Sticky Fingers (1971) Lyrics – The Rolling Stones

English 448 April 23, 1971

"Sticky Fingers" is the 9th British and 11th American studio album by the legendary English rock band, the Rolling Stones, holds a revered place in music history. Released on April 23, 1971, via their newly established Rolling Stones Records label, this album marked a pivotal moment in the band's career. Previously, the Stones had been bound by contracts with Decca Records and London Records in the UK and the US since 1963.

Notably, "Sticky Fingers" showcased Mick Taylor's return, his second full-length appearance on a Stones album, following the live recording "Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out!" This release was significant as it was the band's first studio album without Brian Jones, who tragically passed away two years prior.

The iconic album cover, conceived by the iconic artist Andy Warhol, featured a provocative image of a man in tight jeans, complete with a functional zip that unveiled underwear fabric. However, this innovative design proved costly to produce and posed a risk to the vinyl record. To remedy this, John Kosh at ABKCO Records adjusted the zipper's size in later reissues, retaining only the outer photograph of the jeans.

Musically, "Sticky Fingers" represented a return to the Stones' rock 'n' roll roots. The album eschewed the unconventional instrumentation experimented with on previous albums, favoring a classic lineup of drums, guitar, bass, and percussion. Core members Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Mick Taylor, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts powered the tracks, while additional contributions came from seasoned Stones collaborators, including saxophonist Bobby Keys and keyboardists Billy Preston, Jack Nitzsche, Ian Stewart, and Nicky Hopkins. The album's production was masterfully helmed by Jimmy Miller, contributing to its timeless sound.

Critically acclaimed, "Sticky Fingers" soared to the top of both the UK and US albums charts, achieving triple platinum certification in the United States. Its lead single, "Brown Sugar," also dominated the Billboard Hot 100 in 1971. Furthermore, the album garnered widespread acclaim, ranking as the second-best album of the year in The Village Voice's annual Pazz & Jop critics poll for 1971. It has solidified its place in music history, earning induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame and a spot on Rolling Stone magazine's prestigious list of the "500 Greatest Albums of All Time." "Sticky Fingers" remains an enduring testament to the Rolling Stones' musical prowess and enduring influence on rock music. Below you can find a to z all track details, with lyrics and videos.

Sticky Fingers album Cover

Sticky Fingers album cover

Cast & Crew

  • Artist/Band
  • Release Date
  • April 23, 1971
  • Producer(s)
  • Jimmy Miller
  • Writer(s)
  • Keith Richards, Marianne Faithfull, Mick Jagger, Mississippi Fred McDowell, Rev. Gary Davis