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The Rolling Stones are more than just a band; they’re a cultural icon whose albums have become a cornerstone in the music industry. When it comes to Rolling Stones albums’ ranking, their discography is a testament to their enduring impact on rock ‘n roll.
With a career spanning over six decades, the Rolling Stones have consistently released albums that resonate with fans old and new. The Rolling Stones albums ranked across various lists often highlight their versatility, from blues-infused tracks to rebellious anthems.
The longevity of their career is unparalleled, making the task of ranking Rolling Stones albums a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Their ability to adapt and evolve over the years makes Rolling Stones albums ranked lists so diverse, reflecting their indelible mark on music history.
Specific classic albums inevitably rise to the top in any discussion about Rolling Stones albums ranked. Albums like “Exile on Main St.,” “Sticky Fingers,” and “Let It Bleed” are often cited as some of the greatest rock albums of all time. These iconic works showcase the band’s musical prowess and capture the zeitgeist of their respective eras. The enduring popularity of these classic albums further solidifies the Rolling Stones’ legacy and adds another layer of complexity to any best Rolling Stones albums list.
The Best Rolling Stones Albums Ranked By Sales
- “Some Girls” (1978) – 6 million copies sold
- “Sticky Fingers” (1971) – 4.5 million copies sold
- “Exile on Main St.” (1972) – 4 million copies sold
- “Let It Bleed” (1969) – 3.5 million copies sold
- “Tattoo You” (1981) – 3 million copies sold
Sales figures are just the tip of the iceberg. They offer a snapshot of the band’s commercial success but don’t capture the emotional impact of each album.
- “Goats Head Soup” (1973) – 2.5 million copies sold
- “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll” (1974) – 2 million copies sold
- “Voodoo Lounge” (1994) – 1.5 million copies sold
- “Bridges to Babylon” (1997) – 1 million copies sold
- “A Bigger Bang” (2005) – 900,000 copies sold
While these albums may not have sold as much, they each have their own unique charm and significance in the Stones’ discography.
The Rolling Stones Notable Live Performances
- The 1969 Altamont Free Concert
- The 1976 Knebworth Fair
- The 1981 Hampton Coliseum
- The 1990 Tokyo Dome
- The 2016 Historic Concert in Havana
Each of these performances has its own story. From the tragic Altamont concert to the groundbreaking Havana show, the Stones have always been larger than life on stage.
The Rolling Stones Top Tracks on Spotify
- “Paint It, Black”
- “Angie”
- “Sympathy for the Devil”
- “Wild Horses”
- “Brown Sugar”
These tracks are not just popular; they’re iconic. They’ve transcended time and genre to become anthems for multiple generations.
The Rolling Stones Album Guests
- Eric Clapton on “Blue & Lonesome”
- Billy Preston on “Sticky Fingers” and “Exile on Main St.”
- Nicky Hopkins on “Goats Head Soup”
- Bobby Keys on “Let It Bleed”
- Chuck Leavell on “Voodoo Lounge”
The Stones have collaborated with some of the greatest musicians of all time. These collaborations have often resulted in some of the most memorable moments in their albums.
The Albums Ranked
- “Exile on Main St.” (1972)
This album is a sprawling double LP. It’s a mix of rock, blues, and country that encapsulates the Stones’ essence. - “Sticky Fingers” (1971)
This album introduced the iconic “zipper” cover. It also features the classic track “Brown Sugar.” - “Let It Bleed” (1969)
This album was released during a tumultuous time. It reflects the societal changes and challenges of the era. - “Some Girls” (1978)
This album was a commercial success. It helped the Stones regain their footing in a changing musical landscape. - “Tattoo You” (1981)
This album features the hit “Start Me Up.” It’s a collection of outtakes that turned into a cohesive masterpiece. - “Goats Head Soup” (1973)
This album includes the hit “Angie.” It’s a softer, more introspective album compared to its predecessors. - “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll” (1974)
This album was the last to feature Mick Taylor. It’s a solid effort but lacks the spark of earlier albums. - “Voodoo Lounge” (1994)
This album won a Grammy. It’s a mature, well-crafted work that deserves more attention. - “Bridges to Babylon” (1997)
This album features modern production techniques. It’s a bold attempt to update the Stones’ sound for a new generation. - “A Bigger Bang” (2005)
This album is a return to basics. It’s a straightforward rock album that proves the Stones still had it. - “Blue & Lonesome” (2016)
This album is a tribute to the blues. It’s a passion project that resonates with long-time fans. - “Black and Blue” (1976)
This album was the first to feature Ronnie Wood. It’s a transitional album that explores new musical directions. - “Emotional Rescue” (1980)
This album features the disco hit “Emotional Rescue.” It’s a divisive album that has its moments. - “Steel Wheels” (1989)
This album marked the end of the Stones’ “classic” era. It’s a fitting swan song for the original lineup. - “Undercover” (1983)
This album experiments with new wave and reggae. It’s an interesting but flawed effort. - “Dirty Work” (1986)
This album was poorly received. It’s a low point in an otherwise stellar career.
Conclusion: The Rolling Stones – The Soundtrack of Our Lives
The Rolling Stones are not just a band; they’re a living, breathing history of rock ‘n roll. Their albums serve as milestones in a journey that has spanned over six decades and shows no signs of stopping.
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So there you have it, an expanded and comprehensive ranking of The Rolling Stones’ albums. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering their music, this guide offers a deep dive into one of the greatest rock bands of all time.