Ranking the Legendary Albums of The Rolling Stones: A Rock ‘n’ Roll Journey

The Rolling Stones are undoubtedly one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll bands of all time. With a career spanning over six decades, they have released numerous iconic albums that have shaped the landscape of rock music. In this article, we will take a deep dive into their legendary discography and rank their albums in reverse order, highlighting their musical evolution and impact. Strap in for a thrilling rock ‘n’ roll journey!

16. “Dirty Work” (1986)

Starting off our list is “Dirty Work,” an album that marked a turbulent period for the band. With interpersonal conflicts and drug issues impacting their creativity, the album lacks the classic Stones sound. Despite a few catchy tracks like “Harlem Shuffle,” the overall material feels uninspired and disjointed. It is undoubtedly their weakest release.

15. “Steel Wheels” (1989)

“Steel Wheels” signaled a comeback for The Rolling Stones after a few lackluster efforts. While it boasts a handful of memorable tracks like “Mixed Emotions” and “Rock and a Hard Place,” the album lacks the raw energy and experimentation of their earlier work. It still remains a solid release, but not among their most groundbreaking efforts.

14. “Bridges to Babylon” (1997)

Released in the late ’90s, “Bridges to Babylon” showcased The Rolling Stones experimenting with electronic elements and contemporary production techniques. While the album received mixed reviews upon release, it is still home to gems like “Anybody Seen My Baby?” and “Saint of Me.” It is an interesting departure, but falls short of their true greatness.

13. “A Bigger Bang” (2005)

“A Bigger Bang” saw The Rolling Stones returning to their bluesy roots with a gritty and energetic sound. The album features standout tracks such as “Rough Justice” and “Streets of Love,” showcasing the band’s ability to rock after all these years. While it may not reach the heights of their earlier classics, it is a solid addition to their catalog.

12. “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll” (1974)

Coming in at number twelve is “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll,” an album that straddles the line between their early gritty sound and their later polished rock sound. Featuring the iconic title track and the bluesy “Time Waits for No One,” it captures The Rolling Stones in a transitional phase. Although it lacks coherence, it still contains enough gems to make it a worthwhile listen.

11. “Black and Blue” (1976)

“Black and Blue” brought a funkier sound to The Rolling Stones’ repertoire, incorporating elements of reggae and disco. The album showcases Mick Jagger’s versatility as a vocalist, while tracks like “Fool to Cry” and “Hot Stuff” remain fan favorites. While it received mixed reviews upon release, it is an underrated gem within their discography.

10. “Goats Head Soup” (1973)

At number ten, we have “Goats Head Soup,” an album that exemplifies The Rolling Stones’ versatility and ability to experiment. Featuring the classic hit “Angie,” the album delves into soulful ballads and bluesy rockers. While it may not be as consistent as their earlier works, it still cements their status as one of rock music’s greatest acts.

9. “Undercover” (1983)

“Undercover” finds The Rolling Stones embracing the emerging new wave and synth-pop sound of the ’80s. The album successfully infuses their signature rock ‘n’ roll with electronic elements. Tracks like “Undercover of the Night” and “She Was Hot” showcase their ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.

8. “Some Girls” (1978)

“Some Girls” is a testament to The Rolling Stones’ rejuvenation after a period of creative stagnation. The album incorporates elements of punk, disco, and new wave, resulting in a fresh and edgy sound. Standout tracks like “Miss You” and “Beast of Burden” solidify its place as one of their best efforts of the late ’70s.

7. “Tattoo You” (1981)

Despite being primarily a compilation of outtakes and unfinished tracks, “Tattoo You” stands as one of The Rolling Stones’ strongest releases. The album features hits like “Start Me Up” and “Waiting on a Friend,” showcasing their ability to craft timeless rock anthems. It remains a fan favorite and a must-listen for any Stones enthusiast.

6. “Between the Buttons” (1967)

“Between the Buttons” is an often overlooked gem in The Rolling Stones’ discography. Released during their transition from bluesy rock to a more psychedelic sound, the album showcases their growth as songwriters. Tracks like “Ruby Tuesday” and “Let’s Spend the Night Together” demonstrate a more introspective and sophisticated side of the band.

5. “Aftermath” (1966)

“Aftermath” marks a turning point in The Rolling Stones’ career, as it is their first album to consist entirely of Jagger/Richards compositions. The album delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and social commentary, with tracks like “Paint It Black” and “Under My Thumb” becoming timeless classics. It solidifies their status as one of the most important bands of the ’60s.

4. “Sticky Fingers” (1971)

“Sticky Fingers” is a masterpiece that showcases The Rolling Stones at the height of their creative powers. With hits like “Brown Sugar” and “Wild Horses,” the album seamlessly blends rock, blues, and country elements. Its iconic cover art, featuring a working zipper designed by Andy Warhol, became instantly recognizable. It is a must-have for any rock music enthusiast.

3. “Let It Bleed” (1969)

“Let It Bleed” is a dark and gritty masterpiece that captures The Rolling Stones’ transition into the ’70s. With unforgettable tracks like “Gimme Shelter” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” the album exudes a sense of urgency and raw energy. It is a testament to the band’s ability to reflect the turbulent times through their music.

2. “Exile on Main St.” (1972)

Claiming the runner-up spot is “Exile on Main St.,” a sprawling double album that embodies The Rolling Stones’ rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Combining elements of blues, country, and gospel, the album is a raw and unfiltered masterpiece. Tracks like “Tumbling Dice” and “Shine a Light” showcase their musical prowess and make it an essential addition to any music collection.

1. “Beggars Banquet” (1968)

Securing the top spot is “Beggars Banquet,” a game-changing album that redefined The Rolling Stones’ sound. It marked the beginning of their exploration into rootsy rock and stripped-down blues. The album’s timeless tracks, including “Sympathy for the Devil” and “Street Fighting Man,” solidify its status as a rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece. It remains a cornerstone of their discography and a testament to their musical brilliance.

The Rolling Stones have left an indelible mark on rock ‘n’ roll history, with their discography serving as a testament to their enduring talent and influence. From their gritty bluesy beginnings to their experimentation with various genres, their albums have consistently pushed boundaries and captivated audiences. While this list represents a subjective ranking, it highlights the evolution and impact of The Rolling Stones’ legendary albums. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, exploring their discography is a rock ‘n’ roll journey you won’t want to miss.