The Rolling Stones, a band that emerged nearly six decades ago, continues to reign as one of the most beloved and influential music groups worldwide. Their extensive catalog, spanning from the 1960s to today, is filled with some of the most iconic and genre-defining tracks in rock history. To honor “The World’s Greatest Rock & Roll Band,” we present a ranking of the 50 best Rolling Stones songs.
What’s New with The Rolling Stones?
The Rolling Stones are geared up for an exciting 2024. This legendary band is embarking on a North American tour to promote their latest album, Hackney Diamonds, released in October 2023. Their 2024 tour dates include:
- April 28th – Houston, TX – NRG Stadium (Gary Clark Jr.)
- May 2nd – New Orleans, LA – Nola Jazz Fest
- May 7th – Glendale, AZ – State Farm Stadium (Carin Leon/Electric Mud)
- May 11th – Las Vegas NV – Allegiant Stadium (The Pretty Reckless)
- May 15th – Seattle, WA – Lumen Field (Joe Bonamassa)
- May 23rd – East Rutherford, NJ – Metlife Stadium (TBA)
- May 26th – East Rutherford, NJ – Metlife Stadium (Lawrence)
- May 30th – Foxboro, MA (Near Boston) – Gillette Stadium (The Red Clay Strays)
- June 3rd – Orlando, FL – Camping World Stadium (Tyler Childers)
- June 7th – Atlanta, GA – Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Ghost Hounds)
- June 11th – Philadelphia, PA – Lincoln Financial Field (KALEO)
- June 15th – Cleveland, OH – Cleveland Browns Stadium (Ghost Hounds)
- June 20th – Denver, CO – Empower Field at Mile High (Widespread Panic)
- June 27th – Chicago, IL – Soldier Field (Bettye LaVette)
- June 30th – Chicago, IL – Soldier Field (Lainey Wilson)
- July 5th – Vancouver, BC – BC Place (Ghost Hounds)
- July 10th – Los Angeles, CA – SOFI Stadium (The War and Treaty)
- July 13th – Los Angeles, CA – SOFI Stadium (The Linda Lindas)
- July 17th – Santa Clara, CA – Levi’s Stadium (The Beaches)
Hackney Diamonds marks their first album of original songs since 2005’s A Bigger Bang. The album announcement took place at a press conference in September 2023, hosted by Jimmy Fallon.
Mick Jagger commented on the album during the press conference, stating, “We wouldn’t be putting this out now if we didn’t really like it. We didn’t want to make just any record and put it out. So we wanted to make a record.”
Jagger continued, “Before we went in, we said we all want to make a record that we really love, ourselves. People may like it, other people may not. But we must say this, we are quite pleased with it. … We hope you’ll like it.”
Hackney Diamonds boasts an impressive list of guest artists. Ronnie Wood mentioned during the presser that Lady Gaga contributes vocals to “Sweet Sounds of Heaven.” He also mentioned Stevie Wonder, though without specifying the track. The late, beloved drummer Charlie Watts is featured on two songs, including “Live By the Sword.”
Keith Richards takes the lead vocals on “Tell Me Straight.” He jokingly said about the song, “I can tell you straight that I have no idea what it’s about. He [pointing to Jagger] tried to steal it, so it must be good.”
50. “Stop Breaking Down” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
“Stop Breaking Down” is one of two cover songs featured on the seminal album Exile on Main St.. This Rolling Stones rendition of the Robert Johnson blues classic is a powerful reminder of the band’s deep-seated blues roots. Mick Jagger’s harmonica playing is, as always, dynamic, and Mick Taylor’s slide guitar work is simply outstanding.
49. “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” – ‘It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll’ (1974)
This cover of The Temptations’ iconic hit is a loose, spirited, and utterly infectious track. It’s no surprise that it became a top 20 hit for the Stones on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing their ability to inject their own energy into classic songs.
