The Rolling Stones’ music catalog is as diverse and colorful as a wild pasture in spring. They pull from every genre of music and leave no stone unturned. Consequently, they have blues songs, gospel songs, psychedelic songs, and even a fair share of country songs. Matter of fact, their country music is some of their most successful and iconic. And it’s not because of its face-value appeal. Rather, when it came to country music, the Rolling Stones really knew what they were doing.
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There has been a surplus of rock ‘n’ rollers who tried to transition into the world of country music. However, they never made it very far, and the music they created became an obscure gem or flop in their catalog. That is not the case for the Rolling Stones, as their country songs are bona fide staples and some monster hits. So, here are three country songs that showed the Rolling Stones knew what they were doing.
“Dead Flowers”
The lyrics in “Dead Flowers” are arguably some of the finest poetry the Rolling Stones produced. In essence, the tune was just phenomenal, and the masses, as well as other artists, agreed. Even the songwriter of all songwriters, Townes Van Zandt, agreed, as he covered their song and took quite the liking to it thanks to the story it articulates.
Released in 1971 on their iconic album, Sticky Fingers, the Rolling Stones scored loads of success with their off-brand country song. Following its release, “Dead Flowers” peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and at No. 10 on the Billboard Easy Listening chart.
“Honky Tonk Women”
Even though Mick Jagger believed this to be a joke song, “Honky Tonk Women” proved that the Rolling Stones could accurately encapture the soul of 20th century country music. It’s certainly the Rolling Stones’ most famous country music track and their most successful.
Released in 1969, “Honky Tonk Women” remains as one of the most decorated Rolling Stones songs of all time. Not only did it reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, but it also stayed at No. 1 for a total of four weeks.
“Sweet Virginia”
1972 was the height of Rolling Stones country music. In addition to “Dead Flowers,” the Rolling Stones produced another one of their country diamonds, “Sweet Virgina.” Frankly, out of these three songs it is the one that most strongly identifies with country music. In other words, it is a pure country song.
Following its 1972 release on Sticky Fingers, the single didn’t appear on any major charts. Regardless, it’s a phenomenal song and the cherry on top of their country music catalog. Also, Mick Jagger’s fake country accent on the track is comedic gold.
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