By Roger Flores
Mick Jagger is the very essence of cool. In fact if you look up “cool” in the dictionary, well you won’t see a picture of Mick Jagger, but you’ll see the definition of cool, which DEFINITELY describes the man. Comedian John Mulaney even comments on the unbelievable greatness of Jagger, musing in his stand up special “he’s Mick Jagger. THAT’S HIS NAME”. So, as it his 76th birthday today, let’s do the impossible and, in no particular order (as they’re all great), list ONLY 5 of the greatest songs from The Rolling Stones.
The Rolling Stones – (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction [Official Lyric Video]
(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction – the song that is synonymous with rock itself, and also slight bad grammar (but legends get a pass of course)! The song is iconic to even the most casual music listener. When that riff opens up, you know exactly the ride you’re in for. And of course that unbelievably catchy titular chorus. Ironically, I Can’t Get No Satisfaction can also be used to describe anyone’s general mood until they listen to this song honestly.
Beast Of Burden (Remastered)
Beast of Burden – a song that is almost as smooth as Jagger himself! The tune is the perfect Stone’s vehicle, as the overall music is sweet and easy to listen to, and the lyrics pen a more complex sentiment, as Jagger pours his soul out to a lover. It’s what the Stones have always been about, weaving in masterful lyrics to great music with unbelievable ease.
The Rolling Stones – You Can’t Always Get What You Want (Rock and Roll Circus)
You Can’t Always Get What You Want – no Rolling Stones list would be complete without this absolutely soul wrenching and beautiful ballad. The song highlights the band’s ability to find universal truths and turn them into incredible music. The song is the perfect illustration of why the Rolling Stones are the Rolling Stones, not just making music but transcending expectations with storytelling.
You Can’t Always Get What You Want- Rolling Stones
Start Me Up – Sonic proof that The Rolling Stones weren’t meant to just be 60s one offs. Released in 1981, this is not only a Rolling Stones’ essential but a rock essential. The song captures the essence of rock itself; a hard and fast good time. As a bonus, the music video to this track captures perhaps one of the bands more ridiculous releases, but honestly the band is nearly infallible at this point.
The Rolling Stones – Sympathy For The Devil (Official Lyric Video)
Sympathy for the Devil – in the 60s, countless bands tried to capitalize on the British Invasion, and only some would truly stand the test of time. This is one of the many songs that thrusted the Rolling Stones passed just another Beatles copy. Sympathy for the Devil is edgy and daring the best way possible, and this is definitely due in no small part to Jagger’s legendary vocals.