When the Rolling Stones kick off a tour, it’s always big news. But when they kick off their 50th anniversary tour, it’s an event; and one that people are still talking about two days after their show at London’s O2 Arena on Sunday.

This is a show that had it all, while in true Stones style, still keeping it to the basics. The Stones have never needed lasers or light shows, or robotically choreographed dancers in the background — and they still don’t fifty years later. Who needs backup when Mick Jagger is still shredding the stage apart, in near constant movement from the drop of the first beat to the last applause? And who wants lights or lasers interfering with the guitar show Keith Richards always puts on?

The Stones brought all of this and more on Sunday night, making it a classic Stones show, with a few modern twists and some old-school throwbacks.

It was Mary J. Blige who brought the most contemporary feel, matching Mick pitch for pitch as they belted out “Gimme Shelter” together; and Jeff Beck was on hand to show off his own guitar skills on “I’m Going Down.”

In addition to new friends, old friends were there for the ride too, with former Stones member Bill Wyman taking the stage to lend guitar support on “It’s Only Rock and Roll” and “Honky Tonk Women.” Mick Taylor, who left the Stones in 1974, was also there, and was one of the favorites of the crowd.

No more so than Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Woods, and Charlie Watts though, who all played with the crowd while putting on a truly unforgettable show.

Happy birthday, Rolling Stones, and here’s to many more to come!