About the song
“Paint It, Black” by The Rolling Stones is a groundbreaking song that has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape since its release in 1966. Featured on the album “Aftermath,” it showcases the band’s innovative blend of rock, psychedelia, and world music influences, solidifying their reputation as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.
The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, with significant contributions from Brian Jones, whose sitar playing adds a distinctive, haunting quality to the track. “Paint It, Black” stands out for its dark, introspective lyrics and unique instrumentation, which includes a sitar and a droning bass line that was highly unconventional for its time. The song’s theme of despair and mourning is vividly conveyed through Jagger’s evocative lyrics and the overall melancholic tone.
Upon its release as a single, “Paint It, Black” quickly ascended the charts, becoming the first song by a rock band to feature a sitar and reach number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and the UK Singles Chart. This achievement marked a significant milestone in the band’s career, showcasing their ability to push musical boundaries and resonate with a wide audience.
The song’s impact extends beyond its commercial success. “Paint It, Black” has been widely recognized for its cultural significance and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a classic. Its innovative use of non-Western instruments and its exploration of darker themes were ahead of its time and have influenced countless artists across various genres.
“Paint It, Black” remains a powerful and enduring piece of music, reflecting the depth and versatility of The Rolling Stones. For longtime fans, the song is a reminder of the band’s groundbreaking contributions to rock music. For new listeners, it offers a compelling introduction to their rich and varied catalog. The song’s haunting melody, coupled with its profound lyrics, continues to captivate and inspire listeners, ensuring its place as a timeless masterpiece in rock history.
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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