In the pantheon of rock and roll, few bands have carved a legacy quite like The Rolling Stones. Emerging from London’s vibrant music scene in the early 1960s, the band, led by the iconic Mick Jagger and fueled by the songwriting partnership with Keith Richards, quickly rose to superstardom.
Their brand of blues-infused rock and roll ignited stadiums worldwide, with their electrifying energy leaving audiences breathless. Even today, decades after their formation, they continue to release new music, their latest album, Hackney Diamonds, being a testament to their enduring creative spirit.
However, even the most legendary bands have their fair share of critics. Some might find Jagger’s flamboyant stage presence a bit too much, while others might scoff at their seemingly endless reign in the music industry. But longevity and success can sometimes breed a certain level of resistance.
Here’s the thing: despite the naysayers, The Rolling Stones’ music remains undeniable. We’ve compiled a list of three Rolling Stones songs so good, so undeniably catchy, that even the most dedicated skeptic might find themselves tapping their foot and humming along.
“Start Me Up”, Tattoo You (1981)
“Start Me Up” perfectly embodies the spirit of The Rolling Stones. Released in 1981 on their album Tattoo You, the song is a testament to their relentless energy. The iconic music video features a flamboyant Jagger, channeling his inner peacock in a purple shirt. The music itself is infectiously catchy, a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
The song opens with a powerful declaration: “If you start me up / If you start me up, I’ll never stop.” This sets the tone for a high-octane track, fueled by Jagger’s signature vocals. The lyrics speak of pent-up energy and a desire to keep going, never stopping the momentum.
The chorus becomes an insistent chant: “Never stop, never stop, never stop.” It’s a testament to the Stones’ enduring legacy and their ability to deliver timeless rock anthems.
“Paint It, Black”, Aftermath (1966)
“Paint It, Black” stands out as a truly unique track in The Rolling Stones’ vast discography. Originally released as a single in 1966, it later found its place on the US version of their album Aftermath. The song’s genesis lies in a sitar improvisation by Brian Jones, a founding member of the band. This Eastern influence, combined with the Stones’ signature rock sound, creates a captivating and unexpected soundscape.
Musically, “Paint It, Black” is a departure from their usual blues-rock style. It has a darker, more introspective vibe, full of depth and surprising twists. This darkness is a key element that continues to resonate with fans. The lyrics delve into themes of loss and despair, with Jagger’s iconic vocals singing: “I see a red door / And I want it painted black / No colors anymore / I want them to turn black.”
The song’s haunting melody and powerful imagery have made it a fixture in pop culture. Used in countless films and television shows, “Paint It, Black” remains a testament to The Rolling Stones’ ability to push boundaries and create truly enduring music.
“Can’t You Hear Me Knocking”, Sticky Fingers (1971)
“Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” from the Rolling Stones’ legendary 1971 album Sticky Fingers boasts one of the most instantly recognizable guitar intros in classic rock. The song itself starts strong, featuring Jagger’s signature raspy vocals. Originally intended to be a concise track under three minutes, it took a surprising turn.
Unaware the recording machine was still running, the band launched into an extended jam session that stretched past four minutes. This happy accident, as some might call it (channeling the spirit of Bob Ross perhaps), turned into a defining moment for the song.
Juxtaposed against the bluesy opening, the lyrics paint a vivid picture, with Jagger singing: “Yeah, you got satin shoes / Yeah, you got plastic boots / Y’all got cocaine eyes / Yeah, you got speed freak jive, now.” The song’s central question, “Can’t you hear me knocking?” becomes a desperate plea that builds alongside the escalating jam, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.