On June 20, 2025, The Rolling Stones will release their first studio album in over a decade. Titled Rolling Through Time, this album marks a significant reunion for the band, as it sees the return of Michael McDonald, the former lead singer who was part of their most commercially successful years. McDonald, who originally left the band in the 1980s to focus on his solo career, rejoined The Stones in 2023. Since then, fans have been eagerly awaiting new material from the legendary band.
The new album combines fresh tracks with reworked classics, bringing McDonald’s signature vocal style into the fold with the group’s enduring rock sound. The lead single, “Shifting Sands,” released earlier in 2025, quickly became a hit, charting as the #1 rock single in both the UK and the US.
For The Rolling Stones, this album represents both a return to form and an evolution in their sound. While many bands of their age have opted for more traditional fare in their later years, The Rolling Stones continue to push boundaries with their music, incorporating new sounds while maintaining the rock roots that have made them one of the world’s most influential bands.
The History of the Band’s Relationship with McDonald
Michael McDonald’s involvement with The Rolling Stones traces back to the late 1970s when he contributed background vocals on several tracks. His most iconic work with the band came during the Some Girls (1978) and Emotional Rescue (1980) albums, where his soulful and distinctive voice complemented Mick Jagger’s charismatic lead vocals. McDonald’s departure in the early 1980s, as he shifted focus to his own successful solo career, marked the end of an era for the band.
After years of pursuing solo projects, McDonald rejoined The Rolling Stones for a series of live performances in 2023, and the success of these shows led to the decision to record a full album together. Fans were thrilled by McDonald’s return, and early reviews of Rolling Through Time suggest that his presence has revitalized the band’s chemistry.
The Sound of the New Album
Rolling Through Time marks a departure from some of The Rolling Stones’ more experimental sounds in recent years. While the album still features their signature bluesy rock and rollicking rhythm, it also explores more melodic, laid-back ballads that evoke the classic Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main St. albums. McDonald’s vocal contributions are prominent on tracks such as “I’ll Be There For You,” which has been described as a “heartfelt ballad reminiscent of Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
The album also experiments with modern production techniques, incorporating elements of electronic and pop, blending them with the band’s traditional rock sound. Songs like “Don’t Let Go” and “Through The Fire” feature layers of synths and electronic beats, giving them a more contemporary feel while staying true to the band’s foundational sound.
“Shifting Sands,” the lead single, is perhaps the most direct nod to the band’s classic era. With its funky guitar riffs and McDonald’s signature harmonies, the song has quickly become a fan favorite and a radio hit. It serves as a reminder of The Rolling Stones’ ability to evolve while staying rooted in their classic style.
The Band’s Resurgence and Tour Plans
The Rolling Stones are set to take their new album on the road with an extensive world tour starting in September 2025. The Rolling Through Time Tour will see the band performing in major cities across North America, Europe, and Asia. Fans can expect to hear both new material and classic hits, as the Stones plan to celebrate their legacy while introducing fans to their latest work.
The tour has already sold out several dates, and tickets for the first few shows are expected to be in high demand. The band’s loyal fanbase, along with new generations of listeners discovering their music, is fueling excitement for this historic return.
What’s Next for The Rolling Stones?
As The Rolling Stones move into their seventh decade of performing, Rolling Through Time represents a new chapter for the band. The addition of Michael McDonald, whose vocals and presence are more prominent than ever, has reinvigorated the group’s dynamic. The Stones continue to prove that age is no barrier to creativity, and their ability to adapt while maintaining their core identity is what makes them true legends in rock and roll.
As they head into 2026, the band is already discussing plans for future projects, with whispers of more collaborations and studio albums on the horizon. With Rolling Through Time, The Rolling Stones have once again reminded the world of their enduring place in rock history.