Keith Richards and whoever the piano player might have been at the time(ian stewart/nicky hopkins). Wyman, Watts are pretty good too. I just see mick jagger as a twat with a good voice who can dance.

In my opinion, the greatest musical talent of the Rolling Stones was found floating in his pool about 40 years back.

I'd say Keith Richards, someone who can play their instrument well is more talented than a frontman, even a very good front man like Mick Jagger.

I agree with the comments that the Stones are a unit. Like John and Paul, there isn't much sense choosing between Keith and Mick, because the contrast, chemistry, love and hatred between them are what made the band.

It's hard to know for sure, but I don't think they would have survived the 60s without Brian's influences, pushing them beyond rock, blues, and integrating other instruments. At the same time, when Brian burned out, I think the strong, talented, rootsy guitar sound of Taylor came along at just the right time. From what I've seen, Keith's playing at the time wasn't good enough without Taylor to help drive their sound along; and I don't think the raw, dirty sound of their classic run from @68-@73 would have had the same impact without him.

I agree with the comments saying Wyman was underrated. Keith has often been credited with their best riffs, but some of their highest impact songs like Miss You, Sympathy..., Bitch, and Live With Me--just to name a few--were bass-driven.

Agreed 100%! The Rolling Stones are one of the tightest bands in music history, and every single part of their makeup contributes to the whole. I have to admit I love Keith Richards' guitar style, but really, without the rest of them he'd just be another good guitar player.

Brian Jones. It's no coincidence that 95% of all their good material was made before his departure.

He didn't write anything though

But he influenced what musical direction the band was taking.

i see the song Sympathy For The Devil is him at his best

Agreed. The Stones as singles artists have never been my cup of tea. Together, they have the feel that makes the groove that is the Rolling Stones. Oh, well. It's only Rock n Roll.......but I like it.:hphones: