The Rolling Stones, one of the most influential rock bands in history, have always been known for their original sound and groundbreaking music. However, their journey to success was not solely paved by their own compositions. In fact, some of their most iconic hits have been cover songs, a testament to their ability to breathe new life into classic tunes. Over the years, The Rolling Stones have struck it big with cover songs, making them integral to the band’s evolution.
1. “Not Fade Away” – A Nod to Buddy Holly
Released in 1964, “Not Fade Away” was a cover of the Buddy Holly song, which became a pivotal track in The Rolling Stones’ early career. The band’s rendition infused the song with their own raw energy, setting the tone for their future musical journey. The track was a hit and solidified the band’s place in the spotlight. It showed how The Rolling Stones could take inspiration from rock ‘n’ roll legends and make the songs their own.
2. “Little Red Rooster” – The Blues Influence
In 1964, The Rolling Stones released “Little Red Rooster,” a cover of the blues standard written by Willie Dixon. The song was an instant success, reaching number one on the UK charts. What made their version stand out was the band’s authentic blues interpretation, capturing the essence of the genre while adding their signature style. The Rolling Stones’ ability to successfully merge blues influences with rock helped establish them as a versatile band with a unique sound.
3. “Time Is On My Side” – A Classic Reimagined
Another cover that helped The Rolling Stones gain popularity was “Time Is On My Side,” originally recorded by jazz trombonist Kai Winding in 1959. The Stones’ version, released in 1964, became one of their most successful songs. The track’s smooth, yet soulful delivery, with its signature instrumental backing, showcased the band’s ability to take a song from a completely different genre and rework it into something that resonated with rock fans worldwide.
4. “Sympathy For The Devil” – Their Own Spin on the Blues
While not a cover song in its entirety, The Rolling Stones’ “Sympathy For The Devil,” released in 1968, was influenced by traditional blues themes. While it was an original composition by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, its deep-rooted blues rhythm and narrative qualities were shaped by the sounds they had already been exposed to. This track, which became one of their most iconic, exemplifies how the band drew inspiration from blues and folk traditions to create a hit that wasn’t just a cover, but an homage to the genre.
5. “Angie” – A Nod to the Past with a Personal Touch
The Rolling Stones’ 1973 hit, “Angie,” while an original composition, is often considered a cover song in spirit due to its tribute to the classic sound of earlier rock ballads. The haunting piano intro and heartfelt lyrics set the song apart from their usual rock anthems. The song’s ability to tap into emotions that were deeply embedded in the rock tradition earned it worldwide success and proved that The Rolling Stones’ knack for reinterpreting past influences would continue to make them relevant.
In conclusion, while The Rolling Stones are often celebrated for their original contributions to rock music, their success with cover songs cannot be overstated. These covers not only paid homage to their musical influences but also helped them evolve as a band. From Buddy Holly’s rock ‘n’ roll to Willie Dixon’s blues, The Rolling Stones mastered the art of reinterpreting classic tracks, solidifying their legacy as musical pioneers.
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