For longeivty and hits Niel Young has had both continuoslly since the late 60's and never has had to have a comeback since he never went away. Another contender would be the Moody Blues, but they have had some lineup changes.
I know the Stones have the rep but I haven't liked much of their music since 1971. Going to see them seems to be more of a cult following thing like Deadheads or vicariously being in contact with the heyday of rock by seeing an artistically void band (ie the Stones) today.
By the way, I know that my feelings about the Stones is not widely held, but after all it is just an opinion. I'm not looking to start musical flame wars.
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