The Rolling Stones Albums in Order: The Rolling Stones, formed in London in 1962, are a cornerstone of rock music, blending gritty blues with electrifying energy to define hard rock. With over six decades of music, their discography is a testament to their enduring influence, from the raw energy of their early covers to the polished hits of their later years. For fans and newcomers alike, exploring The Rolling Stones albums in order offers a journey through rock history. This guide provides a chronological list of their studio albums, complete with release dates, standout tracks, and insights into their significance, making it a must-read for classic rock enthusiasts and music historians.
All The Rolling Stones Albums Available on: Apple Music
Also Read: Beatles Albums In Order
All The Rolling Stones Studio Albums in Order
1. The Rolling Stones (1964, UK)/England’s Newest Hit Makers (1964, US)
- Key Tracks: “Not Fade Away,” “Route 66,” “I Just Want to Make Love to You”
- Overview: The Rolling Stones’ debut album, rooted in blues and R&B covers, captured their raw, youthful energy. Recorded at Regent Sound Studios, it showcased their love for artists like Chuck Berry and Muddy Waters. The UK and US versions differed slightly, with the US release titled England’s Newest Hit Makers to capitalize on the British Invasion. The album hit number 1 in the UK and number 11 in the US, establishing the band as a force in rock.
- Fun Fact: The band’s cover of “Not Fade Away” became their first UK top-five hit.
2. 12 X 5 (1964, US)
- Key Tracks: “Time Is on My Side,” “It’s All Over Now,” “Around and Around”
- Overview: Exclusive to the US, 12 X 5 expanded on their debut with more covers and early originals. Recorded at Chess Studios in Chicago, it reflected their blues roots while hinting at their songwriting potential. The album reached number 3 on the Billboard 200, fueled by the success of “It’s All Over Now,” their first UK number 1. It solidified their foothold in the American market.
- Fun Fact: The title 12 X 5 refers to 12 songs and five band members.
3. The Rolling Stones No. 2 (1965, UK)/The Rolling Stones, Now! (1965, US)
- Key Tracks: “Everybody Needs Somebody to Love,” “Heart of Stone,” “Little Red Rooster”
- Overview: This album continued the band’s blues-heavy approach, with covers dominating but originals like “Heart of Stone” showing growth. The UK version hit number 1, while the US The Rolling Stones, Now! reached number 5. Their cover of “Little Red Rooster” became a UK number 1, a bold choice for a blues single.
- Fun Fact: “Little Red Rooster” was banned in some US markets for its suggestive lyrics.
4. Out of Our Heads (1965, UK and US versions different)
- Key Tracks: “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “The Last Time,” “Play with Fire”
- Overview: A pivotal release, Out of Our Heads marked the Stones’ international breakthrough with “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” a global number 1. The album blended R&B covers with Jagger/Richards originals, showcasing their growing confidence. It hit number 1 in the US and number 2 in the UK, cementing their status in the British Invasion.
- Fun Fact: Keith Richards’ iconic “Satisfaction” riff was initially meant as a placeholder.
5. December’s Children (And Everybody’s) (1965, US)
- Key Tracks: “Get Off of My Cloud,” “As Tears Go By,” “I’m Free”
- Overview: A US-only release, this album mixed singles, outtakes, and new tracks. “Get Off of My Cloud” topped charts worldwide, while “As Tears Go By” showed their softer side. It reached number 4 in the US, reflecting their growing popularity. The album’s eclectic mix hinted at their evolving sound.
- Fun Fact: “As Tears Go By” was originally written for Marianne Faithfull.
6. Aftermath (1966, UK and US versions different)
- Key Tracks: “Paint It Black,” “Under My Thumb,” “Lady Jane”
- Overview: Aftermath was the first album entirely composed of Jagger/Richards songs, a landmark in their creative evolution. Brian Jones’ use of sitar and dulcimer added exotic textures. “Paint It Black” became a global hit, and the album hit number 1 in the UK and number 2 in the US. It’s often considered their most important early work.
- Fun Fact: “Goin’ Home” was a nearly 12-minute jam, a rarity for the time.
7. Between the Buttons (1967, UK and US versions different)
- Key Tracks: “Ruby Tuesday,” “Let’s Spend the Night Together,” “Connection”
- Overview: This album leaned into pop and baroque influences, with “Ruby Tuesday” and “Let’s Spend the Night Together” as a double A-side hit. It reached number 3 in the UK and number 2 in the US. The band’s experimentation foreshadowed their psychedelic phase, though it retained their signature edge.
