About the song
**Paint It Black: A Timeless Rolling Stones Classic**
Released in 1966, “Paint It Black” is a seminal track by The Rolling Stones, a band that has defined rock and roll for generations. This song, with its haunting melody and stark lyrics, is a testament to the band’s ability to capture the raw emotions and cultural zeitgeist of its time.
The song’s introspective and melancholic tone sets the stage for a narrative of despair and loss. The iconic opening guitar riff, with its minor key and repetitive pattern, creates a sense of foreboding and unease. The lyrics, written primarily by Mick Jagger, delve into themes of grief, alienation, and the desire to escape from the world’s harsh realities.
“Paint It Black” is often interpreted as a song about mourning and loss. The lyrics, such as “I’m gonna paint it black, gonna paint it black,” suggest a desire to erase the painful memories and experiences that have led to the narrator’s despair. The image of painting everything black can be seen as a metaphor for the overwhelming darkness and hopelessness that the narrator is feeling.
However, the song can also be interpreted as a commentary on the social and political climate of the 1960s. The Vietnam War was raging, and there was a growing sense of disillusionment and despair among young people. The lyrics, with their themes of alienation and disillusionment, may reflect the feelings of many who were struggling to find meaning and purpose in a world that seemed increasingly chaotic and uncertain.
The song’s musical arrangement is as striking as its lyrics. The driving rhythm, combined with the repetitive guitar riff and the haunting melody, creates a sense of urgency and intensity. Keith Richards’ guitar playing is particularly noteworthy, with his raw and powerful style adding to the song’s emotional impact.
“Paint It Black” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its haunting melody, powerful lyrics, and iconic status have solidified its place in the rock and roll pantheon. The song’s ability to capture the raw emotions and cultural zeitgeist of its time has ensured its enduring popularity and relevance.
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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