When all is said and done, the Stones will probably be remembered for writing some of greatest rock 'n' roll songs in the history of popular music: "Jumpin' Jack Flash"; "Brown Sugar"; "Honky Tonk Women"; "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll (But I Like It)" etc

Part of their appeal is the ability, after half a century, to still sound like they just picked up their instruments a year or two ago. The KISS (keep it simple stupid) principle put into musical practice, and why budding rock musicians throughout the years hold the Stones in such high esteem. Learning Keef's riffs are an excellent primer to rock 'n' roll guitar.

Instead of highlighting their musical shortcomings, the Stones' minimal arrangements over the years have elevated this style to an art form, much the way John Fahey's style engendered the descriptive invention of "American Primitive" fingerstyle guitar playing.