The Rolling Stones stand out as one of the pioneers of the gritty, rhythmically driven sound that defined the early rock and roll era. With a career that spans seven decades, the English rock band first formed in the hustle and bustle of London in 1962. Mick Jagger led as the vocalist, alongside guitarist Keith Richards, multi-instrumentalist Brian Jones, bassist Bill Wyman, and drummer Charlie Watts.
The Rolling Stones started performing covers at the forefront of the British Invasion in 1954 and became linked with the youthful counterculture of the 1960s. They then achieved commercial success with their material, including international number one hits ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction’, ‘Get off My Cloud’, and ‘Paint It Back’ and their debut album ‘Aftermath.’
In 1967, they released their double-sided breakthrough ‘Ruby Tuesday’/’Let’s Spend the Night Together’ and experimented with psychedelic rock on album ‘Their Satanic Majesties Request’. Returning to their rhythm and blues signature style with ‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash’ and ‘Honky Tonk Women’, and album ‘Beggars Banquet’ which spawned the iconic singles ‘Sympathy for the Devil’ and ‘Street Fighting Man’. The album ‘Let it Bleed’ followed soon after, with tracks ‘You Can’t Always Get What You Want’ and ‘Gimme Shelter’.
The Rolling Stones achieved their eighth consecutive number one studio album in the US with ‘Sticky Fingers’. ‘Exile on Main St.’, ‘Goats Head Soup’, and the vibrant ‘Some Girls’ followed alongside several more, which sparked large stadium and arena tours. By 2007, the band had recorded the all-time highest-grossing concert tour three times and was the highest-earning live act of 2021.
The Rolling Stones’ first album of original material in 18 years, ‘Hackney Diamonds’, arrived in 2023, marking their fourteenth UK number one album. The rock legends have sold over 250 million records worldwide, achieving three Grammy Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award. 1989 they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004.
How did The Rolling Stones get their name?
The Rolling Stones’ name was inspired by Chicago blues-rock legend Muddy Waters’ track ‘Rollin’ Stone’.
Who wrote The Rolling Stones songs?
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards formed a strong songwriting partnership, crafting most of The Rolling Stones’ well-known songs.
What is The Rolling Stones' biggest hit?
The Rolling Stones’ 1965 single ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction’ is their most famous and has been streamed over 600 million times on Spotify and YouTube.
Who are the current members of The Rolling Stones?
Following the deaths of Brian Jones and Charlie Watts, the Rolling Stones' 2024 members are Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood.
For more information on upcoming Rolling Stones tour dates and tickets, please visit their official website.