Rolling Stones - Paint It Black
The Rolling Stones' iconic song "Paint It Black," released in 1966, stands as a powerful and distinctive track in their discography, marking a significant foray into psychedelic rock with its unique instrumentation and somber themes. Composed by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song's creation began during the band's tour in Australia, with Richards developing the melody and Jagger crafting the lyrics.
During the recording sessions for their album Aftermath at RCA Studios in Los Angeles, the band initially struggled to capture the desired intensity for "Paint It Black." The breakthrough came with an unconventional suggestion from bassist Bill Wyman, who proposed using Hammond organ pedals to create a second, double-time bass riff. This innovative addition dramatically altered the song's direction, imbuing it with an exotic, almost Turkish flavor that set it apart from their earlier, more straightforward rock numbers.
A pivotal element of "Paint It Black" is the prominent sitar melody, played by multi-instrumentalist Brian Jones. Inspired by George Harrison's use of the sitar on The Beatles' "Norwegian Wood," Jones, who had been experimenting with the instrument, brought its distinctive sound to the track. His sitar playing, which picked out the vocal melody and provided the unsettling intro riff, was crucial in defining the song's unique atmosphere and contributing to its psychedelic potency. This marked a departure from traditional rock instrumentation and showcased Jones's willingness to explore new sonic territories.
The lyrics of "Paint It Black" delve into themes of profound grief and despair. Jagger's words describe a narrator overwhelmed by the sudden loss of a loved one, wishing for everything around him to turn black to match his internal sorrow. The imagery of a "red door" that the narrator wants "painted black" and the inability to bear the sight of "girls walk by, dressed in their summer clothes" vividly convey a deep sense of bereavement and a desire to retreat from a world that continues to be vibrant despite his personal tragedy. The song's emotional depth is further amplified by Charlie Watts's uncharacteristically energetic and pounding drum work, which provides a relentless backdrop to the somber narrative.
Upon its release in May 1966, "Paint It Black" quickly ascended to the top of the charts in both the US and the UK. Its impact extended beyond commercial success, influencing public perception of The Rolling Stones as pioneers of psychedelic sound. Brian Jones's visual presence, often seen playing the sitar cross-legged, became an iconic image associated with the song. Furthermore, its foreboding energy resonated with American troops during the Vietnam War, who found its themes of fury and despair reflective of their experiences. The song's powerful and disquieting nature has led to its frequent use in media, notably in Stanley Kubrick's film Full Metal Jacket, underscoring its enduring legacy as a chilling and evocative piece of music.
Rolling Stones Paint It Black Lyrics
I see a red door
And I want it painted black
No colors 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've seen people turn their heads
And quickly look away
Like a newborn baby
It just happens everyday
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 colors 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 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