The young man walks to the church. He is on foot to the funeral of his girl. The cortege passes. He sees the hearse and the funeral wreaths. On the way he sees young women in their summer dresses and they bring back memories of the happy times they had. He hangs back, because he knows this is their final goodbye. People passing turn away, knowing not what to say. The final cars have entered the churchyard. He swallows back his grief and follows them all in.
A very good take on the symbolism. The only thing I would add: The "red door" in this context symbolizes "love". It was a metaphor coined by William Blake, which Aldous Huxley built upon in his 1954 book "The Doors of Perception". That work became foundational to the 1960s new-age movement, you find doors used as symbolism in things like Wicca (which was founded around that time, it's not "ancient", lol). In the more new-age context, these doors in the mind and/or spirit, were "unlocked" by meditation, insight, and psychedelic drugs. Each door signified a different aspect of being, and you needed to unlock them all to be complete. This concept is actually where the band "The Doors" got their name. The desire to "paint it black", is to consign himself to the grief, to bury his love for her alongside her, rather than go on feeling his loss. It's seeking respite from tragedy, not by finding happiness again, as that only leads to more loss and pain eventually. Instead he seeks it in an unfeeling, nihilistic emptiness. A desire to shut out all "goodness" from the world so it can't hurt him again. Keep in mind this was released during the golden-age of flowery "love songs", and this is a love song, it even maintains the that up-beat, rhythmic peppiness that you'd hear in most love songs from that time. The difference is the protagonist doesn't want love, he wants to be free from it. To shut the red door and paint it black.
I've heard this song since around 1987, but I apparently never listened to it. I always took it that he was moping around after a break up. I get it now.
@@gilbertgilberts1767 - Mid sixties gold. I had a 45 in my high-school days. Wore it out never sussing the cold meaning until recent days. I'm 76 years old now. It's still one of my favorites of all time.
This song really hit home for me in1981 when my wife of 6 years and she was only 25 years old died unnecessary from complications having our son. It was a very dark time for me and I didn't care about anything (except my son) for years. The line of black cars and flowers and my love to never come back sums it all up. I just wanted the sun to fade away and everything turn black.
@@doomhunter697 So true, right now my whole world is black 2 months ago the girl I thought loved me and wanted to be with me left me, after 15 days my beloved little dog princess died at 10 years old. I felt alone no one came to me. And now I'm about to lose my weekend job due to something I'm not responsible for. The worst part I am experiencing all this to as I turned 25 a days ago. My birthday a special day became darkness. It's so difficult facing up when your whole world is black.😢 I can't see anymore colors. I want to fight it all back, but sometimes I feel this is greater than me. :"(
The late Brian Jones ( founder of the Rolling Stones ) is playing the Indian Sitar! Brian died in 1969 and was a member of the much lamented ‘ 27 Club’. A number of Artists who passed away at the age of 27 years including Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Amy Whinehouse and others
This song is the classic proof that with a simple text and a music with a catchy rhythm, it becomes famous, translated and played all over the world, this is the result when a great band like the Rolling Stones created music. 🌺
Paint It Black was the theme song for the Vietnam War drama series, Tour of Duty (1987-1990). It was also used in Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket (1987).
This song comes from a time when it was not socially acceptable for men to express this kind of grief. The Stones opened a door for men's mental health with a driving, hard-hitting rhythm and a melody that kicks arse! Oh, I should mention Mick's vocal delivery, so evocative.
I can't believe I first listened to this song almost 60 years. The fact that I'm still not tired of it speaks volumes about the genius of its melody and lyrics.
My dad used to hang around with Brian Jones and Keith Richards in the 60s. When he died, Paint it Black was one of two Stones songs we played at his funeral.
@@cg9917 Nobody famous, just somebody who was pretty good friends with Brian at the time. He had a few stories and left me a few bits of memorabilia, but I don't expect any of the surviving members would remember him now.
In the 60's The Beatles were using sitars in their songs and it was all psychedelic and mystical. The Stones, in contrast, flipped the coin and wrote a song where the sitar is dark and menacing. It's no surprise it's so associated with the Vietnam War, not only was it released at the time of the war but it has also been used in virtually every TV series about the war.
i saw a live version of this song and during the humming part the whole band where looking at each other and where suprise to see the crowd humming super loud. its really catchy
Vietnam Veteran 1st Infantry Division 1968-1970. Had been married 6 months when I entered service. This was sort of a theme song for us in Nam! Wow! really brings back memories!!! 🇺🇸
Some things to know for context: Church of England (Episcopalian) churches have bright red doors on them. A girl he knew had just died. Funeral processions are a long line of Black Vehicles. You nailed it, this song is about a funeral.
