The Rolling Stones: Sticky Fingers Album Review

Released in 1971, Sticky Fingers is often hailed as one of The Rolling Stones' finest albums, blending their signature rock 'n' roll swagger with blues, country, and soul. This record marked the debut of the band’s own label, Rolling Stones Records, and featured the iconic Andy Warhol-designed album cover, complete with a functional zipper. Musically, Sticky Fingers showcases the band's evolution and maturity, a perfect balance between gritty rock and emotional depth.

The album’s opening track, “Brown Sugar,” is a hard-hitting rocker, driven by Keith Richards' electrifying riffs and Mick Jagger’s raspy, energetic vocals. It’s followed by the haunting ballad "Wild Horses," which exposes a more vulnerable side of the band, with acoustic guitar melodies that convey deep emotion. “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” blends Latin influences with blues, featuring an unforgettable instrumental jam, while “Sister Morphine” dives into darker themes of addiction, its brooding sound accentuated by Ry Cooder’s slide guitar.

The originality of Sticky Fingers lies in its seamless blend of genres, from the country twang of “Dead Flowers” to the soulful “I Got the Blues,” showcasing the Stones' versatility. The album captures the essence of the early 70s with a raw, unpolished energy, and the band’s unique sound is enhanced by Mick Taylor’s lead guitar work and Charlie Watts' impeccable drumming. Taylor’s influence, in particular, added new textures and complexity to the Stones’ already potent sound.

However, the recording process wasn’t without challenges. During this period, the band was navigating the fallout from Brian Jones’ death, drug use, and the legal struggles of Jagger and Richards. The tension and drama surrounding the band seeped into the music, infusing the record with a certain darkness and edge. Additionally, the sessions spanned several locations and years, with some songs recorded as early as 1969, causing delays in the album’s completion.

Despite these hurdles, Sticky Fingers was a commercial and critical success. Tthe album had sold over 13 million copies worldwide, cementing its place as one of the Rolling Stones’ defining works. Its timeless appeal and groundbreaking sound continue to inspire new generations of rock musicians and fans alike.

Click Here to buy an original copy of The Rolling Stones: Sticky Fingers on Vinyl, Cassette or CD