We have a collection of 11 arrangements for The Rolling Stones - Paint It Black
What 1960s rock song features haunting sitar riffs and existential lyrics? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover The Rolling Stones: The Legendary Rock Band
"Paint It Black" is one of The Rolling Stones' most iconic songs, and there are some interesting facts related to both the song and the band:
Release Date: "Paint It Black" was released as a single in May 1966 and later included on the album "Aftermath" in the United States. It quickly became a chart-topping hit.
Influence of Indian Music: The song is known for its distinctive sitar melody, played by Brian Jones. This use of the sitar was influenced by the popularity of Indian music in the mid-1960s, thanks in part to artists like Ravi Shankar and George Harrison of The Beatles, who had recently incorporated Indian instruments into their music.
Lyric Inspiration: The song's lyrics were written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. The dark and somewhat mysterious lyrics are often interpreted as expressing feelings of grief and mourning. Some speculate that the song's title phrase "Paint It Black" refers to the traditional custom of painting things black to signify mourning.
Chart Success: "Paint It Black" was a massive success for The Rolling Stones. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and the UK Singles Chart in the United Kingdom. It also reached the top of the charts in several other countries.
Cultural Impact: The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. It's been used in contexts ranging from war movies like "Full Metal Jacket" to video games like "Call of Duty: Black Ops." Its enduring popularity has made it a cultural touchstone.
Album Artwork: The cover art for the "Aftermath" album features a photograph of the band in which their faces are obscured by shadow, emphasizing the "dark" theme of the song. This cover design was quite innovative at the time.
Live Performances: The Rolling Stones have frequently performed "Paint It Black" in their concerts over the years, making it a staple of their live repertoire. It continues to be a crowd-pleaser at their shows.
Grammy Hall of Fame: In recognition of its enduring significance and popularity, "Paint It Black" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2018.
Cover Versions: Many artists have covered "Paint It Black" over the years, including artists from a variety of musical genres. Notable covers include versions by Eric Burdon and The Animals, Vanessa Carlton, and U2.
Legacy: "Paint It Black" remains one of The Rolling Stones' most recognizable and enduring songs, showcasing the band's ability to experiment with different musical styles while maintaining their signature rock sound.
These facts demonstrate the enduring appeal and cultural impact of "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones, making it a timeless classic in the world of rock music.