@Hogtownboy1 That’s because red church doors are more an American thing than an English thing. I have occasionally seen a red church door in England (possibly Scotland?) but not often -- and I have a vague feeling of it being more Methodist. Anyway, in the context of the song, it is his own (house) door -- and the implication is that they were married.
The late great Brian Jones plays sitar on this. The song is indeed about a funeral. There are so many songs to choose from the Stones' catalogue as they are still going after 60 years, but you should probably react to "Satisfaction" next.
Please don't. It's the most overplayed song of the sixties, and the least interesting musically and lyrically, of the Stones catalog. That's why it was such a Pop hit.
Its a brilliant song, probably my favorite song by the Rolling Stones. I have always really felt connected to it, and as I have gotten older and come to terms with just how pervasive depression has been in my life, it makes sense that I would identify with it.
It's actually a very relatable song to me because I've had too many 'dark days' in my life... and listening to songs like 'Paint it black'... gives me a sense of relief that someone else has captured what I have often felt and expressed it in words.
Similar to Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones are masters of telling a story through their music. I would highly recommend listening to "Gimme Shelter" also by the Stones
You are correct, it is about a funeral. It's from the point of view of a man who wants everything else to reflect his mood by making everything black. The guitar is heavily inspired by Indian music and the sitar (a popular Indian string instrument similar to a lute).
I'm a huge Pink Floyd fan, and found your channel through your reactions to them, but this is my favorite Stones Song. I believe the chant is a traditional Gregorian chant reversed. They aren't the only ones to deal with depression; you'll see when you get to "Don't Leave Me Now" and "Goodbye, Cruel World" on PF's 'The Wall'. Thanks, as always!
Paint it Black was used in the closing credits for the 1987 movie Full Metal Jacket and the opening theme song for a TV series called Tour of Duty in the late 80's. Both about Vietnam.
OMG !!! Stacey’s heading for the Stones rabbit hole 😱 please please please can we guide her carefully down this journey . She has a long trip to travel.
Great song! Mick w his amazing voice ❤ Excellent songs n band overall! 🎉 Saw him in concert a bit older and the concert was Great! Awesome group, amazing huge list of hits! ❤ 😊
This song showcases the talents of Brian Jones arguably the progenitor of the band. A complex, controversial, and conflicted person, Brian drowned in his swimming pool after being kicked out of the band after many years of drug abuse. Brian is playing a sitar, not a guitar. He was the most innovative band member during the early years
Great reaction! When I first heard this song,the drums and the sitar overtook me.The music is very heavy.And then to understand the lyrics…just makes it brilliant!
Interesting reaction in a good way. It does really pull you in two directions. This is my favorite stones song for many reasons. It is a sad song but life can be sad. They were deeper with thier lyrics than many ever gave them credit for. Just saw them last month. It was the 6th time I have seen them starting in 1978 at JFK. They are an amazing band. And still rocking at 80 y/o!! BTW: They did this song. It was as amazing as ever.
One of the greatest songs ever. You're spot on - I think the lyrics do describe a funeral. The guitar is blended with sitar which gives the song its exotic sound. I highly recommend "Gimme Shelter" next - yet another Stones song that 'slaps' but has dark lyrics...I think the Stones might actually have invented menace in music - or at least rock n roll.
this has been my favorite Stones song since I first heard it when I was ten years old. I didn't understand it until I was 14, I related to it so much as a teen and even now in my mid twenties this song gives me a sense that I'm not alone and it feels as electric as that summer day in 2010 when it came on the radio.
Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones------the Big Four of Classic Rock. They all deserve a deep dive by you. Another great song from The Stones: Gimme Shelter (audio, or the great live version with Lisa Fischer in 1994).
This is one of Mick's vocal masterpieces. He purposely flats and sharps notes at the end of phrases, proving that missing a note can boost emotional power...if you're a great singer. It's the expression, not the melody. I used to sing this song at karaoke. I'd whip out a kazoo for the humming part.
