The Album: Aftermath and Its Significance
“Paint It, Black” was featured on The Rolling Stones’ fourth British studio album, Aftermath, which marked a significant turning point in the band’s career. Released in 1966, Aftermath was the first Stones album to consist entirely of original compositions, written primarily by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. This shift from covering blues standards to creating their own material demonstrated the band’s growing confidence and creativity.
The album itself is a fascinating blend of rock, blues, and even elements of folk and baroque pop. Tracks like “Under My Thumb” and “Lady Jane” showcased the band’s ability to experiment with different styles, but it was “Paint It, Black” that truly stole the show. The song was released as a single ahead of the album and quickly climbed to the top of the charts, becoming the band’s third number-one hit in the UK and their second in the US.
Aftermath is often regarded as the album where The Rolling Stones began to carve out their unique identity, moving away from their blues roots and embracing a more eclectic sound. “Paint It, Black” perfectly encapsulates this evolution, blending Eastern influences with Western rock in a way that was groundbreaking for its time.
The Instruments and Sounds: A Sonic Masterpiece
One of the most striking aspects of “Paint It, Black” is its distinctive sound, which is achieved through a combination of unconventional instruments and innovative production techniques. At the heart of the song is Brian Jones’ use of the sitar, an Indian string instrument that gives the track its Eastern flavor. This was a bold move for a rock band in the mid-1960s, as it introduced Western audiences to a sound that was largely unfamiliar at the time.
The sitar is complemented by Charlie Watts’ driving drumbeat, which provides a relentless, almost militaristic rhythm that propels the song forward. Bill Wyman’s bassline adds depth and groove, while Keith Richards’ guitar work, though understated, is crucial in maintaining the song’s rock edge. Mick Jagger’s vocals are raw and emotive, perfectly capturing the dark, brooding tone of the lyrics.
Another standout element is the use of the piano, played by Jack Nitzsche, which adds a layer of melancholy to the track. The piano’s repetitive, descending riff mirrors the song’s themes of despair and loss, creating a sense of inevitability that lingers long after the song ends.
The production, helmed by Andrew Loog Oldham, is also worth noting. The decision to pan the sitar to one side of the stereo mix and the drums to the other creates a sense of space and tension, making the song feel even more immersive. The use of reverb on Jagger’s vocals adds to the haunting atmosphere, while the overall mix ensures that each instrument has its moment to shine.
The Lyrics: A Dark and Poetic Narrative
Lyrically, “Paint It, Black” is a deeply introspective and somber piece. The song’s narrator expresses a desire to “paint it all black” in response to overwhelming grief and loss. The imagery is vivid and evocative, with lines like “I see a red door and I want it painted black” and “No colors anymore, I want them to turn black” conveying a sense of despair and hopelessness.
While the lyrics are open to interpretation, many have speculated that they were inspired by the Vietnam War, which was raging at the time. Others see them as a reflection of personal heartbreak or existential angst. Regardless of the inspiration, the lyrics resonate on a universal level, touching on themes of mourning, isolation, and the struggle to find meaning in the face of tragedy.
Why “Paint It, Black” Still Matters Today
More than five decades after its release, “Paint It, Black” remains a cultural touchstone. Its innovative use of the sitar and other instruments paved the way for the incorporation of Eastern sounds into Western music, influencing countless artists in the process. The song’s dark, introspective tone also set a precedent for rock music to explore more complex and emotional themes.
Moreover, “Paint It, Black” has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a timeless classic. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s universal appeal and the genius of The Rolling Stones.
Similar Songs for Listening Recommendations
If you’re a fan of “Paint It, Black,” here are a few similar songs that you might enjoy:
- The Beatles – “Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)”
Like “Paint It, Black,” this Beatles classic features a sitar and explores themes of longing and loss. It’s a perfect example of how Eastern influences were being incorporated into Western rock during the 1960s. - The Doors – “The End”
With its haunting melody and dark, poetic lyrics, “The End” shares a similar atmospheric quality to “Paint It, Black.” It’s a sprawling, epic track that delves into themes of mortality and existential dread. - Led Zeppelin – “Kashmir”
This iconic track by Led Zeppelin also draws on Eastern influences, with its hypnotic rhythm and orchestral arrangement. It’s a powerful and immersive listening experience. - Pink Floyd – “Comfortably Numb”
While more subdued than “Paint It, Black,” this Pink Floyd classic shares a sense of melancholy and introspection. The soaring guitar solos and emotive vocals make it a must-listen. - The Animals – “House of the Rising Sun”
This folk-rock classic features a similar minor-key arrangement and a narrative of despair and regret. Its timeless quality makes it a great companion to “Paint It, Black.”
Conclusion: A Masterpiece That Transcends Time
“Paint It, Black” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of music that redefined what rock could be. From its innovative use of the sitar and piano to its haunting lyrics and production, every element of the track comes together to create something truly extraordinary. As part of the Aftermath album, it represents a pivotal moment in The Rolling Stones’ career and in the history of rock music as a whole.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, “Paint It, Black” is a song that demands to be heard. Its timeless appeal and emotional depth ensure that it will continue to captivate listeners for generations to come. So, turn up the volume, close your eyes, and let the music take you on a journey—one that’s as dark and beautiful as the song itself.
Video
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 goesI 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 dayI 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 blackNo 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 comesI 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 goesHmm, 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 blackYeah!
Hmm, hmm, hmm…