- Fun Fact: The Stones altered “Let’s Spend the Night Together” lyrics for The Ed Sullivan Show.
8. Their Satanic Majesties Request (1967)
- Key Tracks: “She’s a Rainbow,” “2000 Light Years from Home,” “In Another Land”
- Overview: A psychedelic detour, this album was a response to the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper. Critics panned it as derivative, but tracks like “She’s a Rainbow” showcased charm. It reached number 3 in the UK and number 2 in the US. The album marked a creative shift, though the band soon returned to their roots.
- Fun Fact: Bill Wyman sang lead on “In Another Land,” a rare non-Jagger vocal.
9. Beggars Banquet (1968)
- Key Tracks: “Sympathy for the Devil,” “Street Fighting Man,” “No Expectations”
- Overview: A return to blues and roots rock, Beggars Banquet is a classic, with “Sympathy for the Devil” defining their provocative edge. Produced by Jimmy Miller, it hit number 3 in the UK and number 5 in the US. The album marked a creative peak, reflecting the turbulent late 1960s.
- Fun Fact: The original toilet-themed cover was rejected by Decca Records.
10. Let It Bleed (1969)
- Key Tracks: “Gimme Shelter,” “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” “Midnight Rambler”
- Overview: Let It Bleed captured the Stones at their gritty best, blending blues, rock, and country. “Gimme Shelter” became an anthem of the era’s unrest. The album hit number 1 in the UK and number 3 in the US, marking Brian Jones’ final appearance and Mick Taylor’s debut.
- Fun Fact: Merry Clayton’s powerful vocals on “Gimme Shelter” nearly stole the show.
11. Sticky Fingers (1971)
- Key Tracks: “Brown Sugar,” “Wild Horses,” “Dead Flowers”
- Overview: The first album on Rolling Stones Records, Sticky Fingers introduced the iconic tongue logo. With hits like “Brown Sugar,” it topped charts in the UK and US. Mick Taylor’s guitar work shone, and the Andy Warhol-designed cover became legendary. It’s a cornerstone of their discography.
- Fun Fact: The working zipper on the original cover damaged vinyl records.
12. Exile on Main St. (1972)
- Key Tracks: “Tumbling Dice,” “Happy,” “Shine a Light”
- Overview: Recorded in a French villa, Exile on Main St. is a sprawling double album blending rock, blues, and gospel. Initially divisive, it’s now hailed as a masterpiece, hitting number 1 in both the UK and US. Its raw, loose vibe captures the band’s essence.
- Fun Fact: Keith Richards sang lead on “Happy,” a rare vocal turn.
13. Goats Head Soup (1973)
- Key Tracks: “Angie,” “Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker),” “Star Star”
- Overview: Goats Head Soup leaned into ballads like “Angie,” a global hit. While less raw than Exile, it still showcased their versatility. It topped charts in the UK and US but received mixed reviews for its polished sound. Mick Taylor’s contributions remained vital.
- Fun Fact: “Angie” was rumored to be about David Bowie’s wife, though Jagger denied it.
14. It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (1974)
- Key Tracks: “It’s Only Rock ’n Roll (But I Like It),” “Time Waits for No One,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg”
- Overview: The last album with Mick Taylor, It’s Only Rock ’n Roll was produced by the Glimmer Twins (Jagger/Richards). The title track became an anthem, and the album hit number 2 in the UK and number 1 in the US. It balanced rock energy with soulful covers.
- Fun Fact: Ronnie Wood contributed to the title track before joining the band.
15. Black and Blue (1976)
- Key Tracks: “Fool to Cry,” “Hot Stuff,” “Memory Motel”
- Overview: A transitional album, Black and Blue featured funk and reggae influences, with Ronnie Wood joining as Mick Taylor’s replacement. It reached number 2 in the UK and number 1 in the US. The album served as an audition for guitarists, with Wood fitting seamlessly.
- Fun Fact: The band recorded with multiple guitarists, including Jeff Beck.
16. Some Girls (1978)
- Key Tracks: “Miss You,” “Beast of Burden,” “Shattered”
- Overview: A response to punk and disco, Some Girls was a commercial triumph, hitting number 2 in the UK and number 1 in the US. “Miss You” blended disco with their rock roots, becoming a US number 1. The album reinvigorated their career with youthful energy.
- Fun Fact: The original cover caused controversy for featuring celebrity likenesses without permission.
