History and Tips for Displaying Rolling Stones Logo Flags

The History of the Rolling Stones' Iconic Logo

The Rolling Stones' famous logo of a mouth with a tongue sticking out is one of the most recognizable band symbols in rock and roll history. The logo has graced countless t-shirts, posters, albums and other memorabilia for over 50 years. But where did this iconic emblem come from?

Origins of the Famous Tongue Logo

The concept for the tongue logo is credited to Rolling Stones band member Keith Richards. In 1970, the Stones decided to commission a new logo for their merchandise and promotional materials as they gained more fame. Richards suggested using the tongue image based on the idea that it could represent the band's rebellious attitude and outrageous stage antics.

The actual design of the logo was created by London art student John Pasche. Pasche refined Richards' vision into the iconic fat lips and red tongue on a white background design. He chose bright colors that would pop out on posters and other merchandise.

Inspiration From Hindu Goddess Kali

There has been some speculation over the years that Pasche found inspiration from the Hindu goddess Kali when creating the tongue image. Depictions of Kali often show her with a red, protruding tongue. The goddess' unconventional appearance was seen as a symbol of her defiant, divine feminine energy - somewhat similar to the attitude the Stones wanted to project.

While Pasche has acknowledged studying images of Kali in art school, he says any likeness in the logos was unintentional. The tongue concept came strictly from Keith Richards' initial idea.

Debut on the Sticky Fingers Album

After the logo was created, the band first used it in 1970 to promote their Sticky Fingers album. It appeared on the cover artwork displayed on a belt buckle. They also printed it on t-shirts and other items sold to fans. The striking design immediately grabbed people's attention and became iconic in rock culture.

The cover photo of the Sticky Fingers vinyl LP also famously featured a working zipper and fabric that resembled denim jeans. Fans could actually unzip it to reveal cotton briefs inside. This daring album package design only bolstered the band's new bold, risk-taking image.

Small Modifications Over the Years

While the tongue logo has remained largely unchanged, some subtle tweaks have been made to its appearance over the decades.

Its original release featured a slightly longer tongue. The lips were also originally unshaded in white and black. Later versions saw the lips filled in with solid red color. Other revisions have adjusted the shape of the tongue to appear slightly shorter and wider.

These minor updates modified the logo as needed for merchandise and albums. But the basic concept has stayed instantly recognizable for over 50 years since fans first saw it on Sticky Fingers.

Rolling Stones Flag Merchandise

Given its iconic status in rock culture, it was only natural for the Rolling Stones' tongue logo to start appearing on flags for fans to display. The bold design made for an eye-catching embellishment that immediately identified the owner as a Stones follower. Various versions of flags with the logo have been created over the years.

Concert Tours Flags

One popular iteration of Rolling Stones flags features cover artwork from specific tour dates. The tongue logo is incorporated next to colorful graphics advertising the band's live shows in that city and year.

These commemorative flags make excellent mementos for fans who attended a tour stop. The custom artwork captures the excitement of seeing their favorite band live in concert.

Album Cover Flags

Another flag design celebrates iconic Stones album cover art. Along with the classic tongue symbol, these flags recreate memorable LP graphics from releases like Sticky Fingers, Some Girls or Tattoo You.

Album art flags let longtime fans show off their knowledge of the band's storied musical history. Displaying a landmark album cover that defined the Stones' sound in that era.

Vintage Tongue Logo Flags

For fans that simply want the classic logo, many flags feature the tongue by itself. Usually displayed in vibrant red and white against a black background.

These flags showcase the tongue image exactly as it originally appeared. Celebrating the iconic emblem that still represents the essence of the Rolling Stones' wild spirit after all these years.

Tips for Displaying a Rolling Stones Flag

Part of the appeal of band flags is being able to show off the designs where everyone can see them. Here are some great ways Rolling Stones fans can put their flags on display:

Hang Them Up

Hang a Stones flag on any wall inside or outside your home. Use thumbtacks for an easy option. Or add brackets to securely mount the flag for long-lasting visibility.

Drape Them

Drape your Rolling Stones flag over outdoor railings or banisters. Let the flag billow in the breeze for attention-grabbing movement. Drape multiple flags together for a big impact.

Frame Them

For indoor display, an excellent option is framing your Rolling Stones flag in shadowbox frames. Protects the material while putting the graphics prominently on show for visitors to admire.

With so many design choices available, Rolling Stones flags make the perfect decorative enhancement for Stones fans. The iconic tongue logo always produces a vibrant, eye-catching statement wherever it's on display!

FAQs

Where can I buy an official Rolling Stones flag?

Official Rolling Stones flags are sold through the band's website and at merchandise booths during their concert tours. Many large retailers like Amazon and Walmart also sell officially licensed Stones flags.

What material are Rolling Stones flags made from?

Most Rolling Stones flags are made from polyester or nylon. These synthetic fabrics are durable in outdoor weather conditions. Some higher quality collector flags may use more premium fabrics like cotton.

Can I use a Rolling Stones flag as a room decoration?

Absolutely! Rolling Stones flags make excellent room décor for fans. Hang your flag on the wall or drape it over furniture. You can even frame flags to protect the graphics from damage.

What size Rolling Stones flag should I get?

Flag sizes available include 12"x18", 16"x24", and 28"x40". Choose flag dimensions based on your display location. Big 28"x40" flags maximize visual impact. Smaller 12"x18" sizes are great for tight indoor areas.