The Rolling Stones, a band that has defined rock 'n' roll for decades, have proven that quality truly does triumph over quantity. Despite a relatively sparse output in the 21st century, their albums since 2000 have been nothing short of exceptional. From the bluesy 'Blue & Lonesome' to the anthemic 'A Bigger Bang' and the recent 'Hackney Diamonds', each release showcases the band's enduring spirit and musical prowess. But what makes these songs truly stand out is the way they capture the essence of the Stones' legacy while also evolving with the times. In my opinion, this is what makes the Rolling Stones so captivating - their ability to stay relevant and fresh, even as they embrace their age and the wisdom that comes with it. So, let's dive into the 15 best Rolling Stones songs of the 21st century, and explore the magic that keeps this band so beloved.
The Stones' 21st Century Magic
The Rolling Stones have always been known for their raw, unfiltered rock 'n' roll, and the 21st century has been no exception. Despite a relatively sparse output, each release has been a masterpiece in its own right. From the bluesy 'Blue & Lonesome' to the anthemic 'A Bigger Bang' and the recent 'Hackney Diamonds', each album showcases the band's enduring spirit and musical prowess. But what makes these songs truly stand out is the way they capture the essence of the Stones' legacy while also evolving with the times.
'Don't Stop'
This song, written for the band's 40th anniversary compilation 'Forty Licks', is a testament to the Stones' enduring appeal. With its catchy riff and Mick Jagger's rhythmic guitar work, it's a song that gets stuck in your head. But what makes it truly special is the way it captures the band's energy and enthusiasm, even as they approach their fifth decade together. Personally, I think this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to stay fresh and relevant, even as they embrace their age and the wisdom that comes with it.
'Losing My Touch'
This song, from the same 'Forty Licks' compilation, is a more introspective piece. With its laid-back arrangement and vulnerable lyrics, it's a song that speaks to the human experience. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical prowess, with Ron Wood's pedal steel guitar and Charlie Watts' subtle drum work adding depth and texture to the song. In my opinion, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Rough Justice'
This song, from the album 'A Bigger Bang', is a classic Stones track through and through. With its powerful riff and sharp lyrics, it's a song that demands attention. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical evolution, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. From my perspective, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to stay true to their roots while also pushing the boundaries of their sound.
'It Won't Take Long'
This song, also from 'A Bigger Bang', is a driving, anthemic track that showcases the band's musical prowess. With its muscular groove and guitar interplay, it's a song that gets your heart pumping. But what makes it truly special is the way it captures the band's energy and enthusiasm, even as they approach their 60s. Personally, I think this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Laugh, I Nearly Died'
This song, from 'A Bigger Bang', is a more introspective piece. With its sultry, soulful groove and delicate guitar interplay, it's a song that speaks to the human experience. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical evolution, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. From my perspective, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Rain Fall Down'
This song, from 'A Bigger Bang', is a subtle, impressionistic observation of urban decay. With its funk groove and hint of reggae guitar tone, it's a song that demands attention. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical prowess, with Darryl Jones' smooth but halting bass line adding depth and texture to the song. In my opinion, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'All of Your Love'
This song, from the album 'Blue & Lonesome', is a throwback to the band's roots. With its guitar-forward sound and soulful vocals, it's a song that speaks to the band's bluesy side. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical evolution, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. From my perspective, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Blue and Lonesome'
This song, also from 'Blue & Lonesome', is a breathtaking exercise in the band's bluesy side. With its forceful vocal and harmonica playing, it's a song that speaks to the band's roots. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical prowess, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. In my opinion, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Bite My Head Off'
This song, from the album 'Hackney Diamonds', is a defiant raver with a hot guitar stack and Mick Jagger's harmonica adding fuel to the attack. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical evolution, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. From my perspective, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'The Whole Wide World'
This song, also from 'Hackney Diamonds', is a driving rocker with ferocious Wood solos. But what makes it truly special is the way it captures the band's energy and enthusiasm, even as they approach their 80s. Personally, I think this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to stay fresh and relevant, even as they embrace their age and the wisdom that comes with it.
'Sweet Sounds of Heaven'
This song, from 'Hackney Diamonds', is a seven-and-a-half-minute epic with Lady Gaga joining Jagger on vocals and Stevie Wonder playing keyboards. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical prowess, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. In my opinion, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Divine Intervention'
This song, from the upcoming 'Foreign Tongues' album, is a rocker with the Cure's Robert Smith adding another layer of bite to the guitar attack. But what makes it truly special is the way it captures the band's energy and enthusiasm, even as they approach their 70s. From my perspective, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to stay fresh and relevant, even as they embrace their age and the wisdom that comes with it.
'Hit Me in the Head'
This song, also from 'Foreign Tongues', is a defiant raver with a hot guitar stack and Jagger's harmonica adding fuel to the attack. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical evolution, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. In my opinion, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Rough and Twisted'
This song, from 'Foreign Tongues', is a striding blues with slashing guitars and Jagger's harmonica. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical prowess, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. From my perspective, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
'Some of Us'
This song, from 'Foreign Tongues', is a heartstring-tugger with Richards on his knees begging for 'a little loving'. But what makes it truly special is the way it showcases the band's musical evolution, with a sound that is both familiar and fresh. In my opinion, this song is a perfect example of the Stones' ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply personal.
In conclusion, the Rolling Stones' 21st century songs are a testament to the band's enduring spirit and musical prowess. From the bluesy 'Blue & Lonesome' to the anthemic 'A Bigger Bang' and the recent 'Hackney Diamonds', each release showcases the band's ability to stay fresh and relevant, even as they embrace their age and the wisdom that comes with it. So, whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the Stones' music, these songs are sure to captivate and inspire.
