Top 10 Best Rolling Stones Songs

Inspired by the Brazilian equivalent of the North American cowboy, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards penned this hard rock track that was released in the UK a day after Brian Jones’ death. With its cowbell-driven beat, the 3-minute track topped both the British and U.S. charts. Though a honky-tonky version of the song was also recorded, it’s the blues-influenced 7-inch single with its amped-up, riff-based sound that’s got us hooked.

Though its lewd and crude lyrics initially made waves, that’s not the only thing that made Sticky Fingers’ lead single top American charts: the hard rock number featured horns, blues-rock riffs, and a groovy rhythm that just makes you want to dance. Despite its down and dirty sound, or perhaps because of it, “Brown Sugar” also went to number two in the UK and found a home on classic rock radio.

With its roots, folk and country rock influences, this Sticky Fingers tune is an emotional and thoughtful ballad that demonstrates the Stones’ softer side. With Richards writing the riff and chorus line and Jagger handling the verses, it’s also a fine example of the two musicians’ songwriting talents. Charting within the Billboard Hot 100’s top thirty, “Wild Horses” is a popular concert track that’s also spawned multiple covers.

With Ian Stewart’s piano playing on full display and a choir complementing Jagger’s vocals, this rocking single is one of the highlights from the Stones’ Exile on Main Street double album. Recounting the unfaithful ways of a gambling man, “Tumbling Dice” has a laid-back groove thanks to its bluesy boogie-woogie style. But the top ten smash also stands out for its trademark guitar figure and call and response conclusion.

The Stones’ went through dozens of takes, including a reggae-rock number, before they came up with the hard rocking vibe of the tune that became Tattoo You’s lead single. Opening with a now-well-known Richards’ riff, “Start Me Up” keeps our attention with a thumping rhythm generated by Charlie Watts’ drumming and Bill Wyman’s bass. Add Jagger’s confident vocals and the Stones had another top 10 on the U.S. and UK charts.

After the angelic voices of the London Bach Choir pull you into this Let It Bleed single, some soft guitar and Jagger’s poignant vocals keep you captivated. By mixing rock and gospel and adding French horn, the Stones showed they weren’t afraid to change things up. Its relatable lyrics also helped the song become a staple at the band’s live sets and in pop culture.

Thanks to Jones’ sitar riff, you’d be hard pressed to find many classic rockers who don’t love this raga rock and psychedelic rock number. By incorporating Indian influences to their sound, the Stones proved they weren’t a one-note band. Fans and critics were so mesmerized by its dark and haunting atmosphere that “Paint It Black” topped both the U.S. and UK charts. It’s also become one of the Stones’ most covered songs.

Bolstered by maracas and congas, this rocker off Beggars Banquet hypnotized critics and audiences with its samba-inspired groove. But it’s Jagger’s menacing vocals that truly bring this 6-minute-plus song narrated from Lucifer’s point of view to life. The band’s performance was so convincing that the Stones were later accused of being devil worshippers. Regardless, “Sympathy for the Devil” remains one of their most loved tracks.

Penned by Jagger and Richards, the opener to Let It Bleed combines all of the band’s musical talents to create an apocalyptic number that’s simply unforgettable. Bolstered by Watts and Wyman’s rhythm section, “Gimme Shelter” also boasts a unique and carefully crafted mood that chills us to the bone, but remains true to the Rolling Stones’ sound.

“Dead Flowers,” Sticky Fingers (1971)
“Moonlight Mile,” Sticky Fingers (1971)
“Street Fighting Man” Beggars Banquet (1968)
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” single (1968)
“Under My Thumb” Aftermath (1966)

If Richards hadn’t conceived this song’s now-famous riff in a dream, we may never have had one of the most recognizable and satisfactory riffs in rock history. Richards teamed up with Jagger to compose this rock and roller, and it quickly became the band’s first American chart-topper. “Satisfaction” didn’t only propel the Stones to monstrous success but also continues to earn critical acclaim and is often touted as one of the greatest songs ever.

Do you agree with our list? What’s your favorite Rolling Stones song? With new top 10s published every day, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.