48. “As Tears Go By” – ‘December’s Children (And Everybody’s)’ (1965)
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, along with their manager Andrew Loog Oldham, co-wrote this tender and melancholic song. While Marianne Faithfull originally recorded and released it in June 1964, the Rolling Stones recorded their version in December 1965. It became their fifth top 10 single in the United States and has been covered by numerous artists, including Nancy Sinatra and Avenged Sevenfold, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
47. “Mother’s Little Helper” – ‘Aftermath’ (1966)
Echoing the themes explored in Betty Friedan’s groundbreaking book The Feminine Mystique, “Mother’s Little Helper” is a poignant and cautionary song. It reflects the struggles of medicated housewives in the 1960s, grappling with dissatisfaction in their lives. Over five decades later, the song’s themes of societal pressure and hidden struggles remain relevant, highlighting the timeless nature of some societal issues.
46. “You Got Me Rocking” – ‘Voodoo Lounge’ (1994)
From the moment Charlie Watts’ distinctive drum fill initiates “You Got Me Rocking,” it’s almost impossible not to be swept up in its energetic rock and roll spirit. Simple yet powerful, this track proves that there’s always a place for straightforward, meat-and-potatoes rock and roll, delivered with Rolling Stones flair.
45. “I’m Free” – ‘December’s Children (And Everybody’s)’ (1965)
While the Rolling Stones possess a timeless quality, some of their early songs distinctly capture the essence of the 1960s. “I’m Free” is undeniably one of these tracks. Perhaps it’s the prominent tambourine that evokes this era, a sound that is less common in contemporary music, giving the song a nostalgic feel.
44. “Get Off of My Cloud” – ‘December’s Children (And Everybody’s)’ (1965)
Imagine the pressure of following up an absolute classic like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” While the Rolling Stones were enjoying their phenomenal success, their record company was eagerly anticipating their next hit. What they delivered was “Get Off of My Cloud,” a song that stands as perhaps the most polite yet firm rejection in rock history, a testament to their rebellious spirit.
43. “Anybody Seen My Baby?” – ‘Bridges to Babylon’ (1997)
“Anybody Seen My Baby?” is notable for several unique aspects of its creation. It’s the only Rolling Stones track to incorporate sampling, specifically Biz Markie’s hip-hop track “A One Two.” The song also credits k.d. lang and Ben Mink for the chorus due to its melodic similarity to Lang’s 1992 song “Constant Craving.” The music video famously starred a young Angelina Jolie. Furthermore, Jamie Muhoberac’s distinctive bassline is undeniably the backbone of this haunting and memorable song.
42. “Love Is Strong” – ‘Voodoo Lounge’ (1994)
“Love Is Strong” marked a couple of significant milestones for the Rolling Stones. It was the lead single from Voodoo Lounge and, more importantly, their first single released without bassist Bill Wyman, representing the first lineup change since Ronnie Wood joined in 1975. Despite these shifts, the Stones stayed true to their strengths: delivering sexy, catchy, blues-infused rock. This track led them to win the inaugural Grammy Award for Best Rock Album in 1995.
41. “All Down the Line” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
For almost any other band, “All Down the Line” would have been a single release. However, for the Rolling Stones, it was relegated to a B-side for “Happy.” This might have been due to their complex legal issues with ABKCO’s Allen Klein, who claimed the band wrote “All Down the Line” and four other Exile tracks while still under contract with ABKCO. Legal complexities aside, the song is an instant party starter, largely thanks to the lively trumpet and trombone contributions from Jim Price.
40. “Shattered” – ‘Some Girls’ (1978)
“Shattered” is a witty and sharp tribute to New York City that remains relevant even today. (“Pride and joy and greed and sex/That’s what makes that town the best.”) Released as the final single from Some Girls and the last single of the 1970s for the Rolling Stones, “Shattered” encapsulates the band’s experiences and observations during a wild decade. The playful use of the word “Shadoobie” also adds to the song’s unique charm.
