“Uncharted Brilliance: The 30 Best Rolling Stones Songs That Never Topped the Charts”
The Rolling Stones, often regarded as the “World’s Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band,” boast a catalog of timeless hits that have defined generations. While some of their tracks have ascended to the coveted No. 1 spot on the charts, many gems remain hidden in the shadows, overlooked but undeniably brilliant. Here, we delve into the 30 best Rolling Stones songs that, surprisingly, never clinched the top spot.
1. **”Gimme Shelter” (1969):** A haunting masterpiece that captures the essence of the tumultuous ’60s, “Gimme Shelter” stands as a testament to the Stones’ ability to channel the spirit of an era.
2. **”Brown Sugar” (1971):** Despite its controversial lyrics, this riff-driven anthem is a quintessential Stones classic, forever etched in the annals of rock history.
3. **”Wild Horses” (1971):** A poignant ballad showcasing Mick Jagger’s emotive vocals and Keith Richards’ soulful guitar work, “Wild Horses” is a gem that transcends time.
4. **”Angie” (1973):** This acoustic-driven ballad, fueled by Mick Jagger’s heartfelt lyrics, resonates with a tender vulnerability that sets it apart from the Stones’ more raucous hits.
5. **”Tumbling Dice” (1972):** A rollicking, blues-infused track that epitomizes the Stones’ signature swagger, “Tumbling Dice” is a fan favorite that never reached the summit.
6. **”Paint It, Black” (1966):** With its sitar-infused melody and evocative lyrics, this psychedelic gem remains a standout in the Stones’ discography.
7. **”You Can’t Always Get What You Want” (1969):** A sprawling epic that seamlessly blends rock, gospel, and orchestral elements, showcasing the band’s musical versatility.
8. **”Miss You” (1978):** A disco-inflected departure from their traditional sound, “Miss You” is a testament to the Stones’ ability to evolve with the times.
9. **”Jumpin’ Jack Flash” (1968):** Despite not reaching the No. 1 spot, this gritty anthem has become synonymous with the raw, rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
10. **”Beast of Burden” (1978):** A soulful ballad featuring Jagger’s impassioned vocals and a memorable guitar riff, “Beast of Burden” remains a hidden treasure.
From the bluesy grit of “Midnight Rambler” to the infectious energy of “Start Me Up,” the Rolling Stones’ discography is a treasure trove of songs that, despite never securing a No. 1 position, have left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans worldwide. Each track on this list is a testament to the enduring brilliance of the Stones, proving that chart positions may come and go, but great music is timeless. So, crank up the volume, rediscover these hidden gems, and let the uncharted brilliance of the Rolling Stones unfold.
