Hip Hop Fan's First Reaction and Analysis of Paint It, Black by The Rolling Stones

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[paulh]

"I see a red door and want it painted black" is one of the simplest lines, but it so beautifully and succinctly foretells the story this song brings to us.

[roadamerica]

Before I get started, I want everyone to give a round of applause to Brian Jones. This is HIM as is "Like a Rainbow". Such a master musician. Sad he died in 1969.

[Toobrokeforagram]

I remember hearing this during the end credits of Full Metal Jacket. Gave me chills

[JingNickPHLife]

This one of the greatest rock songs of all time. The sitar adds such a different sound, too.

[patswanson]

Finally! You are the first reactor that I have seen who understands what this song is about. Great reaction.

[robmaeder]

I enjoy the reactions especially the lyrical interpretations. I've been listening to these songs for 50 years but never take the time to read, much less think what they mean. It is nice to get something besides how it sounds after all these years. Keep it up.

[MrDiddyDee]

Although you suggested one of the verses had a hint of hope, it could also be interpreted as the exact opposite. The character is suffering grief and deeply depressed throughout the rest of the song so it seems unlikely it is a change of heart, the setting sun is often used as a metaphor for the last stages of life and it could be him having suicidal thoughts about going to join his loved one.

[IvorPresents]

"Bolero" Beat. Used effectively one of my favorites from this time period. similar to, King of Pain by the Police, in lyrics.

[guitgas]

The rhythmic strumming you heard is known as a bolero. A lot of 60s-70s rock bands would incorporate the rhythm into a song. The rhythm is taken from Ravel's Bolero which, if you haven't listened to, is worth hearing at least once. No lyrics, you just let the music wash over you.

[patrickmartell]

You are really great at this. Seriously.

[davescurry]

And the best thing about that magnificent piece of music is it's the original Rolling Stones. And you were spot on guessing that it's a sitar providing that glorious melody line, played by Brian Jones. Keith Richards rhythm work in the epic outro is a perfect counterpoint to Jones' hypnotic sitar.

In my opinion, "Paint It, Black" sits comfortably in the Stones top 10 songs and arguably top 5. In any spot. It's one of those songs that still gives me goosebumps 40 years after I first heard it.

[michaelsuder]

Even though he didnt start using the sitar till after George Harrison on "Norwegian Wood ", Brian plays it beautifully in this song

[stevenward]

Excellent analytical skill. You understand what this song is about. The long line of black cars and the flowers and are part of a funeral.
The leader of the Rolling Stones was Brian Jones, he formed the band. Brian's girlfriend died (I believe from an overdose) and this song is about his grief. She was so full of life so it was a big shock when she died. Brian played the sitar. It was such a loss to the world when Brian died due to drugs in 1969.

[robertlear]

Great analysis of the lyrics. I agree on the interpretation.

[gsparkman]

Epic is right. I was 12 when this dropped and it's been one of favorite Stones songs since that time.

[gustafcederborg]

Glad to see you releasing more bangers, Syed

[samuellord]

Great work Syed. This has always been my favorite Stones song: so raw, such pain, such honesty. It is a true song of mourning, so rare yet so needed in modern western music. It tells of the times we hate God. Time heals the wounds as we understand what we have been given in the friends and lovers while they live.

[starburstppl]

Brilliant reaction and analysis of one of my favorite Rolling Stones tracks! Bravo and props to you! Peace! ✌

[johnworthington]

It's always so lovely watching the reaction of these boys. Having grown up with a bit of Stones I think you boys ok.

[mikeevans]

You're right Syed, this is probably one of the most used Rolling Stones songs in media, mostly in movies/series to do with the Vietnam war.