The Rolling Stones are arguably the greatest singles band in rock history, but their album discography tells a more complex story. It is a trajectory that moves from energetic imitation to blues purism, explodes into a string of masterpieces, survives a messy mid-life crisis, and concludes with a surprisingly strong modern era.
Here is the timeline of the band’s studio output, categorized by era.
Goats Head Soup (1973) Coming off the high of Exile, this album is often derided as "sludge," but time has been kind to it. It’s sleazier and slower. It features "Angie," their biggest ballad hit. Highlight: "Dancing with Mr. D." the rolling stones discography blogspot upd
It's Only Rock 'n Roll (1974) The last album with Mick Taylor. The title track sums up the band's philosophy: they aren't trying to be art-rock saviors; they are just a rock and roll band. It’s a solid, if not transcendent, record. Highlight: "Time Waits for No One."
After Bridges, the studio output slowed to a crawl, but the quality surprisingly went up. The Rolling Stones are arguably the greatest singles
A Bigger Bang (2005) A shockingly good late-career highlight. Recorded with just the core four members, it is loose, bluesy, and energetic. It proved they could still write a great rock song in their 60s. Highlight: "Rough Justice."
Blue & Lonesome (2016) A left turn. Instead of writing new songs, they went into the studio and recorded covers of their favorite Chicago blues songs (Little Walter, Willie Dixon) in just three days. It is raw, live, and arguably their best album since Tattoo You. It won a Grammy and reminded everyone where they came from. Highlight: "Just Your Fool." Goats Head Soup (1973) Coming off the high
Hackney Diamonds (2023) Their first album of original material in 18 years. Produced by Andrew Watt, it modernizes their sound without losing the grit. It features killer guitar interplay and guests like Lady Gaga and Paul McCartney. It is a fitting capstone to a massive career. Highlight: "Angry."