What are the Rolling Stones’ biggest songs? The legendary rock band, formed in London in 1962, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with their enduring legacy. In this exploration, we delve into some of The Rolling Stones’ most significant and enduring musical contributions, reflecting on the songs that have etched their place in the annals of rock history.
Among the Rolling Stones’ most celebrated songs is “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” a 1965 hit that perfectly encapsulated the band’s rebellious spirit and the social and cultural upheaval of the era. Its infectious riff, Mick Jagger’s impassioned vocals, and Keith Richards’ bluesy guitar work made it an instant classic, and it remains one of their best songs.
Another cornerstone of the Rolling Stones’ repertoire is “Sympathy for the Devil,” a haunting and darkly atmospheric track from their 1968 masterpiece, Beggars Banquet. The song’s cinematic grandeur, its exploration of human nature and the forces of evil, and its mesmerizingly catchy melody have cemented its place in rock history.
Other notable entries in the Rolling Stones’ catalog include the blues-infused “Paint It Black,” the soulful ballad “Angie,” the swaggering “Start Me Up,” and the gospel-tinged “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” These songs, along with others, have contributed to the band’s enduring legacy and solidified their position as one of the most significant and influential in rock music.
What is the Rolling Stones’ biggest song of all time?
The Rolling Stones’ biggest song of all time is undoubtedly (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction. It was released in 1965 and was a massive hit, reaching #1 in the US and UK charts. It has since become one of the most iconic and recognizable songs in rock-and-roll history.
The song’s iconic guitar riff, catchy melody, and rebellious lyrics have resonated with generations of listeners. Satisfaction has been covered by countless artists over the years, and it has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.
It is a staple of classic rock radio and is still played at concerts and sporting events around the world. In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Satisfaction at number 2 on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Other contenders for the title of the Rolling Stones’ biggest song include:
- Sympathy for the Devil
- Gimme Shelter
- Paint It, Black
- Jumpin’ Jack Flash
- Brown Sugar
- You Can’t Always Get What You Want
However, Satisfaction is the song that has had the biggest impact on popular culture and remains the most popular and enduring Rolling Stones song to this day.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most popular song?
The Rolling Stones’ most popular song is (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.
This is based on a number of factors, including:
- Streaming and sales: Satisfaction is the Rolling Stones’ most streamed song on Spotify, with over 600 million streams. It is also their best-selling single, with over 4 million copies sold in the United States alone.
- Radio airplay: Satisfaction is one of the most-played songs on classic rock radio stations around the world.
- Public recognition: Satisfaction is consistently ranked as one of the greatest songs of all time in various polls and surveys.
- Cultural impact: Satisfaction has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, and it has been covered by countless artists over the years. It is a truly iconic and timeless song that has resonated with generations of listeners.
What is the Rolling Stones’ best-selling song?
The Rolling Stones’ best-selling song is (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction. It is estimated to have sold over 4 million copies in the United States alone, and it is their most streamed song on Spotify, with over 600 million streams.
Other best-selling Rolling Stones songs include:
- Brown Sugar (over 2 million copies sold in the US)
- Angie (over 2 million copies sold in the US)
- Paint It, Black (over 1 million copies sold in the US)
- Start Me Up (over 1 million copies sold in the US)
- You Can’t Always Get What You Want (over 1 million copies sold in the US)
(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction is a truly iconic and timeless song that has resonated with generations of listeners. It is no wonder that it is the Rolling Stones’ best-selling song of all time.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most iconic song?
The Rolling Stones’ most iconic song is (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction. It is a song that has transcended generations and genres, and it remains one of the most popular and enduring songs in rock and roll history.
The song’s iconic guitar riff, catchy melody, and rebellious lyrics have resonated with listeners for over 50 years. It is a song that speaks to universal themes of frustration, dissatisfaction, and the search for meaning.
Satisfaction has been covered by countless artists over the years, and it has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. It is a staple of classic rock radio and is still played at concerts and sporting events around the world.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Satisfaction at number 2 on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. It is a song that has had a profound impact on popular culture, and it remains one of the most iconic songs of all time.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most Grammy-winning song?
The Rolling Stones’ most Grammy-winning song is “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”, which has won 2 Grammy Awards. It won the first Grammy Award for Best Rock & Roll Recording in 1966, and it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1994.
Moreover, the Rolling Stones have won a total of 3 Grammy Awards throughout their career. In addition to the 2 Grammy Awards for “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”, they also won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album for Blue & Lonesome in 2017.