Musically and creatively it is the artists job to reflect the world as we experience it . We all face dark times when we see the negative side of the world . Sometimes it is cathartic to hear a song like this .
The rolling stones have always been a bit of a rebel group you have got to love their inventiveness and imagination combined with their obvious musical talent they come from my era back in the sixtees and are still touring doing gigs evergreens remarkable love your reaction nice to see you playing some more groups that go back to the days of the real giants of proper rock n roll play some more please
Hey Stacey, It's been a while since I left a (not that short) shortlist. Your journey is going well, you are moving fast. For the Rolling Stones, my personal selection to cover their incredible career is : - Gimme Shelter - Sympathy for the Devil - (I can't get no) Satisfaction - You can't always get what you want - Jumping Jack Flash - Street Fighting Man - Brown Sugar - Honky Tonk Woman - Under My Thumb - Miss you - Midnight Rambler - Angie - Beast of Burden - 19th Nervous Breakdown - Ruby Tuesday (and its B-side, Let's Spend the Night Together) - Get off of my Cloud - Can't You Hear Me Knocking - Wild Horses - It's Only Rock'n Roll -Tumbling Dice - Start Me Up - Let it Bleed - Dead Flowers
60 years A Stones fan. Many times seeing them live in concert. All the songs all the memories great off friends. Special shout out to an old classmate Stones Sax man Tim Ries😄
Yes, this song hit close to home for many during the Vietnam war era. 58,200+ American service members died fighting the Vietnam war. Multiply that by an avge of 25 family members, [mother, father, grand parents x 2, aunts uncles x4, cousins, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters], thats about 1.5 million people directly affected by these deaths. I was one of them and absolutly related to this song when it was on the radio every day. Reaction ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Rolling Stones' song "Paint It Black" is about the sadness and despondency that comes with bereavement. The song's lyrics include "I want them to turn black" and "It's not easy facing up when your whole world is black".
As said in previous comments, this became a major Vietnam anthem during and after the war. It was quite allegorical after a Napalm air strike, which scorched the entire lush landscape into black soot.
The song is about grieving, depression and broken hearts. You cannot see the pleasant side, or even the colors of summer in that frame of mind. Also the sitar was popular that year after the Beatles experimented with Indian sounds.
Yes, Keith's guitar is great as always and so is Mick's excellent vocal performance here. It is after all a Jagger-Richards composition! However, this is one song where the contributions of Charlie, Bill and Brian really stand out. It is they who create the near-hypnotic sound that makes it so captivating and easy to listen to on repeat. It is hard to exaggerate exactly how great this band was in their 60s prime.
Brian Jones is the one playing sitar on this song. Although he has almost no songwriting credits, he was arguable the most innovative member of the group. Adding a sitar to the song was probably inspired by what the Beatles were doing at that time, but Brian was the one who sat down and figured out how to get that catchy sound out it that suits the song so well. My recommendation for your next Stones song is "Jumping Jack Flash." It was on a single, but it was never on an album until it was put on greatest hits albums. They shot a video for it, which was a really unusual thing to do in 1968. You can watch that or there is also a lyric video.
Michael, you may know that Brian and Bill wrote the main riff of Jumpin' Jack Flash (according to Bill), but weren't credited. Brian appears in the video, but apparently not on the record (again, according to Bill).
The Beatles introduced the idea that a pop song could be about adultery they'd attempted ("Norwegian Wood" w/sitar!) or the charade they lived ("I'm a Loser" and "Nowhere Man") part of the 60s evolution of all rock/pop bands, including the Stones who released this classic in May '66.
There are MANY stories about the inspiration to this song, but the one that sounds most true to me is this. Keith was in a hurry to get somewhere, and got stuck behind a long funeral procession. As people stopped and got out, walking to the graveside, Keith got out and asked who the funeral was for. He was told it was for an 8 year old girl. Keith was so moved, so saddened, he went back to his car and began writing this song. Is this the absolute truth? Don't know. With all the chemicals he's done, Keith Richards might not actually know.
Hey Stacy, loved your reaction to ‘Paint It Black’ by The Stones! 🎸 Your insights really resonated with me. This song, with its unique blend of raga rock and haunting lyrics, captures themes of grief and loss so powerfully. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards truly created a timeless piece that continues to evoke deep emotions. This song is from 1966!! Shit! "Can you believe it? I didn't know until now!" As a painter, I find the vivid imagery and emotional intensity of the song incredibly inspiring. It’s fascinating how music can influence art and vice versa. The Rolling Stones, despite their star status, have always managed to convey raw and relatable emotions through their music. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and bringing new perspectives to this classic track!"
