The Rolling Stones are one of the most famous rock bands in the world. They started in the 1960s and have been playing music for over 60 years. Known for their energetic shows, big crowds, and legendary songs, the Rolling Stones have gone on many world tours. Their concerts are more than just music—they are huge events that fans remember forever.
Let’s take a look at some of the most famous Rolling Stones concert tours of the past. We’ll explore what made each tour special, where they went, and why fans still talk about them today.
1. The 1969 American Tour
The Rolling Stones’ 1969 American Tour was a big moment for the band. This was their first tour after the tragic death of their original guitarist, Brian Jones. His replacement, Mick Taylor, joined just before the tour began.
This tour included 26 shows across the United States. It was also the first time the band used a large sound system and professional stage lighting. Before that, concerts were usually smaller and simpler.
One of the most talked-about events of this tour was the Altamont Free Concert in California. It was meant to be a peaceful show, but sadly, it turned violent. Despite the tragedy, this tour helped make the Rolling Stones one of the top live bands in the world.
2. The 1972 North American Tour (Also Called the “STP Tour”)
This tour is considered one of the wildest in rock history. It was filled with loud music, screaming fans, and wild parties. The band was promoting their new album Exile on Main St., which is now one of their most famous records.
The 1972 tour had 48 shows in 32 cities across North America. Each concert was a big event, and the band’s performance was electric. Famous people like Andy Warhol and Truman Capote followed the band on tour, adding even more excitement to the shows.
3. The 1981 American Tour
By 1981, the Rolling Stones were already legends. But this tour showed they still had the power to rock stadiums. The band played in 50 cities, and most of the concerts were held in large football stadiums. The tour had colorful stage designs and even included a giant balloon in the shape of Mick Jagger.
This was one of the first tours to use a large video screen so people far from the stage could still see the band. Over 2 million fans attended this tour, making it one of the biggest ever at the time.
4. The 1990 Urban Jungle Tour (Europe)
The Urban Jungle Tour was part of a longer tour called the “Steel Wheels/Urban Jungle Tour.” The Europe part of the tour was nicknamed “Urban Jungle” and focused on big cities across the continent. It was the band’s first major tour in Europe since 1982.
This tour featured bold stage designs with bright yellow and black patterns. The shows were loud, exciting, and full of energy. The Urban Jungle Tour helped set a new standard for Europe concert tours, inspiring many bands to follow the Stones’ lead in putting on huge shows across the continent.
5. The 1994–1995 Voodoo Lounge Tour
After a short break, the Rolling Stones came back with the Voodoo Lounge Tour. This tour followed the release of their Voodoo Lounge album. It was one of the largest tours in the world at the time, with over 100 shows in 6 continents.
The tour won the Billboard “Tour of the Year” award and had some of the most advanced stage designs ever seen. The shows included fireworks, giant inflatable figures, and powerful light displays. The Rolling Stones proved once again that they were masters of live performance.
6. The 2005–2007 A Bigger Bang Tour
“A Bigger Bang” was not just the name of their album—it was also the name of one of their longest tours. The band played 147 shows in 32 countries, including many stops in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
What made this tour special was its worldwide reach. Fans in places like China and Puerto Rico saw the Stones live for the first time. It was also one of the highest-earning tours in history, bringing in over $500 million.
This tour showed that even after more than 40 years, the Rolling Stones could still bring crowds together from all over the world. It became a highlight among major European concert tours and global rock events.
7. The 2012–2013 50 & Counting Tour
To celebrate their 50th anniversary, the Rolling Stones launched the 50 & Counting Tour. The shows featured all their greatest hits, like “Start Me Up,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.”
This tour also included surprise guest performers like Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen, and Katy Perry. Fans loved seeing old and new stars sharing the stage with the legendary band.
Even after half a century, the Stones continued to fill arenas and stadiums around the world.
8. The 2017–2021 No Filter Tour
The No Filter Tour is one of the Rolling Stones’ most recent and most successful tours. It started in Europe in 2017 and included dozens of shows across the continent, including Paris, London, Berlin, and Barcelona.
After a break, the tour continued in the United States. Even though the band members were now in their late 70s, they still rocked the stage with energy and passion. Sadly, drummer Charlie Watts passed away in 2021, but the band continued the tour in his honor.
This tour also showed how Europe is home to many amazing music festivals and concerts. Whether you’re into classic rock, pop, or electronic music, there’s something for everyone in Europe’s live music scene.
The Rolling Stones and the Future of Rock
The Rolling Stones have changed what it means to go on tour. From small clubs to giant stadiums, they have played almost everywhere. Their music, style, and stage presence have influenced many younger bands.
They’ve also made Europe a top place for music lovers. Today, many fans look for the best Europe trip deals to catch a Rolling Stones concert or to visit a legendary concert venue.
Even if you’ve never seen them live, the band’s music lives on through recordings, videos, and stories from fans all over the world. Their concerts are not just music shows—they are unforgettable moments in music history.
Final Thoughts
From the swinging 60s to the 2020s, the Rolling Stones have given us decades of thrilling concerts. Their tours are full of powerful songs, amazing lights, and pure rock and roll energy. If you’re ever planning to see a live show in Europe, be sure to check out top Europe concert tours and music festivals that carry on the spirit of the Stones.
And don’t forget to look for great Europe trip deals—because the best way to enjoy a concert is to make a full adventure out of it!
Rock on!