While “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is their most Grammy-winning song, the Rolling Stones have also been nominated for 12 Grammy Awards for other songs, including:
- “Sympathy for the Devil” (Best Rock & Roll Single, 1969)
- “Gimme Shelter” (Best Rock & Roll Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 1970)
- “Brown Sugar” (Best Rock & Roll Male Vocal Performance, 1972)
- “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” (Best Rock & Roll Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group, 1973)
- “Miss You” (Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 1978)
- “Start Me Up” (Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 1981)
- “Mixed Emotions” (Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 1990)
- “Love Is Strong” (Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 1994)
- “Anybody Seen My Baby?” (Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 1998)
- “Rough Justice” (Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 2006)
- “Living in a Ghost Town” (Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, 2020)
The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, and their music continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most covered song?
The Rolling Stones’ most covered song is “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”, with over 400 different covers recorded. It is one of the most iconic and recognizable songs in rock and roll history, and it has been covered by artists across a wide range of genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and country.
Some notable covers of “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” include:
- Devo (1981)
- Shirley Bassey (1983)
- Britney Spears (2002)
- Vanilla Ice (1990)
- Aretha Franklin (1969)
- Otis Redding (1965)
- Santana (1975)
- The Beatles (1965)
- The Who (1965)
- The Grateful Dead (1969)
- David Bowie (1978)
- Ciara (2015)
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is a truly timeless song that has resonated with generations of listeners. Its iconic guitar riff, catchy melody, and rebellious lyrics have made it one of the most popular and enduring songs in rock and roll history.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most sampled song?
The Rolling Stones’ most sampled song is (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction, with over 1,000 samples recorded. It is one of the most iconic and recognizable songs in rock and roll history, and it has been sampled by artists across a wide range of genres, including hip-hop, R&B, pop, and dance.
Some notable samples of (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” include:
- Kanye West – “Diamonds Are Forever” (2004)
- Jay-Z – “Change the Game” (2000)
- Beyoncé – “Formation” (2016)
- Eminem – “My Name Is” (1999)
- Puff Daddy – “Can’t Nobody Hold Me Down” (1997)
- The Beastie Boys – “Sabotage” (1994)
- Nelly – “Hot in Herre” (2002)
- Britney Spears – “Toxic” (2003)
- Rihanna – “Umbrella” (2007)
- Black Eyed Peas – “I Gotta Feeling” (2009)
- Miley Cyrus – “Wrecking Ball” (2013)
- Drake – “One Dance” (2016)
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” is a truly timeless song that has resonated with generations of listeners. Its iconic guitar riff, catchy melody, and rebellious lyrics have made it one of the most popular and enduring songs in rock and roll history. It is no wonder that it is also the Rolling Stones’ most sampled song.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most danceable song?
Determining the Rolling Stones’ most danceable song is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, several songs stand out as particularly infectious and groove-inducing:
- “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” (1965): This iconic anthem with its catchy riffs and driving beat is a staple at dance floors and parties worldwide.
- “Miss You” (1978): This disco-infused single combines the Stones’ signature rock sound with a groovy bassline and infectious melody.
- “Brown Sugar” (1971): This funk-rock classic features irresistible rhythms, soulful vocals, and a sense of raw energy that makes it a dance floor favorite.
- “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” (1979): This high-energy track with its pulsating rhythm and suggestive lyrics is guaranteed to get people moving.
- “Honky Tonk Women” (1969): This country-rock number with its infectious piano riff and swaggering vocals is a popular choice for line dancing and two-stepping.
- “Jumping Jack Flash” (1968): This bluesy rock song with its catchy hook and driving beat is a classic dance floor filler.
- “Let’s Spend the Night Together” (1967): This raucous track with its suggestive lyrics and infectious energy is a must-have for any rock-and-roll dance party.
- “Start Me Up” (1981): This upbeat rock song with its catchy chorus and energetic pace is a modern classic that always gets people moving.
- “It’s Only Rock and Roll (But I Like It)” (1974): This self-deprecating anthem with its playful lyrics and infectious melody is a fun and lighthearted choice for any dance party.
- “Gimme Shelter” (1969): This dark and atmospheric song with its bluesy riffs and soulful vocals creates an intense and immersive dance experience.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most romantic song?
The Rolling Stones’ most romantic song is a matter of opinion; as different people have different preferences when it comes to love songs. Some of the band’s most popular and enduring love songs include:
- “Wild Horses” (1971): This wistful and bittersweet ballad is about the fleeting nature of love and the longing for someone who is out of reach.