Every fistfight I have ever been in, and every time I was in danger in war the chorus of this song hums in my head. I barely remembered the song from my childhood when I was in my 20's but it was always there.
This song is about the funeral for his love who has recently passed. The procession of black cars laden with the funeral flowers. All color has left his world and he's ready for his forever darkened world to end. He would rather see even the sun blackened than live on without her.
The structure is interesting. First, it's an upbeat song, musically, but about darkness and loss lyrically. This type of song is usually the most impactful (juxtaposing joy and sadness - like life). The verse is in a minor key, for sadness, but the chorus changes to a major key, for happiness. It is a more complex piece than one might think at first listening. One of their best.
The Rolling Stones are one of the greatest bands ever and I'm glad you've discovered that for yourself. As others have said, you should go with either Gimme Shelter or Sympathy for the Devil next though you may well have heard them before and just not realised it as the Stones music is used all over the place. Great reaction as always Stacey. Love & light to you.
You were right in that it is about a funeral. That kind of “Eastern vibe” you hear is a sitar (Indian instrument). That was the first rock song to use it (not “Within You and Without You” by the Beatles).
My interpretation is that red doors are used as a sign of welcoming people. He is in a dark place and wants to shut people off by painting it black. I’m guessing this song might have been written to be cathartic.
It’s one of my favorite songs, I’m old enough to have seen them on the Ed Sullivan Show, way back in the 60”s. I love your reaction. I’m looking up some of my favorite groups from the 60’s. The Doors come to mine, as well as Hendrix, Janis Joplin.
It's simple really, it's a mourning song with rage. The rage is expressed partly in the tempo but also in the will to paint the church door black. All of us who have shaken our fists against the sky gets it. There is no conflict between lyrics and music there. It's not just sadness, it's also impotent rage.
Next stop will be the song from Rolling Stones golden collection named Gimme Shelter ❤ the song that gives not only one of the best music vibes , but also goosebumps ❤
I always enjoy a juxtaposition between the subject matter of the lyrics and the music. The Stones have another striking example of dark subject matter on top of music that makes you want to dance - Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker). Keep going down this rabbit hole. Gimme Shelter, Sympathy for the Devil, Miss You and on and on and on.
Yeah, a sad song about a young girl's funeral. GIMME SHELTER, SATISFACTION (the 1965 studio recording), YOU CAN'T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT (from the album Let It Bleed), MIDNIGHT RAMBLER and MONKEY MAN are some more of my 'Stones favorites.
Hi Stacy Thank you for your very emotional and passionate reactions to some of the worlds best music including The Rolling Stones which a lot of young people like you have missed out. Have you ever listened to Black Sabbath with Ozzy Osbourne? If not start listening to War Pigs and Paranoid. And then go further into listening to their first albums. And if you want some Irish Music mixed with punk and poetry listen to The Pouges, you can start with their slow Christmas song Fairytale in New York. And then newer miss out on Bowie, Dylan and Cohen, the last to for real deep poetry lyrics. Bowie for being so innovative. But start with Is. there life on Mars? And about Stones, have you listened to Can’t you hear me Knocking and Midnight Rambler? Have a great day.
Great reaction, you nailed it! Watching this I learnt a bit more about this song, thanks! I always knew it was a sad/angry song, but I had never really got the bit about it being his young ladies funeral. 19th nervous breakdown next perhaps?
I was just a kid of 9yrs old when Paint it Black was released and i loved it, i was more a stones fan back then than the Beatles who were for me a pop band for screaming girls. I know the stones had screaming girls aswell but i never thought of the stones as pop even though i was very young, i also loved Peter greens Fleetwood mac, status quo, the kinks etc so a Rock sound.
He's lamenting the loss of his girlfriend/wife (his love) and how he feels so lost. I believe most people go through this when they suffer this type of loss, but when we step back a few steps, we can see there is light beyond the darkness.
Stacey, this song also played a very important part of the movie, "A Stir Of Echoes", starring Kevin Bacon. EXCELLENT movie, and I would HIGHLY recommend it.
