Track by Track: Exile on Main St.

Track by Track is a new series that revisits some of the most iconic albums in music history, diving deep into their tracks, impact, and the stories behind their creation. Each month, we'll spotlight one album that has left an indelible mark on music and culture. For May, we look at Exile on Main St., a defining album by The Rolling Stones that remains one of the most revered rock albums ever released. Released in 1972, Exile on Main St. is a sprawling double album filled with raw, gritty rock that mixes blues, country, and soul.

Opening with "Rocks Off," the album immediately sets a tone of unrestrained energy and carefree rebellion. The mood swings between gritty rockers like "Tumbling Dice" and mournful ballads like "Sweet Virginia," showcasing the band’s ability to capture both the chaos and the beauty of life. Songs like "Happy" and "Shine a Light" are woven into the fabric of rock history, illustrating the breadth of The Rolling Stones’ influence.

Exile on Main St. was recorded in a makeshift studio in France while the band was in self-imposed exile due to tax issues in the U.K. The album reflects the tumultuous period in the band's history, with personal struggles and excess bleeding into the music. Despite, or perhaps because of, the chaos surrounding its creation, Exile on Main St. became a critical and commercial success, solidifying The Rolling Stones’ place as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

The album received universal acclaim and was later named by Rolling Stone as one of the 500 greatest albums of all time. It’s a testament to The Rolling Stones’ enduring ability to evolve while remaining true to their roots. Exile on Main St. continues to inspire generations of musicians, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of rock.

Exile on Main St. is available for streaming, digital download, and physical purchase, including expanded editions with bonus tracks and outtakes.