39. “Doom and Gloom” – ‘GRRR!’ (2012)
GRRR! was a Rolling Stones compilation album released to celebrate their 50th anniversary. It included two new tracks, with “Doom and Gloom” as the lead single. The song is both a powerful rock anthem and a reminder that even after five decades, the Rolling Stones were still capable of creating songs that any band would aspire to write, proving their enduring creative force.
38. “She’s a Rainbow” – ‘Their Satanic Majesties Request’ (1967)
Similar to “I’m Free,” “She’s a Rainbow” distinctly embodies the sound and spirit of the 1960s. Even just reading the lyrics evokes the essence of the Summer of Love (“She comes in colors everywhere/She combs her hair/She’s like a rainbow.”). “She’s a Rainbow” is so uplifting and cheerful that it could melt even the most hardened heart. The strings on the track were arranged by a session musician named John Paul Jones, who later went on to have a successful career with Led Zeppelin.
37. “Shake Your Hips” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
The second cover on Exile on Main St., “Shake Your Hips,” was originally recorded by Slim Harpo in 1966. It further demonstrates the band’s deep appreciation and respect for the blues genre. The minimalist production provides a contrasting texture early in Exile, often considered the Rolling Stones’ masterpiece, highlighting their versatility.
36. “Sweet Black Angel” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
The Rolling Stones are not typically known as a overtly political band, but “Sweet Black Angel” is one of the rare instances where they made a clear political statement in their music. This Exile track is a tribute to civil rights activist Angela Davis, who was incarcerated at the time on false kidnapping and murder charges, of which she was later acquitted.
35. “Star Star” – ‘Goats Head Soup’ (1973)
When discussing the history of “diss tracks,” “Star Star” deserves a prominent section. A scathing critique of groupies (and perhaps Mick Jagger’s former girlfriend Carly Simon), the song was initially titled “Starf—er.” However, Ahmet Ertegun of Atlantic Records, then distributing the Stones’ records, intervened and requested the title be changed.
34. “Rip This Joint” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
“Rip This Joint” is a rockabilly-infused track featuring Mick Jagger delivering rapid-fire lyrics. It narrates a wild tale of drug use and traveling through the Southern United States as a foreigner. The song includes shoutouts to cities from Tampa to Santa Fe and mentions “The Butter Queen,” the nickname of famous groupie Barbara Cope. The origins of Cope’s nickname are best researched discreetly.
33. “Torn and Frayed” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
“Torn and Frayed” portrays a traveling guitarist moving from town to town, but it could easily be interpreted as a metaphor for the experiences of any band on a long, exhausting tour. The song leans into the Rolling Stones’ country influences, fittingly, as Gram Parsons famously visited Villa Nellcôte while they recorded Exile in the basement.
32. “Loving Cup” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
The Rolling Stones are often seen as the “bad boy” alternative to The Beatles, but even “bad boys” can be romantic and tender, as shown in “Loving Cup.” Many would be charmed by the line “love to spill the beans with you till dawn.” Nicky Hopkins’ piano playing is crucial to this track, serving as both its heart and backbone.
31. “Sweet Virginia” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
The Rolling Stones have a clear affinity for country music and lyrical references to drugs. “Sweet Virginia” merges these two interests, featuring Mick Jagger’s harmonica and Bobby Keys’ exceptional saxophone playing. These elements will reappear in other songs later in this list, highlighting recurring themes in their music.
30. “Salt of the Earth” – ‘Beggars Banquet’ (1968)
“Salt of the Earth,” a heartfelt tribute to the working class, closes Beggars Banquet with a poignant and reflective tone. The song gained even greater significance when Mick Jagger and Keith Richards performed it at “The Concert For New York City,” a benefit concert held at Madison Square Garden to honor NYC’s first responders after the 9/11 attacks.
29. “Live with Me” – ‘Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! The Rolling Stones in Concert’ (1970)
That unforgettable bass line in “Live with Me” is played by Keith Richards, not Bill Wyman. This track is notable as the first song the Rolling Stones recorded with their new guitarist Mick Taylor, who replaced Brian Jones, and the first to feature Bobby Keys on saxophone. The guitar chemistry between Richards and Taylor was remarkable, almost telepathic.