Damn good driving song of 60's! I jamming in tune while take a night drive. Reminds me of MAFIA 3 -game and its long nightly drives trhough the highways of New Bordeau of 67's on PS4.
The song was not written with the Vietnam War in mind, but it did became the unofficial anthem long before 80s TV series and movies made it populair again; since it so much resonated with and reflected the reality of those involved and affected by the war (and it's politics) ...
The component of this song that sticks (in my head) most with this song is a sound, like a fast rev of an engine. It starts around 5:54 (2:19 of the studio version) and continues periodically to the end of the song. Does anyone know anything as to how this effect was created? The sound further enhances the song's gloomy vibe.
A very interesting instrumental cover of this song (or even a mini-suite) was recently made in the series "Wednesday". This is a composition with a solo cello, stylistically closer, probably, to Vivaldi. I highly recommend it. You can find it on RUclips by the lines: 1) _Wednesday Serie Scene Wednesday Plays The Cello "Paint in Black" solo performance_ [this is the original video sequence from the series, but there are parts with the volume down] 2) _Paint It Black - Wednesday Original Soundtrack_ [this is exactly the original soundtrack, but without the video sequence] PS. And yes, Leo Moracchioli made a very interesting metal cover of this song. In general, Leo has made a lot of interesting and fun metal covers of songs of different styles and genres.
The young man walks to the church. He is on foot to the funeral of his girl. The cortege passes. He sees the hearse and the funeral wreaths. On the way he sees young women in their summer dresses and they bring back memories of the happy times they had. He hangs back, because he knows this is their final goodbye. People passing turn away, knowing not what to say. The final cars have entered the churchyard. He swallows back his grief and follows them all in.
🇨🇦 This is the closest explanation ! 🇨🇦
A very good take on the symbolism.
The only thing I would add:
The "red door" in this context symbolizes "love".
It was a metaphor coined by William Blake, which Aldous Huxley built upon in his 1954 book "The Doors of Perception". That work became foundational to the 1960s new-age movement, you find doors used as symbolism in things like Wicca (which was founded around that time, it's not "ancient", lol).
In the more new-age context, these doors in the mind and/or spirit, were "unlocked" by meditation, insight, and psychedelic drugs. Each door signified a different aspect of being, and you needed to unlock them all to be complete. This concept is actually where the band "The Doors" got their name.
The desire to "paint it black", is to consign himself to the grief, to bury his love for her alongside her, rather than go on feeling his loss.
It's seeking respite from tragedy, not by finding happiness again, as that only leads to more loss and pain eventually. Instead he seeks it in an unfeeling, nihilistic emptiness. A desire to shut out all "goodness" from the world so it can't hurt him again.
Keep in mind this was released during the golden-age of flowery "love songs", and this is a love song, it even maintains the that up-beat, rhythmic peppiness that you'd hear in most love songs from that time. The difference is the protagonist doesn't want love, he wants to be free from it. To shut the red door and paint it black.
he doesn't want to see red anymore.
piece of history.
when was this song released
I've heard this song since around 1987, but I apparently never listened to it. I always took it that he was moping around after a break up. I get it now.
@@gilbertgilberts1767 - Mid sixties gold.
I had a 45 in my high-school days.
Wore it out never sussing the cold meaning until recent days.
I'm 76 years old now.
It's still one of my favorites of all time.
It is a funeral procession. A song about loss. Adopted by veterans of Vietnam-with reason.
This song really hit home for me in1981 when my wife of 6 years and she was only 25 years old died unnecessary from complications having our son. It was a very dark time for me and I didn't care about anything (except my son) for years. The line of black cars and flowers and my love to never come back sums it all up. I just wanted the sun to fade away and everything turn black.
This is exactly what this song is about -- and almost exactly what has happened to the (imaginary) protagonist.
❤❤❤
I believe the catchiness reflects how many cope with grief - dying inside but putting on a brave facade.
This song can be very cathartic when dealing with the loss of a loved one.
Brilliant, the tune is so peppy and the lyrics so dark, the beat represents life goes on
@@doomhunter697 So true, right now my whole world is black 2 months ago the girl I thought loved me and wanted to be with me left me, after 15 days my beloved little dog princess died at 10 years old. I felt alone no one came to me. And now I'm about to lose my weekend job due to something I'm not responsible for. The worst part I am experiencing all this to as I turned 25 a days ago. My birthday a special day became darkness. It's so difficult facing up when your whole world is black.😢 I can't see anymore colors.
