A music icon ranked as the top ‘Rock Lead Singer’ celebrates his 83rd birthday today.
July 26 marks several significant dates in music history. Among them, today is the 58th anniversary of The Jackson 5 signing with Motown Records. On July 26, 1969, the legendary Johnny Cash released one of his signature hit songs, “A Boy Named Sue.”
It was also on this day, 83 years ago, that Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger was born.
Jagger was born in Dartford, Kent, England, on July 26, 1943. He attended Wentworth Primary School in Dartford, where he first met future Rolling Stones bandmate and guitarist Keith Richards.
The Rolling Stones were formed in 1962, playing their first show at London’s Marquee Jazz Club on July 12, 1962. On July 22, 1964, the group scored their first No. 1 hit when “It’s All Over Now” topped the UK Singles Chart.
Over the next four years, they scored more No. 1 hits with “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” (1965), “Get Off of My Cloud” (1965), “Paint It Black” (1966), “Ruby Tuesday” (1967)” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” (1968).
Fast forward more than sixty years, and The Rolling Stones are among the best-selling music groups ever, with an estimated 250 million albums sold globally.
In 2023, Billboard ranked Jagger No. 1 on their list of “The 50 Greatest Rock Lead Singers of All Time.” Kurt Cobain of Nirvana (fifth), Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin (fourth), Freddie Mercury of Queen (third) and Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac (second) rounded out the top five.
Mick Jagger Wants to Tour Again
Ronnie Wood, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards on stage during a 2024 performance.
In a recent interview with BBC Radio 2 (h/t Rolling Stone), Jagger indicated that he’s not ready to call it quits on his illustrious career.
“I’d love to go on tour,” Jagger said. “I can’t wait.” I don’t think it’s going to be this year. But hopefully it’s going to be as soon as possible.”
Earlier this month, The Rolling Stones released a new album, Foreign Tongues. Couple that with Jagger’s recent comments about touring, and it appears this young 83-year-old is far from done as a performer.
This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on Jul 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.