28. “Angie” – ‘Goats Head Soup’ (1973)
Some of the most moving love songs are about relationships that were not meant to be, despite genuine effort from both sides. “Angie” resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced such a situation. This beautiful ballad, primarily written by Keith Richards, offers solace in acknowledging that “They can’t say we never tried.”
27. “Bitch” – ‘Sticky Fingers’ (1971)
Any playlist of great rock songs with killer brass sections would be incomplete without “Bitch.” Bobby Keys and Jim Price deserve significant credit for their saxophone and trumpet contributions, which are essential to the song’s energy. Without their brass parts, “Bitch” simply wouldn’t be the same. Keith Richards’ guitar work also shines, driving the song’s tempo and intensity.
26. “Sway” – ‘Sticky Fingers’ (1971)
“Did you ever wake up to find/A day that broke up your mind?/Destroyed your notion of circular time?” These lyrics from “Sway” could easily be mistaken for a song written during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. “Sway” is primarily a collaboration between Mick Jagger and Mick Taylor, though credited to Jagger/Richards. Taylor’s guitar work perfectly complements Jagger’s dramatic vocals, and “Sway” marks the first time Jagger played guitar on a Rolling Stones track.
25. “Rocks Off” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
As the opening track of the 18-song Exile on Main St., “Rocks Off” is a remarkably dark and gritty song that sets the tone for the epic double album. The song delves into the struggles of a drug addict, specifically heroin addiction, and its impact on sexual performance. Despite the heavy subject matter, the organized chaos of the song—from overlapping vocals in the chorus to the distorted bridge—creates a unique and powerful sonic experience that only the Rolling Stones could achieve.
24. “Ruby Tuesday” – ‘Between the Buttons’ (1967)
Looking for a guaranteed way to propel a song to number one? Release it as the B-side to a single that radio stations are hesitant to play! “Ruby Tuesday” was released as a double A-side with “Let’s Spend the Night Together” as the lead single. Because “Ruby Tuesday” was the less suggestive of the two, many radio stations favored playing this gentle ballad, with lyrics primarily written by Keith Richards. It became the Rolling Stones’ fourth number one single on the Billboard Hot 100.
23. “Let’s Spend the Night Together” – ‘Between the Buttons’ (1967)
Hindsight offers a humorous perspective. A song like “Let’s Spend the Night Together” seems almost tame by today’s standards. However, in 1967, it was considered scandalous and famously altered to “Let’s Spend Some Time Together” when the Stones performed it on The Ed Sullivan Show. Mick Jagger’s dramatic eye-roll while singing the altered lyric remains a memorable and amusing moment. The original lyrics were quite forward for the time, proposing a mutual satisfaction of needs.
22. “Paint It Black” – ‘Aftermath’ (1966)
The Rolling Stones have many songs about lost love, but none are as dark and intense as “Paint It Black.” Brian Jones’ sitar playing is a defining element of this track, contributing to its unique and somber atmosphere. It became the Rolling Stones’ third song to reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, demonstrating its powerful impact.
21. “Dead Flowers” – ‘Sticky Fingers’ (1971)
Country influences and drug references are prominent in “Dead Flowers,” a brooding and bitter song that is also remarkably catchy. This combination of elements, which might seem unlikely to work, comes together perfectly in “Dead Flowers.” The line, “And I won’t forget to put roses on your grave,” remains one of the most subtly brutal and memorable burns in the entire Rolling Stones catalog.
20. “Shine a Light” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
“Shine a Light” is both heartbreaking and magnificent. The song serves as a tribute to their late guitarist Brian Jones. While released on Exile in 1972, Mick Jagger began writing it in 1968 when Jones was still in the band, but his drug use was becoming increasingly problematic. The lyrics are deeply moving and relatable to anyone who has lost someone young, especially due to substance abuse.
19. “Moonlight Mile” – ‘Sticky Fingers’ (1971)
The romanticized idea of life on the road is starkly contrasted in “Moonlight Mile,” the emotional closing track of Sticky Fingers. While performing for fans is exhilarating, the time between shows, traveling from city to city, can be isolating and cold (“The sound of strangers sending nothing to my mind/Just another mad, mad day on the road.”). Mick Taylor’s guitar work, Jim Price’s piano, and Paul Buckmaster’s string arrangement carry the song’s emotional weight, creating a powerful and moving piece.
18. “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” – ‘Sticky Fingers’ (1971)
“Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” teaches a valuable lesson: always keep the recording tape running. The song’s iconic instrumental jam at the end was completely unplanned. The Rolling Stones and their session musicians were unaware they were still being recorded until after the jam session had begun. Bobby Keys’ saxophone work on this track is arguably his finest moment with the Rolling Stones.
17. “Waiting on a Friend” – ‘Tattoo You’ (1981)
Not all love songs are about romantic love, and “Waiting On A Friend” is perhaps the greatest example of this. The second single from 1981’s Tattoo You, the lyrics, written by Mick Jagger, are about the bonds of friendship within the Rolling Stones: “Don’t need a whore, don’t need no booze. Don’t need a virgin priest, but I need someone I can cry to. I need someone to protect.” For those fortunate enough to have such a friend, this song perfectly captures the profound love and support found in deep friendship.
16. “Miss You” – ‘Some Girls’ (1978)
Some might argue that the Rolling Stones, one of the greatest rock bands ever, are also responsible for one of the best disco songs of all time. This isn’t far-fetched when considering “Miss You.” The hook is undeniably catchy, possibly the catchiest Mick Jagger and Keith Richards have ever written.
15. “Happy” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
“Happy” is the most successful Rolling Stones song with Keith Richards on lead vocals. According to Richards, it came about “because I was for one time early for a [recording] session.” This accidental creation became a significant part of the Stones’ live setlist, performed over 500 times. Richards not only sang lead and played guitar but also played bass on the track.
14. “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” – ‘Let It Bleed’ (1969)
Despite some opinions about its association with The Big Chill, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” has remained a Rolling Stones showstopper for 50 years, and rightfully so. The London Bach Choir’s ethereal vocals create a unique contrast to the Rolling Stones’ rock sound, perfectly encapsulating the end of the 1960s, a decade of profound change and turmoil. As the 1970s approached, the song offered a message of resilience and hope.
13. “Beast of Burden” – ‘Some Girls’ (1978)
Simply put, “Beast of Burden” is incredibly sexy. It’s a perfect blend of lust, romance, and effortless cool, which also describes the Rolling Stones as a band. The groove is relaxed yet precise, rough enough, tough enough, rich enough, and in love enough.
12. “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It)” – ‘It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll’ (1974)
If rock music had a theme song, “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It)” would be a strong contender. It’s brimming with attitude, fantastic guitars, and a powerful rhythm track. What more could you want? This song understands that rock and roll is not a choice, but a calling, and embraces it wholeheartedly.
11. “Wild Horses” – ‘Sticky Fingers’ (1971)
The Rolling Stones have numerous ballads, but “Wild Horses” is their best, hitting the emotional bullseye every time. Lines like, “No sweeping exits or offstage lines/Could make me feel bitter or treat you unkind,” are deeply affecting, capable of moving even the most stoic listener.
10. “Tumbling Dice” – ‘Exile on Main St.’ (1972)
The lead and most commercially successful single from Exile, “Tumbling Dice,” is arguably the coolest song to use gambling and love as metaphors. Mick Taylor plays bass on this track, with Mick Jagger on rhythm guitar and Keith Richards on lead. Charlie Watts’ drumming is minimalist perfection. The sublime backing vocals of Clydie King, Venetta Fields, and Sherlie Matthews elevate the song even further.
