Unveiling the Origins of The Rolling Stones’ Iconic Logo: A Tale of Artistic Collaboration

In the realm of band branding, The Rolling Stones stand as a prime example, with their instantly recognizable tongue and lips logo. This emblem, ubiquitous on merchandise from lighters to full tracksuits, has become a symbol synonymous with rock and roll. But who crafted this enduring image, and how did it become an indelible part of the band’s identity?

Contrary to a common misconception, Andy Warhol, although collaborating on album covers, did not design The Rolling Stones logo. The iconic tongue and lips were the brainchild of John Pasche in 1970, during the band’s zenith of fame. While attempting to create a poster for their 1970 European tour, the Stones rejected label-offered options. Mick Jagger, the band’s frontman, took matters into his own hands and approached Pasche after encountering his work at the Royal College of Art degree show.

Inspired by the Indian goddess Kali, known for her protruding tongue, Pasche aimed to capture the band’s anti-authoritarian attitude, Mick’s mouth, and suggestive undertones. His design, easily reproducible and with enduring style, was accepted on only his second draft. Notably, he received a mere £50 for this initial creation.

However, the widely recognized image we see today wasn’t directly Pasche’s final product. The band liked the design so much that, when preparing for their 1971 album “Sticky Fingers,” they decided to keep it. Craig Braun, tasked with integrating the Warhol artwork and band branding, sought the logo from Pasche. Learning that only rough sketches existed, Braun, credited by some as the logo’s creator, had a stamp made of Pasche’s design.

Braun, with an illustrator’s assistance, painstakingly refined the logo, giving rise to the version now emblazoned on merchandise, albums, and posters. The origin of the logo remains a subject of debate, with Pasche asserting his role as the original creator, while Braun contends he brought it to full fruition.

As The Rolling Stones gear up for their next ventures, this iconic logo, born from the collaboration of artistic minds, stands as a testament to the enduring power of visual identity in the world of music.

**Bonus Section: Where Are The Rolling Stones From?**
As one of London and the UK’s most beloved exports, The Rolling Stones have deep roots in the city. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the band’s core members, first crossed paths near London in Kent, attending the same primary school. The band’s formation was solidified during a chance meeting at Dartford station, where Jagger’s Chuck Berry record sparked a conversation with Richards. Although their fame has transcended borders, their London shows remain a cherished homecoming.

**Bonus Section: The Original Members of The Rolling Stones**
Founded by Brian Jones, the original lineup of The Rolling Stones featured Ian Stewart on keys and Bill Wyman on guitar. Over the years, the lineup evolved, with Jagger and Richards emerging as the driving force. Brian Jones, despite founding the band, faced challenges due to drug addiction and was eventually let go in 1969, marking the beginning of The Rolling Stones’ enduring legacy with Jagger and Richards at the helm.