How It’S Only Rock ‘N Roll (But I Like It) By The Rolling Stones Became Their Musical Motto

March 21, 2025

In the summer of 1974, the air was thick with excitement and the smell of adventure. The Rolling Stones were in the middle of their legendary “Tour of the Americas,” a whirlwind of concerts that pushed the band to their limits. With each performance, the energy in the stadiums surged like a tidal wave, fueled by eager fans ready to lose themselves in the music. But behind the scenes, the band was grappling with a different kind of struggle. They faced criticism, personal challenges, and the relentless pressure of staying at the top of the rock ‘n roll scene. It was during this chaotic time that they wrote “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It),” a catchy anthem that would become their musical motto.

As Mick Jagger sat down to write the lyrics, he felt torn between his love for music and the doubts that crept in with their fame. The pressure to keep creating hits weighed heavily on him, but there was a fire in his heart that refused to be extinguished. He scribbled words that reflected their journey—how rock ‘n roll was more than just a business to them; it was a passion, a way of life. The powerful rhythm and straightforward message resonated deeply with both the band and their fans. It was a declaration of resilience, a reminder that despite the noise and challenges, at the core of it all, they truly enjoyed making music.

When the song was released, it quickly climbed the charts, captivating audiences around the world. Fans sang along, feeling the pulse of the music and the truth in the lyrics. “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll, but I Like It” became more than just a catchy tagline; it transformed into a mantra for anyone who had ever felt overwhelmed by expectations. The Stones were not just a band; they were a force that reminded people to embrace their passions and have fun, no matter the trials they faced. The joy in their music became infectious, spreading like wildfire through the crowd at every concert.

This song marked a turning point for The Rolling Stones. They reconnected with their roots, realizing that music was about joy and expression, not just hits and chart positions. As they toured Europe and the United States, the anthem echoed in their hearts and on the stages. Fans of all ages sang along, and the energy was electric. Jagger and Keith Richards embraced this new perspective, which revitalized their creativity. They began to experiment with their sound more freely, releasing even more iconic songs and albums in the coming years.

Years later, “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It)” still stands as a testament to the power of music. In interviews, Jagger reflects on how that period taught him about authenticity. He often encourages young musicians to pursue their passion without fear. The song embodied their journey through ups and downs, reminding them that no matter how tough things got, the joy of creating music would always win out in the end.

Ultimately, this anthem encapsulated the spirit of The Rolling Stones. Through their struggles, they learned to embrace the chaos of life and the joy of music. Their motto became a beacon for fans and artists alike, inspiring everyone to find love in what they do, no matter the challenges ahead. In the world of rock ‘n roll, it wasn’t just about the fame or fortune; it was about the pure, unadulterated love for creating something beautiful. And for The Rolling Stones, that love would always shine through, reminding us all that when it comes to music, it’s only rock ‘n roll, but oh, how they liked it.