9. “Midnight Rambler” – ‘Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! The Rolling Stones in Concert’ (1970)
“Midnight Rambler” is one of the best straight-ahead blues tracks written by Jagger and Richards. Opening side two of Let It Bleed, it showcases Mick Jagger’s underrated harmonica skills. While the studio version is excellent, the live rendition on Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! is a blues jam masterpiece.
8. “Brown Sugar” – ‘Sticky Fingers’ (1971)
It’s important to acknowledge that the lyrics of “Brown Sugar” would likely not be acceptable today. Mick Jagger himself admitted in a 1995 Rolling Stone interview, “God knows what I’m on about on that song. It’s such a mishmash. All the nasty subjects in one go… I never would write that song now.” Lyrical content aside, the track became the Rolling Stones’ sixth number one song on the Billboard Hot 100, largely due to its incredible groove. It’s the song they have performed the second-most times in concert.
7. “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” – ‘Through the Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2)’ (1968)
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is the song the Rolling Stones have played live the most. They have performed this gem over 1,100 times. It marked a welcome return to their signature sound after the experimental Their Satanic Majesties Request. While experimentation is valuable, blues-based Rolling Stones is often considered their strongest form. “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” has been covered by artists from Tina Turner to Aretha Franklin, further cementing its status as a rock classic.
6. “Honky Tonk Women” – ‘Through the Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2)’ (1969)
Bless the cowbell and producer Jimmy Miller’s playing of it, which kicks off “Honky Tonk Women.” And bless the women who inspired the song, particularly the one who blew Mick Jagger’s nose and then his mind. While the song originated from country influences, evident in “Country Honk” on Let It Bleed, “Honky Tonk Women” is significantly superior and a testament to the power of song development and refinement.
5. “Street Fighting Man” – ‘Beggars Banquet’ (1968)
Inspired by anti-war demonstrations in 1968, “Street Fighting Man” captures the Rolling Stones at their most visceral and politically charged. Despite being about 60s protests, its message and attitude remain relevant to countless movements worldwide. The song has a timeless quality, perhaps the most universally resonant in their catalog. Brian Jones’ sitar and tamboura work adds a unique and potent layer to the track.
4. “Start Me Up” – ‘Tattoo You’ (1981)
One second is all it takes to recognize “Start Me Up.” By the first beat, you instantly know what you’re hearing. It’s one of the most radio-friendly songs in their entire catalog, perhaps the most radio-friendly. Ironically, they managed to sneak the lyric “You make a dead man cum” past censors, a lyric that didn’t cause the scandal that “Let’s Spend The Night Together” did 14 years earlier. Keith Richards’ iconic riff is truly unforgettable.
3. “Sympathy for the Devil” – ‘Beggars Banquet’ (1968)
“Sympathy for the Devil,” with its narrative of historical tragedies from the devil’s perspective, is often underappreciated for its cleverness. The Rolling Stones faced criticism from the beginning for their behavior and lyrics. Instead of complaining, they turned the mirror on their critics. The song’s playful yet thought-provoking take on Satan, combined with the hypnotic “woo woos,” is nothing short of brilliant.
2. “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” – ‘Out of Our Heads’ (1965)
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is as legendary as the story of Keith Richards writing its iconic riff half-asleep. While music preferences change across generations, the underlying frustrations remain constant. This song established the blueprint for angst anthems that countless younger artists have followed. It captured a generational feeling of dissatisfaction that continues to resonate.
1. “Gimme Shelter” – ‘Let It Bleed’ (1969)
Many factors contribute to “Gimme Shelter” being considered the greatest Rolling Stones song. It’s one of the best opening tracks ever, dramatically launching Let It Bleed. It features Merry Clayton’s iconic and fervent vocal solo, her voice cracking as she belts out “Rape, Murder,” sending chills down listeners’ spines. Most importantly, over 50 years later, “Gimme Shelter” is sadly even more relevant. In an era of frequent mass shootings, the line “It’s just a shot away” resonates deeply, making it a timeless plea for peace in the face of relentless violence. Perhaps one day, the love the song speaks of will prevail.
