The Rolling Stones – “Paint It Black”

Introduction

Hailed as one of the most iconic tracks in rock music history, “Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones transcends generations with its hauntingly evocative melody and poetic lyrics. This timeless masterpiece, released in 1966, is not only a testament to the band’s musical prowess but also a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. In this article, we delve into the enigmatic allure of “Paint It Black” and explore intriguing facets about the song and its legendary creators.

Did You Know?

1. The Origins of Darkness: “Paint It Black” emerged during a pivotal period of the Rolling Stones’ career. The song’s inception was influenced by the band’s fascination with Eastern culture, particularly the sitar-driven soundscapes championed by artists like Ravi Shankar and George Harrison of the Beatles. This led to the incorporation of the sitar, played by Brian Jones, creating a distinctive and exotic atmosphere in the track.

2. A Chart-Topping Triumph: Upon its release in 1966, “Paint It Black” swiftly climbed the music charts, ultimately reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. This achievement solidified the Rolling Stones’ status as rock ‘n’ roll royalty and marked their transition into a new musical direction, departing from their earlier blues-inspired compositions.

3. A Cinematic Connection: The song’s impact extended beyond the realm of music. “Paint It Black” found its way into the silver screen, featuring prominently in various films and TV series. Notably, it played a significant role in the 1987 Stanley Kubrick war film, “Full Metal Jacket,” adding a haunting and memorable dimension to the movie’s narrative.

4. Mick Jagger’s Compelling Vocals: Mick Jagger’s distinctive and evocative vocals in “Paint It Black” have been praised for their ability to convey the song’s intense emotions. His haunting delivery, coupled with the cryptic lyrics penned by Jagger and Keith Richards, creates a mesmerizing and enigmatic listening experience.

5. A Timeless Classic: More than five decades since its release, “Paint It Black” remains a quintessential part of the Rolling Stones’ live performances. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its cultural significance and the band’s unparalleled impact on the world of music.

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Lyrics: Paint It Black

I see a red door and I want it painted black
No colours anymore, I want them to turn black
I see the girls walk by, dressed in their summer clothes
I have to turn my head until my darkness goes

I see a line of cars and they’re all painted black
With flowers and my love both never to come back
I see people turn their heads and quickly look away
Like a newborn baby, it just happens every day

I look inside myself and see my heart is black
I see my red door, I must have it painted black
Maybe then I’ll fade away and not have to face the facts
It’s not easy facing up when your whole world is black

No more will my green sea go turn a deeper blue
I could not foresee this thing happening to you
If I look hard enough into the setting sun
My love will laugh with me before the morning comes

I see a red door and I want it painted black
No colours anymore, I want them to turn black
I see the girls walk by, dressed in their summer clothes
I have to turn my head until my darkness goes

Hmm, hmm, hmm…

I wanna see it painted, painted black
Black as night, black as coal
I wanna see the sun blotted out from the sky
I wanna see it painted, painted, painted, painted black

Yeah!

Hmm, hmm, hmm…