I want to fight it all back, but sometimes I feel this is greater than me. :"(
The Rolling Stones - Sympathy For The Devil , will blow your mind. Please do this song next.
The late Brian Jones ( founder of the Rolling Stones ) is playing the Indian Sitar! Brian died in 1969 and was a member of the much lamented ‘ 27 Club’. A number of Artists who passed away at the age of 27 years including Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Amy Whinehouse and others
That guitar is a sitar from India, Brian Jones the founding father of The Rolling Stones God rest his soul, is playing it.
This song is the classic proof that with a simple text and a music with a catchy rhythm, it becomes famous, translated and played all over the world, this is the result when a great band like the Rolling Stones created music. 🌺
Sympathy for the Devil and Gimmie Shelter should be next! Great Job Stacey!
The Pain cover of Gimmie Shelter is amazing too. Highly recommend you and Stacey check it out.
Paint It Black was the theme song for the Vietnam War drama series, Tour of Duty (1987-1990). It was also used in Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket (1987).
This song comes from a time when it was not socially acceptable for men to express this kind of grief. The Stones opened a door for men's mental health with a driving, hard-hitting rhythm and a melody that kicks arse! Oh, I should mention Mick's vocal delivery, so evocative.
I can't believe I first listened to this song almost 60 years. The fact that I'm still not tired of it speaks volumes about the genius of its melody and lyrics.
Me, too. And same here.
Me too😂😂❤
My dad used to hang around with Brian Jones and Keith Richards in the 60s. When he died, Paint it Black was one of two Stones songs we played at his funeral.
Stop with the lies...
@@Rothschildpobretao Nice.
Who is your dad?
@@cg9917 Nobody famous, just somebody who was pretty good friends with Brian at the time. He had a few stories and left me a few bits of memorabilia, but I don't expect any of the surviving members would remember him now.
@@davidhills3100 wow, thanks for sharing this!
Vietnam. Sad time, angry time, lots of darkness, this song hit home for millions.
Your right JBJ and I'm one of them. I served two combat tours in Vietnam with the Marine Corps.(1965-66/1970-71).
T,. Boyte
GySgt. USMC, retired
@@OcotilloTomWelcome home, brother.
Not sure, but i think this song was written either for or during the vietnam war. Tho i could be wrong.
@@leroyhansen1094 1966. So during, but definitely not about.
This song isn't about Vietnam, but it was appropriated by people who wanted it to be about Vietnam.
Up next: Sympathy for the Devil... and get the lyrics. :-)
💯
Oh absolutely! That song is amazing!
Rock and Rock Circus live version!
Yes please
Yesss! No Sympathy for first time listeners.😊
For us old folks that is a flash back to Vietnam. It was used a lot during that time period!
so true
my papa played it alot. he was in the shit in Nam.
In the 60's The Beatles were using sitars in their songs and it was all psychedelic and mystical. The Stones, in contrast, flipped the coin and wrote a song where the sitar is dark and menacing. It's no surprise it's so associated with the Vietnam War, not only was it released at the time of the war but it has also been used in virtually every TV series about the war.
i saw a live version of this song and during the humming part the whole band where looking at each other and where suprise to see the crowd humming super loud. its really catchy
Vietnam Veteran 1st Infantry Division 1968-1970. Had been married 6 months when I entered service. This was sort of a theme song for us in Nam! Wow! really brings back memories!!! 🇺🇸
He's not just sad and depressed, he's angry that others are not feeling the same way.
Some things to know for context:
Church of England (Episcopalian) churches have bright red doors on them.
A girl he knew had just died.
Funeral processions are a long line of Black Vehicles.
You nailed it, this song is about a funeral.
Thanks. Im 73 and didn’t know this about C of E red doors
@Hogtownboy1 That’s because red church doors are more an American thing than an English thing. I have occasionally seen a red church door in England (possibly Scotland?) but not often -- and I have a vague feeling of it being more Methodist. Anyway, in the context of the song, it is his own (house) door -- and the implication is that they were married.
Mick Jagger, the OG goth rocker.
The late great Brian Jones plays sitar on this. The song is indeed about a funeral. There are so many songs to choose from the Stones' catalogue as they are still going after 60 years, but you should probably react to "Satisfaction" next.