17. Emotional Rescue (1980)
- Key Tracks: “Emotional Rescue,” “She’s So Cold,” “All About You”
- Overview: Continuing the disco-rock blend, Emotional Rescue topped charts in the UK and US. The title track, with Jagger’s falsetto, was a hit, though the album received mixed reviews for lacking Some Girls’ edge. It showcased their adaptability to 1980s trends.
- Fun Fact: Keith Richards sang lead on “All About You,” a soulful ballad.
18. Tattoo You (1981)
- Key Tracks: “Start Me Up,” “Waiting on a Friend,” “Hang Fire”
- Overview: Compiled from outtakes, Tattoo You became a classic, with “Start Me Up” a global anthem. It hit number 2 in the UK and number 1 in the US, driven by polished rock and ballads. Mick Taylor’s contributions from earlier sessions added depth.
- Fun Fact: “Waiting on a Friend” featured jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins.
19. Undercover (1983)
- Key Tracks: “Undercover of the Night,” “She Was Hot,” “Too Much Blood”
- Overview: Undercover tackled political themes with a modern sound, incorporating new wave influences. It reached number 3 in the UK and number 4 in the US but lacked a supporting tour due to Jagger/Richards tensions. The album showed their willingness to experiment.
- Fun Fact: The “Undercover of the Night” video was banned by some networks for its violence.
20. Dirty Work (1986)
- Key Tracks: “Harlem Shuffle,” “One Hit (to the Body),” “Winning Ugly”
- Overview: Recorded amid band tensions, Dirty Work was critically panned but reached number 4 in both the UK and US. With Jagger focusing on solo work, Keith Richards took the lead. The cover of “Harlem Shuffle” was a highlight, blending R&B with rock.
- Fun Fact: The album was dedicated to Ian Stewart, who died in 1985.
21. Steel Wheels (1989)
- Key Tracks: “Mixed Emotions,” “Rock and a Hard Place,” “Almost Hear You Sigh”
- Overview: A comeback album, Steel Wheels reunited the band after a rocky period. It reached number 2 in the UK and number 3 in the US, supported by a massive world tour. The album’s polished rock sound reaffirmed their relevance in the late 1980s.
- Fun Fact: The band recorded “Continental Drift” in Morocco with the Master Musicians of Jajouka.
22. Voodoo Lounge (1994)
- Key Tracks: “Love Is Strong,” “You Got Me Rocking,” “Out of Tears”
- Overview: The first album without Bill Wyman, Voodoo Lounge featured new bassist Darryl Jones. Produced by Don Was, it won a Grammy for Best Rock Album and hit number 1 in the UK and number 2 in the US. The album blended classic and modern rock.
- Fun Fact: The Voodoo Lounge Tour grossed $320 million, a record at the time.
23. Bridges to Babylon (1997)
- Key Tracks: “Anybody Seen My Baby?,” “Saint of Me,” “Out of Control”
- Overview: Bridges to Babylon explored electronic and hip-hop influences, reaching number 6 in the UK and number 3 in the US. The single “Anybody Seen My Baby?” featured Angelina Jolie in its video. The album showed the Stones adapting to 1990s trends.
- Fun Fact: The album’s tour featured a bridge extending into the audience.
24. A Bigger Bang (2005)
- Key Tracks: “Streets of Love,” “Rough Justice,” “Sweet Neo Con”
- Overview: After an eight-year gap, A Bigger Bang was a return to raw rock, hitting number 2 in the UK and number 3 in the US. Jagger’s “Sweet Neo Con” stirred controversy with its political lyrics. The tour set a record for grossing $558 million.
- Fun Fact: The band played to over 1 million people in Rio de Janeiro in 2006.
25. Blue & Lonesome (2016)
- Key Tracks: “Just Your Fool,” “I Gotta Go,” “Hate to See You Go”
- Overview: A return to their blues roots, Blue & Lonesome featured 12 covers recorded in three days. It hit number 1 in the UK and number 4 in the US, earning a Grammy nomination. Eric Clapton guested on two tracks, adding to its authenticity.
- Fun Fact: The album had the second-highest opening sales week in the UK in 2016.
26. Hackney Diamonds (2023)
- Key Tracks: “Angry,” “Sweet Sounds of Heaven,” “Mess It Up”
- Overview: The first original album in 18 years, Hackney Diamonds featured guest stars like Paul McCartney and Lady Gaga. It hit number 1 in the UK, their 14th chart-topper, and number 3 in the US. The album blended modern production with classic Stones energy.
