The Rolling Stones have announced their first album of original studio material in nearly 20 years. Hackney Diamonds will be unveiled to the world on October 20th.
So, before we begin, check out ‘Angry’, the lead single from that forthcoming album.
Start me up! The top 10 Rolling Stones singles of all time
- 12 Oct 2023
A guided tour through some of the band’s most iconic tracks ahead of the release of Hackney Diamonds on October 20th.
The band, now entering into their 6th decade of existence (yes, you read that currently), blames the absence of new material on being a smidge too laid back, with Jagger recently telling The Guardian that the band “were maybe a bit too lazy”.
A cursory glance through the band’s touring schedule over the past 20 years would dismiss any notions of The Rolling Stones being a lazy band. They have easily been one of the most consistent, vibrant forces in rock music since their foundation in the early 60s.
With the looming Hackney Diamonds on the horizon, it’s fair to say that it’s Stones’ season, and we’re going to mark the occasion by penning a few articles examining a few different aspects of the band’s career to-date.
Today, we start by looking at 10 of their most popular, commercially successful singles.
‘Miss You’
A stone called classic from 1978. ‘Miss You’ is a fusion of rock and disco, featuring infectious rhythms and Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals. The song reflects themes of longing and loneliness, with a catchy chorus that made it a chart-topping hit, showcasing the band’s versatile musicality.
‘Angie’
Released in 1973, ‘Angie’ is a heartfelt ballad known for its melancholic melody and Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals. One of rock’s archetypal slow, maudlin ballads. Spent some time on the number 1 spot of the Billboard Hot 100.
‘Honky Tonk Women’
‘Honky Tony Women’ is a rollicking rock and roll anthem. With its infectious guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s swaggering vocals, the song exudes a sense of wild, carefree energy. It’s a timeless representation of the band’s ability to create irresistible, party-starting rock music.
‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction’
The most iconic guitar riff of all time? It’s certainly up there. ‘Satisfaction’ is a rock song that defined a generation. The track’s enduring popularity showcases the band’s enduring impact on rock music history.
‘Ruby Tuesday’
‘Ruby Tuesday’ by the Rolling Stones, released in 1967, is a tender and introspective ballad. With its gentle melody and poetic lyrics, the song explores themes of change, nostalgia, and the fleeting nature of relationships. It showcases the band’s versatility and ability to create emotionally resonant music beyond their trademark rock and roll sound.
‘Get Off My Cloud’
A Brain Jones era classic. ‘Get Off My Cloud’ is a declaration of independence and a rejection of societal pressures. The track captures the rebellious spirit of the 1960s and remains a staple of the band’s live performances.
‘Brown Sugar’
A contentious pick considering its very dated lyrical content, but ‘Brown Sugar’ was a number single, so it’s included here all the same.
‘Paint It Black
‘Paint It Black’ by the Rolling Stones, released in 1966, is a dark and hypnotic rock song. Characterized by its distinctive sitar-driven melody and Mick Jagger’s haunting vocals, it explores themes of grief and transformation. The song’s evocative sound and lyrics have made it a timeless and influential part of the band’s catalog.
‘Start Me Up’
‘Start Me Up’ by the Rolling Stones, released in 1981, is a high-energy rock anthem. Driven by Keith Richards’ memorable guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s dynamic vocals, it’s a song of excitement and anticipation. It’s also the last time the Rolling Stones topped the charts for a single, who knows if that will change with the release of Hackney Diamonds?
‘Jumping Jack Flash’
‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash’ by the Rolling Stones, released in 1968, is a quintessential rock song. It’s defined by its instantly recognizable guitar riff, Mick Jagger’s charismatic vocals, and a raw, rebellious energy.