Please don't. It's the most overplayed song of the sixties, and the least interesting musically and lyrically, of the Stones catalog. That's why it was such a Pop hit.
His voice is unmatched in many RS songs. Their music always grabs the listener and shakes them like a dog with his favorite toy. What joy.
The singing in Gimme Shelter will blow your mind.
Its a brilliant song, probably my favorite song by the Rolling Stones. I have always really felt connected to it, and as I have gotten older and come to terms with just how pervasive depression has been in my life, it makes sense that I would identify with it.
This is my favourite Rolling Stones song. In part because of the contrast between the music and the lyrics. It's a beautiful tension.
It's actually a very relatable song to me because I've had too many 'dark days' in my life... and listening to songs like 'Paint it black'... gives me a sense of relief that someone else has captured what I have often felt and expressed it in words.
That is exactly the role of the artist (singer/songwriter.)
Similar to Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones are masters of telling a story through their music. I would highly recommend listening to "Gimme Shelter" also by the Stones
Sitar. An Indian Sitar is what gives the unique sound
You are correct, it is about a funeral. It's from the point of view of a man who wants everything else to reflect his mood by making everything black.
The guitar is heavily inspired by Indian music and the sitar (a popular Indian string instrument similar to a lute).
I'm a huge Pink Floyd fan, and found your channel through your reactions to them, but this is my favorite Stones Song. I believe the chant is a traditional Gregorian chant reversed. They aren't the only ones to deal with depression; you'll see when you get to "Don't Leave Me Now" and "Goodbye, Cruel World" on PF's 'The Wall'. Thanks, as always!
Thanks old guy here this is one of my favorite songs by the Stones
Paint it Black was used in the closing credits for the 1987 movie Full Metal Jacket and the opening theme song for a TV series called Tour of Duty in the late 80's. Both about Vietnam.
Also played in the credits screen in the game Twisted Metal Black.
I believe the tv show was “China Beach”😎
OMG !!! Stacey’s heading for the Stones rabbit hole 😱 please please please can we guide her carefully down this journey . She has a long trip to travel.
Great song! Mick w his amazing voice ❤ Excellent songs n band overall! 🎉 Saw him in concert a bit older and the concert was Great! Awesome group, amazing huge list of hits! ❤ 😊
This song is one of my favorites by the Stones.
This song showcases the talents of Brian Jones arguably the progenitor of the band. A complex, controversial, and conflicted person, Brian drowned in his swimming pool after being kicked out of the band after many years of drug abuse. Brian is playing a sitar, not a guitar. He was the most innovative band member during the early years
Great reaction! When I first heard this song,the drums and the sitar overtook me.The music is very heavy.And then to understand the lyrics…just makes it brilliant!
Interesting reaction in a good way. It does really pull you in two directions. This is my favorite stones song for many reasons. It is a sad song but life can be sad. They were deeper with thier lyrics than many ever gave them credit for. Just saw them last month. It was the 6th time I have seen them starting in 1978 at JFK. They are an amazing band. And still rocking at 80 y/o!! BTW: They did this song. It was as amazing as ever.
One of the greatest songs ever. You're spot on - I think the lyrics do describe a funeral. The guitar is blended with sitar which gives the song its exotic sound.
I highly recommend "Gimme Shelter" next - yet another Stones song that 'slaps' but has dark lyrics...I think the Stones might actually have invented menace in music - or at least rock n roll.
It's, so dark and intense, sounds deep and exotic and has an element of poignancy about it. The lyrics are brilliant, about depression, grief.
this has been my favorite Stones song since I first heard it when I was ten years old. I didn't understand it until I was 14, I related to it so much as a teen and even now in my mid twenties this song gives me a sense that I'm not alone and it feels as electric as that summer day in 2010 when it came on the radio.
Love them live! i've seen them so many times in concert!!! R.I.P. Charlie Watts. nothing like seeing an 80 year old drummer rocking out in concert!!!
Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones------the Big Four of Classic Rock. They all deserve a deep dive by you. Another great song from The Stones: Gimme Shelter (audio, or the great live version with Lisa Fischer in 1994).
Love your reactions! On a side note: Your voice is lovely, and i could just chill listening to you narrate a favorite audio book, or two. 😊
You hit it on the nail. The darkness that descends over life upon the event of of loosing someone close ...
Thanks Stacey for your ideas and insights. Very lively, very invigourating.