- “Angie” (1973): This heartfelt and introspective song is about the pain of heartbreak and the hope for reconciliation.
- “Ruby Tuesday” (1967): This mysterious and evocative song is about a woman who is lost in her own world, and the man who loves her from afar.
- “She’s a Rainbow” (1967): This optimistic and joyful song is about the power of love to transform someone’s life.
- “Moonlight Mile” (1969): This elegiac and atmospheric song is about the longing for a lost love.
- “Let’s Spend the Night Together” (1967): This raucous and suggestive song is about the excitement of new love.
- “Love in Vain” (1995): This bluesy and soulful song is about the regret of lost love.
- “Tumbling Dice” (1969): This playful and flirtatious song is about the thrill of chance encounters.
- “Beast of Burden” (1978): This raw and passionate song is about the intensity of love and desire.
- “She Smiled Sweetly” (1966): This gentle and affectionate song is about the simple joys of love.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most rebellious song?
Some of the Rolling Stones’ most rebellious songs:
- “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” (1965): This iconic song is a rejection of societal expectations and a call for personal freedom.
- “Street Fighting Man” (1968): This song is a call to action against social and political injustice.
- “Sympathy for the Devil” (1968): This song is a dark and disturbing exploration of evil and temptation.
- “Gimme Shelter” (1969): This song is a chaotic and apocalyptic vision of the end of the world.
- “Brown Sugar” (1971): This song is a controversial exploration of sex, race, and slavery.
- “Exile on Main St.” (1972): This double album is a sprawling and decadent exploration of rock and roll excess.
- “Notorious” (1975): This song is a swaggering and self-assured declaration of the Stones’ status as rock and roll outlaws.
- “Rough Justice” (1980): This song is a critique of social and economic inequality.
- “Under the Radar” (1989): This song is a defiant refusal to conform to the expectations of the music industry.
- “A Bigger Bang” (2005): This song is a triumphant return to form for the Stones, and it’s also a celebration of rock and roll rebellion.
These songs are just a few examples of the Rolling Stones’ rebellious spirit. Throughout their career, the Stones have always been willing to push boundaries and challenge authority, and their music has always been a reflection of their rebellious attitude. This is why the Stones are still considered to be one of the most iconic and influential rock and roll bands of all time.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most underrated song?
The Rolling Stones have a vast and diverse discography, spanning over six decades and encompassing a wide range of genres and styles. As a result, determining their most underrated song is subjective and depends on individual preferences. But, several songs stand out as particularly overlooked and deserving of greater recognition:
- “Stray Cat Blues” (1960): This early blues number showcases the Stones’ raw energy and authentic blues roots, with Mick Jagger’s harmonica playing and Keith Richards’ guitar riffs taking center stage.
- “Far Away Eyes” (1971): This delicate and introspective ballad from the album “Sticky Fingers” features a beautiful piano melody, subtle guitar work, and Jagger’s vulnerable vocals, creating a poignant and understated gem.
- “Tumbling Dice” (1969): This playful and flirtatious song from the album “Let It Bleed” is driven by a catchy piano riff and Richards’ signature guitar licks, with Jagger’s lighthearted vocals adding a touch of charm and humor.
- “Moonlight Mile” (1969): This epic and atmospheric ballad from the album “Let It Bleed” features a haunting piano melody, Brian Jones’ mellotron orchestration, and Jagger’s emotive vocals, creating a deeply moving and evocative piece.
- “You Got Me Rocking” (2005): This energetic and bluesy track from the album “A Bigger Bang” showcases the Stones’ renewed vigor and vitality in their later years, with Richards’ gritty guitar riffs and Jagger’s impassioned vocals delivering a powerful and infectious rock and roll anthem.
- “Connection” (1967): This soulful and introspective ballad from the album “Between the Buttons” features a mellow piano accompaniment, Richards’ understated guitar work, and Jagger’s heartfelt vocals, exploring themes of loneliness, longing, and the search for connection.
- “She Smiled Sweetly” (1966): This gentle and affectionate song from the album “Aftermath” captures the innocence and sweetness of young love, with its delicate melody, acoustic guitar accompaniment, and Jagger’s endearing vocals.
- “Memory Motel” (1971): This haunting and atmospheric ballad from the album “Sticky Fingers” features a melancholic piano melody, Richards’ slide guitar, and Jagger’s evocative vocals, creating a poignant reflection on lost love and fleeting memories.
