The Rolling Stones tongue and lips logo

The V&A holds in its collections the original artwork for the Rolling Stones famous tongue and lips logo – one of the world's most instantly recognisable symbols of rock and roll.

(Left) Full colour digital proof for the Rolling Stones 'Tongue' logo by Jon Pasche, 1970. Museum no. S.6121-2009, © Victoria & Albert Museum, London. (Right) Art work for the Rolling Stones 'Tongue' logo by Jon Pasche, 1970. Museum no. S.6120-2009, © Victoria & Albert Museum, London

Mick Jagger, singer with the Rolling Stones, commissioned Jon Pasche, who was then a young student at the Royal College of Art in London, to produce the logo after seeing his designs at the Royal College of Art final degree show in 1970.

In this interview Jon Pasche shares the fascinating story behind the commission - how the logo was inspired by an image of a hindu goddess, being told by Mick Jagger that he could do better, and being paid just £50.

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Header image: Artwork for the Rolling Stones Hot Licks logo, Jon Pasche, 1970. Museum nos. S.6120-2009 & S.6121-2009. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London/Musidor B.V.