This is one of Mick's vocal masterpieces. He purposely flats and sharps notes at the end of phrases, proving that missing a note can boost emotional power...if you're a great singer. It's the expression, not the melody.
I used to sing this song at karaoke. I'd whip out a kazoo for the humming part.
Musically and creatively it is the artists job to reflect the world as we experience it . We all face dark times when we see the negative side of the world . Sometimes it is cathartic to hear a song like this .
This song, such a contrast between the Music & Lyrics!
Love it & Love The Content Here!
StaceyRPG FTW!
nuff said.
First music I ever listened to back in 85 as a six year old, as a result I ignored modern music until I become a teen, old is better 🇬🇧👍
Can't You Hear Me Knockin'? .....for the WIN....LOVE the Mick Taylor era of the Stones...
The rolling stones have always been a bit of a rebel group you have got to love their inventiveness and imagination combined with their obvious musical talent they come from my era back in the sixtees and are still touring doing gigs evergreens remarkable love your reaction nice to see you playing some more groups that go back to the days of the real giants of proper rock n roll play some more please
Hey Stacey,
It's been a while since I left a (not that short) shortlist. Your journey is going well, you are moving fast.
For the Rolling Stones, my personal selection to cover their incredible career is :
- Gimme Shelter
- Sympathy for the Devil
- (I can't get no) Satisfaction
- You can't always get what you want
- Jumping Jack Flash
- Street Fighting Man
- Brown Sugar
- Honky Tonk Woman
- Under My Thumb
- Miss you
- Midnight Rambler
- Angie
- Beast of Burden
- 19th Nervous Breakdown
- Ruby Tuesday (and its B-side, Let's Spend the Night Together)
- Get off of my Cloud
- Can't You Hear Me Knocking
- Wild Horses
- It's Only Rock'n Roll
-Tumbling Dice
- Start Me Up
- Let it Bleed
- Dead Flowers
60 years A Stones fan. Many times seeing them live in concert. All the songs all the memories great off friends. Special shout out to an old classmate Stones Sax man Tim Ries😄
Hi Stacey great reaction, this is one of my favorite Rolling Stones' song greetings from Guadalajara Mexico!
Yes, this song hit close to home for many during the Vietnam war era. 58,200+ American service members died fighting the Vietnam war. Multiply that by an avge of 25 family members, [mother, father, grand parents x 2, aunts uncles x4, cousins, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters], thats about 1.5 million people directly affected by these deaths. I was one of them and absolutly related to this song when it was on the radio every day.
Reaction ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Rolling Stones' song "Paint It Black" is about the sadness and despondency that comes with bereavement. The song's lyrics include "I want them to turn black" and "It's not easy facing up when your whole world is black".
As said in previous comments, this became a major Vietnam anthem during and after the war. It was quite allegorical after a Napalm air strike, which scorched the entire lush landscape into black soot.
The song is about grieving, depression and broken hearts. You cannot see the pleasant side, or even the colors of summer in that frame of mind. Also the sitar was popular that year after the Beatles experimented with Indian sounds.
Thanks Stacey for this song !! i love the guitar of Keith Richards , So cool Stacey as always !!!❤
Brian Jones on sitar bud
@@hognaut Keith is still playing guitar though.
Yes, Keith's guitar is great as always and so is Mick's excellent vocal performance here. It is after all a Jagger-Richards composition! However, this is one song where the contributions of Charlie, Bill and Brian really stand out. It is they who create the near-hypnotic sound that makes it so captivating and easy to listen to on repeat. It is hard to exaggerate exactly how great this band was in their 60s prime.
@@ARD-lk5pr yes he is, but he's playing an acoustic guitar and I don't think that is what Stacey is referring to
@@hognaut There is also an electric guitar in that recording.
Brian Jones is the one playing sitar on this song. Although he has almost no songwriting credits, he was arguable the most innovative member of the group. Adding a sitar to the song was probably inspired by what the Beatles were doing at that time, but Brian was the one who sat down and figured out how to get that catchy sound out it that suits the song so well.
My recommendation for your next Stones song is "Jumping Jack Flash." It was on a single, but it was never on an album until it was put on greatest hits albums. They shot a video for it, which was a really unusual thing to do in 1968. You can watch that or there is also a lyric video.
Michael, you may know that Brian and Bill wrote the main riff of Jumpin' