The Most Popular Rolling Stones Song, Ranked

Choose the song you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 28, 2024 06:47
Among the waves of music history, the iconic tunes of the Rolling Stones have sailed through decades, charting a course rich in rhythm and rebellion. Fans might sway in unison to the classics, but ask which song hits the hardest, and you'll witness a thrilling debate. Creating a ranked list of these songs not only fuels this engaging conversation but also serves as a curated archive of their groundbreaking impact. This list, dynamically sculpted by your votes, reflects not just personal favorites but also the collective resonance of the Rolling Stones' work through generations. By participating, you're contributing to a living, breathing record that epitomizes the spirit of rock and roll. Your vote helps paint a clearer picture of how these legendary tracks inspire and influence, piecing together a mosaic of musical admiration.

What Is the Most Popular Rolling Stones Song?

  1. 1
    75
    votes

    (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction

    The Rolling Stones
    This iconic song is often considered the Rolling Stones' signature tune, featuring Keith Richards' instantly recognizable guitar riff and Mick Jagger's rebellious lyrics.
    (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction is a hit song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1965. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs in history and a defining track of the band. The song features a catchy guitar riff, energetic vocals by Mick Jagger, and lyrics that express disillusionment with commercialism and the media. It became an anthem for the countercultural movement of the 1960s.
    • Release year: 1965
    • Genre: Rock
    • Length: 3:43
    • Songwriter(s): Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
    • Album: Out of Our Heads
  2. 2
    37
    votes

    Paint It Black

    The Rolling Stones
    A haunting and intense track with a distinctive sitar riff, "Paint It Black" became a massive hit for the Stones in 1966.
    Paint It Black is a popular Rolling Stones song released in 1966. It was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards and produced by Andrew Loog Oldham. The song features a distinctive driving beat, haunting Eastern-inspired melodies, and lyrics that explore themes of loss, darkness, and emotional struggle. With its introspective lyrics and captivating sound, Paint It Black became one of the band's most iconic songs, showcasing their ability to push musical boundaries. The song's popularity has been further solidified by its inclusion in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
    • Release date: May 6, 1966
    • Duration: 3 minutes and 22 seconds
    • Genre: Rock
    • Album: Aftermath
    • Writers: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
  3. 3
    25
    votes

    Sympathy for the Devil

    The Rolling Stones
    With its dark, hypnotic groove and lyrics inspired by the work of French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre, "Sympathy for the Devil" is a standout track from the Stones' 1968 album Beggars Banquet.
    Sympathy for the Devil is a classic rock song by the Rolling Stones. It was released as the opening track on their 1968 album Beggars Banquet. The song is known for its infectious rhythm and the provocative lyrics that touch upon themes of evil, temptation, and human nature. Sympathy for the Devil showcases the Rolling Stones' ability to blend rock, blues, and folk influences into a powerful and memorable track. The song features iconic lead vocals by Mick Jagger, backed by a dynamic arrangement of guitars, bass, drums, and percussion.
    • Album: Beggars Banquet
    • Release Year: 1968
    • Genre: Rock
    • Length: 6:18
    • Lead Vocals: Mick Jagger
  4. 4
    20
    votes

    Gimme Shelter

    The Rolling Stones
    Featuring powerful vocals from Merry Clayton and a driving rhythm section, "Gimme Shelter" is a classic Stones track and a highlight of their 1969 album Let It Bleed.
    Gimme Shelter is a powerful and iconic song by the Rolling Stones, released in 1969. It serves as the opening track to their album 'Let It Bleed' and is widely considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time. The song features a haunting and intense combination of rock, blues, and gospel influences, characterized by Mick Jagger's passionate vocals and the soulful backup vocals of Merry Clayton. Gimme Shelter tackles themes of political unrest, war, and the desperation for salvation in tumultuous times.
    • Album: Let It Bleed
    • Release Year: 1969
    • Genre: Rock
    • Length: 4:31
    • Lead Vocals: Mick Jagger
  5. 5
    17
    votes

    Jumpin' Jack Flash

    The Rolling Stones
    One of the Stones' most enduring hits, "Jumpin' Jack Flash" features a memorable guitar riff and Mick Jagger's swaggering vocals.
    Jumpin' Jack Flash is a song by the Rolling Stones, released in 1968. It is a rock and roll classic that incorporates elements of blues and psychedelia. The song's lyrics describe a person's struggle and perseverance through difficult times, with the phrase 'Jumpin' Jack Flash' representing the indomitable spirit and resilience. It is known for its catchy guitar riff, energetic vocals, and driving rhythm section.
    • Release Date: 1968
    • Genre: Rock and roll, blues, psychedelia
    • Length: 3:43
    • Writer(s): Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
    • Producer: Jimmy Miller
  6. 6
    8
    votes
    Brown Sugar
    Moe Rubenzahl · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Brown Sugar