- Fun Fact: Bill Wyman returned for one track, his first since 1991.
How many albums does The Rolling Stones Have?
The English rock group the Rolling Stones have released 31 studio albums, 39 live albums, 28 compilation albums, 3 extended plays, 122 singles, 31 box sets, 51 video albums, 2 video box sets and 77 music videos.
All The Rolling Stones Albums in Order of Release Date
Studio albums:
1. The Rolling Stones (UK) — 17 April 1964
2. England’s Newest Hit Makers (US) — 29 May 1964
3. 12 X 5 (US) — 17 October 1964
4. The Rolling Stones No. 2 (UK) — 15 January 1965
5. The Rolling Stones, Now! (US) — 13 February 1965
6. Out of Our Heads (US) — 30 July 1965
7. Out of Our Heads (UK) — 24 September 1965
8. December’s Children (And Everybody’s) (US) — 3 December 1965
9. Aftermath (UK) — 15 April 1966
10. Aftermath (US) — 1 July 1966
11. Between the Buttons (UK) — 20 January 1967
12. Between the Buttons (US) — 10 February 1967
13. Their Satanic Majesties Request — 8 December 1967
14. Beggars Banquet — 6 December 1968
15. Let It Bleed — 28 November 1969
16. Sticky Fingers — 23 April 1971
17. Exile on Main St. — 26 May 1972
18. Goats Head Soup — 31 August 1973
19. It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll — 18 October 1974
20. Black and Blue — 23 April 1976
21. Some Girl — 9 June 1978
22. Emotional Rescue — 23 June 1980
23. Tattoo You — 24 August 1981
24. Undercover — 7 November 1983
25. Dirty Work — 24 March 1986
26. Steel Wheels — 29 August 1989
27. Voodoo Lounge — 11 July 1994
28. Bridges to Babylon — 29 September 1997
29. A Bigger Ban — 6 September 2005
30. Blue & Lonesome — 2 December 2016
31. Hackney Diamonds — 20 October 2023
The Evolution of The Rolling Stones’ Sound
The Rolling Stones’ sound evolved dramatically over six decades. Their 1960s albums, rooted in blues and R&B, laid the foundation for hard rock with hits like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” The late 1960s saw psychedelic experiments in Their Satanic Majesties Request, followed by a return to gritty roots with Beggars Banquet and Let It Bleed. The 1970s brought polished rock (Sticky Fingers, Exile on Main St.) and disco influences (Some Girls). The 1980s and 1990s embraced new wave and pop-rock, while Blue & Lonesome (2016) revisited their blues origins. Hackney Diamonds (2023) blends modern production with their classic swagger, proving their adaptability.
Why The Rolling Stones’ Discography Matters
The Rolling Stones albums in order tell the story of rock’s evolution. Their music shaped the genre, influencing countless artists from Led Zeppelin to Aerosmith. Albums like Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main St. are cultural touchstones, blending raw energy with lyrical depth. Their ability to adapt—whether embracing disco, punk, or modern rock—keeps their discography relevant. With over 250 million albums sold and four Grammy Awards, the Stones remain a benchmark for rock excellence, making their music history essential for fans and scholars alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Was The Rolling Stones’ First Album?
The Rolling Stones’ first album, The Rolling Stones (UK) or England’s Newest Hit Makers (US), was released in 1964, featuring blues and R&B covers.
How Many Studio Albums Have The Rolling Stones Released?
As of 2023, the Rolling Stones have released 31 studio albums, including Hackney Diamonds, their latest original work.
What Is Considered the Best Rolling Stones Album?
Exile on Main St. (1972) is often cited as their best, praised for its raw, eclectic brilliance, though Sticky Fingers and Let It Bleed are also fan favorites.
Are There Any New Rolling Stones Albums Coming Out?
Hackney Diamonds (2023) is their latest release. Mick Jagger hinted in 2024 that a follow-up album is in progress, potentially releasing soon.
Conclusion:
Exploring The Rolling Stones albums in order is a journey through six decades of rock history, from their blues-soaked debut to the vibrant Hackney Diamonds. Each album captures a moment in their evolution, blending raw energy with cultural impact. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their discography, this guide offers a roadmap to their legacy. Share your favorite Rolling Stones album in the comments, and check out our guide to their best songs for more rock ‘n’ roll magic!
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