Beatles vs Rolling Stones: Who’s Number One? [POLL]

The Beatles, my most accounts, have long been considered the greatest band in rock and roll history.You can talk about their chart success, the way they opened the door for other British acts in America, their influence on the progression of rock and roll, their longevity  in terms of popularity, and the solo success of each individual member. It's tough to argue against all that. Yet, some will say, it's not the Beatles, but rather the Rolling Stones who are the greatest band of all time.

Let's begin the discussion with the music itself, and the bands' chart success.

The Beatles put 72 songs on the U.S. Billboard Chart, including 20 number ones, and 14 other hits that made the top 10. The Stones have managed 56 chart hits, eight number ones, and 15 other hits that made the top 10.

Discography can be a bit complicated due to the fact that different versions of albums may be released in various countries. The Beatles released 12 studio albums,  13 EPs, and 22 singles. The Stones have  have managed 29 studio albums, 18 live albums, three EPs, and 107 singles. They've put 50 albums on the Billboard 200 Chart. Only Barbra Streisand, Elvis, and Frank Sinatra have more.

The Beatles'  incredible influence on rock and roll in the 10 years they were together is indisputable. The longevity of the Rolling Stones, still  alive and performing and recording after 50  years is remarkable.

When you look at the solo careers of these bands, there is, of course,  a huge disparity in favor of the Beatles. There have been sixteen #1 solo hits collectively for the Beatles, nine of those by Paul McCartney. Mick Jagger managed 7 chart hits, with only 1985's Dancing in the Street reaching the top 10.

We might add to the mix here the fact that Keith Richards recently was named on Vanity Fair's annual best-dressed list.

Who are the best performers and best musicians? Which band has had the greatest impact on rock and roll? If you could go back in time and see them in person, which band would you want to see?

The bottom line comes down to rock and roll fans. Personal preference, perspective, and opinions are what it's all about. There may not be a definitive answer, but it does make for an interesting discussion. Take our poll below and tell us what you think.