    The Rolling Stones
    A raunchy, bluesy track with lyrics that caused controversy upon its release, "Brown Sugar" remains a fan favorite and concert staple for the Stones.
    Brown Sugar is a rock song by the Rolling Stones. It was released as a single in 1971 and also appears on their album 'Sticky Fingers.' The song is known for its catchy guitar riffs, driving rhythm, and rousing vocals by Mick Jagger. It has become one of the band's most iconic and popular hits, often performed in their live concerts. Brown Sugar has a raw and energetic sound, combining elements of rock, blues, and soul.
    • Release Year: 1971
    • Album: Sticky Fingers
    • Genre: Rock
    • Length: 3 minutes and 50 seconds
    • Songwriters: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
  7. 7
    12
    votes

    Start Me Up

    The Rolling Stones
    A catchy, upbeat rock song with a memorable guitar riff, "Start Me Up" was a major hit for the Stones in 1981.
    Start Me Up is a popular rock song by the Rolling Stones. It was released as the lead single from their 1981 album Tattoo You. The song features a distinctive guitar riff and energetic vocals, capturing the raw and rebellious spirit of the band.
    • Album: Tattoo You
    • Release Date: August 1981
    • Genre: Rock
    • Songwriter(s): Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
    • Producer: The Glimmer Twins (Mick Jagger, Keith Richards)
  8. 8
    8
    votes

    Honky Tonk Women

    The Rolling Stones
    A rollicking, country-tinged track with a memorable hook, "Honky Tonk Women" was a massive hit for the Stones in 1969.
    Honky Tonk Women is a classic Rolling Stones song that was released in 1969. It is known for its catchy country-blues rhythm and gritty lyrics. The song depicts a man's encounters with various female companions in honky tonk bars. It has become one of the band's most beloved and enduring hits, showcasing their signature rock sound mixed with elements of country and blues.
    • Release Date: 1969
    • Genre: Rock, Country, Blues
    • Album: Single, later included in 'Through the Past, Darkly (Big Hits Vol. 2)'
    • Song Length: 3 minutes and 1 second
    • Songwriter(s): Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
  9. 9
    7
    votes

    Tumbling Dice

    The Rolling Stones
    Featuring a funky groove and playful lyrics, "Tumbling Dice" is a standout track from the Stones' 1972 album Exile on Main St.
    Tumbling Dice is a highly popular rock song by the Rolling Stones. It was first released in 1972 as the lead single from their album 'Exile on Main St.' The song features catchy guitar riffs, soulful vocals, and a lively rhythm section, making it a quintessential Stones track.
    • Release Date: 1972
    • Album: Exile on Main St.
    • Genre: Rock
    • Song Length: 3:45
    • Songwriters: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards
  10. 10
    5
    votes

    Beast of Burden

    Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
    A soulful ballad with a memorable guitar riff and Mick Jagger's emotive vocals, "Beast of Burden" has become a beloved classic rock song.
    Beast of Burden is a rock song by the Rolling Stones, released in 1978 as part of their album 'Some Girls'. It is written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards and is one of the band's most popular and enduring tracks.
    • Year of release: 1978
    • Album: 'Some Girls'
    • Genre: Rock
    • Length: 4:25
    • Songwriters: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards

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Ranking factors for popular song

  1. Chart performance
    Analyze how well the song performed on music charts, such as the Billboard Hot 100, UK Singles Chart, and other international charts. A high chart position indicates that the song was popular during its time of release.
  2. Sales and streaming figures
    Evaluate the sales and streaming figures of the song, including physical sales, digital downloads, and streaming platforms such as Spotify and YouTube. A song with high sales and streaming numbers would indicate its popularity.
  3. Airplay
    Assess the song's performance on radio airplay charts, indicating how frequently it was played on the radio. Songs that experienced significant airplay are generally more popular.
  4. Awards and recognition
    Consider any awards or recognition the song may have received, such as Grammy Awards, MTV Music Video Awards, or any other music industry accolades. These honours indicate that the song was not only commercially successful but also critically acclaimed.
  5. Longevity and cultural impact
    Evaluate the song's longevity and its impact on pop culture, including its use in film, television, advertising, and its influence on other artists. This will help determine how well the song has aged and maintained its popularity over the years.
  6. Live performances
    Assess the frequency and prominence of the song in the Rolling Stones' live performances and concert tours. A song that is a consistent part of their setlist indicates its popularity among fans.
  7. Critical reception
    Analyze professional reviews and opinions on the song from music journalists and critics. Although critical reception may not always align with public opinion, it can provide some valuable insights into the song's popularity.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Rolling Stones song. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or song is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1487 views
  • 220 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each song once every 24 hours. The rank of each song is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most popular rolling stones song

The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic rock bands in history, with a career spanning over six decades. Their music has influenced generations of musicians and fans around the world, and their extensive discography boasts countless classic hits. From "Satisfaction" to "Paint It Black," the Rolling Stones have created some of the most memorable songs in rock history. With so many incredible tracks to choose from, it's no wonder that fans are constantly debating which one is the best. In this article, we'll explore the most popular Rolling Stones songs according to the votes of StrawPoll users. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to rock out to some of the greatest tunes of all time!

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