1960s.

Decades later, “Satisfaction” remains a staple on classic rock radio and playlists, celebrated for its timeless energy and rebellious spirit. Its unforgettable guitar riff, courtesy of Keith Richards, continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike, solidifying its place as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.

As a defining moment in The Rolling Stones’ career, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” encapsulates the band’s ability to capture the zeitgeist and resonate across generations, ensuring its status as a legendary rock ‘n’ roll anthem.

5. Paint It Black

“Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones is a mesmerizing blend of rock, psychedelia, and Eastern influences that solidifies its place as a groundbreaking hit from 1966. Featuring Brian Jones’ distinctive sitar riff, the song’s haunting melody and Mick Jagger’s evocative vocals create an atmosphere of introspection and melancholy.

Lyrically, “Paint It Black” delves into themes of grief and loss, exploring the emotional turmoil of a protagonist grappling with the darkness of his world. Jagger’s delivery is poignant and intense, reflecting the song’s brooding tone and existential questioning.

The track’s innovative use of instrumentation, including the sitar and Charlie Watts’ powerful drumming, sets it apart as a daring departure from traditional rock norms. Its unique sound captivated audiences worldwide, topping charts in several countries and becoming a cultural touchstone of the 1960s counterculture movement.

“Paint It Black” remains a timeless classic, admired for its bold experimentation and profound lyrical depth. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by its frequent appearance in films, TV shows, and commercials, attesting to its lasting impact on popular culture.

As one of The Rolling Stones’ most acclaimed songs, “Paint It Black” continues to resonate with listeners, offering a compelling blend of musical innovation and emotional resonance that transcends generations.

6. Gimme Shelter

“Gimme Shelter” stands as a powerful testament to The Rolling Stones’ ability to capture the turbulence and uncertainty of its era. Released in 1969 on the album “Let It Bleed,” the song is renowned for its haunting vocals by Merry Clayton and its apocalyptic lyrics, reflecting the social and political unrest of the late 1960s.

The song opens with Keith Richards’ distinctive guitar riff, setting an ominous tone that intensifies with Mick Jagger’s urgent delivery. Lyrically, “Gimme Shelter” explores themes of violence, war, and the search for refuge amidst chaos, making it a poignant commentary on its time.

Merry Clayton’s soulful vocals in the chorus add a haunting layer of intensity, creating a chilling contrast with Jagger’s impassioned verses. The combination of Jagger and Clayton’s vocal interplay, backed by the band’s dynamic instrumentation, contributes to the song’s visceral impact.

“Gimme Shelter” remains a standout in The Rolling Stones’ catalog, hailed for its raw emotion and social commentary. Its inclusion in films, documentaries, and cultural retrospectives underscores its enduring relevance and influence.

As a defining song of the late 1960s, “Gimme Shelter” continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a stark reminder of the power of music to reflect and transcend the tumultuous times in which it was created.

7. Sympathy for the Devil

“Sympathy for the Devil” is a captivating masterpiece by The Rolling Stones, released in 1968 on the album “Beggars Banquet.” The song showcases the band’s evolution into sophisticated songwriters and storytellers, with Mick Jagger delivering a mesmerizing performance as the devil himself.

The track opens with a hypnotic percussion rhythm, driven by Charlie Watts’ intricate drumming, creating an atmosphere of intrigue and suspense. Jagger’s lyrics present a compelling narrative where he adopts the persona of various historical and mythical figures, inviting listeners to empathize with the devil’s perspective throughout pivotal moments in history.

Musically, “Sympathy for the Devil” blends elements of rock, blues, and Latin rhythms, highlighted by Keith Richards’ distinctive guitar riff and Brian Jones’ maraca accompaniment. The song’s dynamic structure and Jagger’s theatrical vocals contribute to its cinematic quality, drawing listeners into its narrative depths.

Upon its release, “Sympathy for the Devil” sparked controversy and fascination, reflecting the era’s social and political upheavals. Its provocative lyrics and innovative musical arrangement solidified its reputation as a groundbreaking rock composition.

Decades later, “Sympathy for the Devil” remains a cornerstone of The Rolling Stones’ legacy, celebrated for its artistic ambition and enduring relevance. Its exploration of human nature and moral ambiguity continues to resonate, cementing its status as one of rock music’s most iconic and thought-provoking songs.

8. You Can’t Always Get What You Want

“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” stands out as a poignant anthem from The Rolling Stones, released in 1969 on the album “Let It Bleed.” The song blends rock, gospel, and orchestral elements to create a rich tapestry of sound that reflects its introspective lyrics and universal message.

Opening with a gentle choir and acoustic guitar, the song gradually builds into a powerful crescendo, driven by Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals and the band’s masterful instrumentation. Lyrically, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” explores themes of acceptance, resilience, and the bittersweet realities of life’s disappointments and triumphs.

The song’s iconic refrain, “But if you try sometime, you find / You get what you need,” has become a timeless mantra, resonating with listeners across generations. Its blend of introspection and optimism offers a comforting reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” has endured as a classic, cherished for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship. Its inclusion in films, TV shows, and cultural events attests to its enduring impact and universal appeal.

As one of The Rolling Stones’ most beloved songs, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” continues to inspire with its message of hope and acceptance, solidifying its place as a timeless gem in the band’s illustrious career.

9. Angie

“Angie” by The Rolling Stones is a poignant ballad that stands out as one of the band’s most beloved songs. Released in 1973 on their album “Goats Head Soup,” the song showcases a softer, more introspective side of the legendary rock band. Written primarily by Keith Richards, with contributions from Mick Jagger, “Angie” is often interpreted as a song about the end of a romantic relationship. Its hauntingly beautiful piano melody, performed by Nicky Hopkins, and Richards’ delicate acoustic guitar work create a melancholic yet soothing backdrop for Jagger’s emotive vocals.

The lyrics of “Angie” reflect a sense of loss and longing, capturing the complexities of love and heartbreak. Jagger’s delivery is filled with raw emotion, resonating deeply with listeners and contributing to the song’s enduring popularity. “Angie” achieved commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and securing high chart positions worldwide. Its timeless appeal lies in its universal theme and the band’s ability to convey profound emotions through their music.

As one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic tracks, “Angie” continues to captivate audiences, solidifying its place among the greatest songs of all time. Its blend of lyrical poignancy and musical craftsmanship makes it a standout in the band’s extensive catalog.

10. Brown Sugar

“Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones is a high-energy rock anthem that has become one of the band’s most recognizable and controversial tracks. Released in 1971 as the lead single from their album “Sticky Fingers,” the song exemplifies the raw, gritty sound that defined The Rolling Stones in the early 1970s. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Brown Sugar” features a catchy, riff-driven melody, propelled by Richards’ iconic guitar work and Charlie Watts’ driving drums.

The song’s lyrics, delivered with Jagger’s signature swagger, are both provocative and ambiguous, touching on themes of race, sex, and the history of slavery. This lyrical content has sparked much debate and criticism over the years, adding to the song’s notoriety. Despite its controversial nature, “Brown Sugar” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and topping charts in multiple countries.

Musically, “Brown Sugar” is a testament to The Rolling Stones’ ability to blend rock and roll with elements of blues and funk. The song’s infectious rhythm, combined with Bobby Keys’ saxophone solo, creates a dynamic and memorable listening experience. As one of the band’s most enduring hits, “Brown Sugar” continues to be celebrated for its boldness and its place in rock history, capturing the rebellious spirit of The Rolling Stones at their peak.

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.