rolling stones logo

The Rolling Stones Iconic Logo: A Tongue That Rocked the World

The Rolling Stones are a legend in rock and roll, and their logo is just as iconic. But how did this now-famous symbol come to be? Let's delve into the story behind the Rolling Stones logo, which goes back to 1970.

From Art Student to Rock Royalty:

Our story begins with John Pasche, not a seasoned designer but a young art student at the Royal College of Art in London. The Stones, then led by the flamboyant Mick Jagger, were looking for a logo for their new record label, Rolling Stones Records. They reached out to the college, and fatefully, Pasche's name landed on their desk.

Inspiration Strikes:

Pasche's initial concept was to create a simple logo for a program cover or press book. Think paper, not a rock concert t-shirt! He even took inspiration from the Hindu goddess Kali for a more multi-armed design. But then came the magic touch—the now-famous tongue-and-lips logo.

A Symbol of Rebellion:

Some say the tongue and lips inspired by Mick Jagger's pout were a stroke of genius. They were bold and brash and perfectly captured the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. This wasn't just a logo; it was a symbol.

A Legacy in Red:

Initially created for a small fee, Pasche's design has stood the test of time. The red tongue and lips have become synonymous with the Rolling Stones, appearing on everything from albums to merchandise. It's a testament to the power of a well-designed logo – simple, memorable, and reflecting the brand's essence.

Fun Facts:

• The original logo artwork was actually bought by the Victoria and Albert Museum in London for a whopping sum, proving its artistic merit.

• John Pasche wasn't the only art student to brush shoulders with rock and roll royalty. Craig Braun, who would later become Mick Jagger's manager, was simultaneously a student at the Royal College of Art!

• The Rolling Stones logo is often called "Hot Lips," or the "Stones tongue and lip," but its official name is simply the Rolling Stones logo.

So next time you see the Rolling Stones' iconic tongue and lips, remember the story behind it – a tale of an art student, rock and roll legends, and a logo that has become a permanent fixture in music history.