- “Dead Flowers” (1972): This raw and bluesy rocker from the album “Exile on Main St.” showcases the Stones’ gritty and unfiltered side, with Richards’ distorted guitar riffs and Jagger’s raspy vocals delivering a powerful and unapologetic rock and roll statement.
- “Hang Fire” (1989): This quirky and unconventional song from the album “Steel Wheels” features a stop-start rhythm, Richards’ jangly guitar work, and Jagger’s playful and slightly nonsensical lyrics, creating a unique and intriguing track.
These are just a few examples of the Rolling Stones’ many underrated songs. Their vast and diverse catalog is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered, demonstrating the band’s enduring creativity and ability to surprise and delight listeners with their music.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most overrated song?
Determining the Rolling Stones’ most overrated song is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Several songs are often mentioned as being overplayed, overhyped, or simply not as good as some of their other work. Here are a few examples:
- “Satisfaction” (1965): This iconic song is undoubtedly a classic, but it has been so overplayed and overexposed that it has lost some of its impact.
- “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” (1965): Another iconic song that has been overplayed to the point of being cliché.
- “Paint It, Black” (1966): This dramatic and atmospheric song is often seen as being overrated due to its overexposure in movies and television.
- “Start Me Up” (1981): This catchy and energetic song is often seen as being overrated due to its overexposure in commercials and sporting events.
- “Brown Sugar” (1971): This controversial song is often criticized for its lyrics, which some find to be offensive.
- “Miss You” (1978): This disco-infused song is often seen as being overrated due to its departure from the Stones’ traditional sound.
- “Honky Tonk Women” (1969): This country-rock song is often seen as being overrated due to its uneven quality and forgettable lyrics.
- “Gimme Shelter” (1969): This dark and atmospheric song is often seen as being overrated due to its overblown production and melodramatic vocals.
- “Jumping Jack Flash” (1968): This bluesy rock song is often seen as being overrated due to its repetitive structure and uninspired lyrics.
- “Let’s Spend the Night Together” (1967): This raucous and suggestive song is often seen as being overrated due to its juvenile lyrics and simplistic music.
It is crucial to note that these are just a few examples, and there are many other Rolling Stones songs that could be considered overrated or underrated. Ultimately, it is up to each individual listener to decide which songs they like and which songs they think are overrated.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most difficult song to play?
Determining the Rolling Stones’ most difficult song to play is subjective and depends on individual skill level and musical expertise. However, several songs stand out as particularly challenging due to their technical complexity, intricate arrangements, or demanding vocal requirements:
- “Moonlight Mile” (1969): This epic and atmospheric ballad features a complex and shifting time signature, a haunting piano melody, and Brian Jones’ intricate mellotron orchestration, making it a challenging piece to perform live.
- “Gimme Shelter” (1969): This dark and atmospheric song features a chaotic and unpredictable arrangement, with Richards’ distorted guitar riffs, Charlie Watts’ powerful drumming, and Mick Jagger’s impassioned vocals creating a demanding and intense listening experience.
- “Tumbling Dice” (1969): This playful and flirtatious song features a deceptive simplicity that masks its underlying complexity, with its syncopated rhythms, Richards’ intricate guitar work, and Jagger’s nuanced vocal delivery making it a challenging song to master.
- “Sympathy for the Devil” (1968): This haunting and evocative song features a complex and unconventional structure, with its Latin-influenced rhythms, Richards’ serpentine guitar riffs, and Jagger’s dramatic vocal performance making it a demanding and rewarding musical experience.
- “Wild Horses” (1971): This wistful and bittersweet ballad features a delicate and intricate arrangement, with its acoustic guitar arpeggios, Richards’ subtle guitar work, and Jagger’s emotionally resonant vocals making it a technically challenging and emotionally evocative song.
- “Dead Flowers” (1972): This raw and bluesy rocker features a demanding vocal performance, with Jagger’s gritty and raspy vocals pushing the limits of his range, while Richards’ distorted guitar riffs and the band’s tight rhythm section create a challenging and energetic musical landscape.
- “You Got Me Rocking” (2005): This energetic and bluesy track features a demanding vocal performance, with Jagger’s soulful and impassioned vocals showcasing his versatility and range, while Richards’ gritty guitar riffs and the band’s powerful rhythm section create a challenging and exhilarating musical experience.
- “Connection” (1967): This soulful and introspective ballad features a demanding vocal performance, with Jagger’s emotive and nuanced vocals conveying the song’s themes of loneliness, longing, and the search for connection, while the subtle piano accompaniment and Richards’ understated guitar work provide a delicate and supportive musical backdrop.
- “She Smiled Sweetly” (1966): This gentle and affectionate song features a deceptively simple structure that masks its underlying complexity, with its delicate melody, acoustic guitar accompaniment, and Jagger’s endearing vocals making it a technically challenging and emotionally rewarding song to perform.
- “Memory Motel” (1971): This haunting and atmospheric ballad features a demanding vocal performance, with Jagger’s evocative and melancholic vocals capturing the song’s themes of lost love and fleeting memories, while the piano melody and Richards’ slide guitar provide a poignant and atmospheric musical accompaniment.
These are just a few examples of the Rolling Stones’ many challenging songs. Their vast and diverse catalog is filled with complex arrangements, intricate melodies, and demanding vocal requirements, making them a band that continues to inspire and challenge musicians of all levels.
What is the Rolling Stones’ most fun song to sing along to?
Determining the Rolling Stones’ most fun song to sing along to is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, several songs stand out as particularly catchy, energetic, and crowd-pleasing numbers:
- “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” (1965): This iconic anthem is a staple at karaoke nights and sing-alongs worldwide, with its simple yet powerful lyrics and infectious melody making it an easy and enjoyable song to belt out.
- “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” (1968): This bluesy rock song is another popular choice for sing-alongs, with its catchy hook, driving beat, and Jagger’s charismatic vocals making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- “Brown Sugar” (1971): This funk-rock classic features irresistible rhythms, soulful vocals, and a sense of raw energy that makes it a favorite among singers and dancers alike.
- “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine” (1979): This high-energy track with its pulsating rhythm and suggestive lyrics is guaranteed to get people moving and singing along.
- “Honky Tonk Women” (1969): This country-rock number with its infectious piano riff and swaggering vocals is a popular choice for line dancing and two-stepping, and it’s also a fun song to sing along to.
- “Start Me Up” (1981): This upbeat rock song with its catchy chorus and energetic pace is a modern classic that always gets people singing along.
- “It’s Only Rock and Roll (But I Like It)” (1974): This self-deprecating anthem with its playful lyrics and infectious melody is a fun and lighthearted choice for any sing-along.
- “Miss You” (1978): This disco-infused single combines the Stones’ signature rock sound with a groovy bassline and infectious melody, making it a popular choice for dance floors and sing-alongs.
- “Dead Flowers” (1972): This raw and bluesy rocker is a great choice for those who want to sing along with a bit of grit and attitude.
- “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” (1971): This epic seven-minute track is a bit longer than some of the others on this list, but it’s a great choice for those who want to get lost in the music and belt out the lyrics with gusto.
These are just a few examples of the Rolling Stones’ extensive catalog of fun and singable songs. With their diverse musical styles and infectious energy, the Rolling Stones have created a timeless body of work that continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
What is the Rolling Stones song that always gets you moving?
There are many Rolling Stones songs that always get me moving, but if I had to choose one, it would be “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” It’s just such a catchy and energetic song, and I can’t help but dance along whenever I hear it. The lyrics are also relatable and speak to the frustration of not being able to get what you want, which is something I think everyone can relate to.
Here are some other Rolling Stones songs that always get me moving:
- “Brown Sugar”
- “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”
- “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine”
- “Honky Tonk Women”
- “Miss You”
- “Start Me Up”
- “It’s Only Rock and Roll (But I Like It)”
- “Dead Flowers”
- “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking”
- “Tumbling Dice”
- “Gimme Shelter”
- “Sympathy for the Devil”
- “Wild Horses”
- “Connection”
- “She Smiled Sweetly”
- “Memory Motel”
These are just a few examples, and there are many other great Rolling Stones songs that are sure to get you moving. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to shake your groove thang!
Conclusion
What are the Rolling Stones’ biggest songs? The Rolling Stones, iconic pioneers of rock ‘n’ roll, have left an indelible mark on the music industry with a catalog of timeless hits. Among their biggest songs are the perennial anthem “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” a gritty declaration of rebellion, and “Paint It, Black,” a haunting exploration of darker emotions.
The infectious energy of “Start Me Up” and the bluesy swagger of “Sympathy for the Devil” further showcase the band’s versatility. With a career spanning decades, The Rolling Stones‘ enduring appeal is a testament to their ability to create music that resonates across generations, solidifying their status as one of the greatest rock bands in history.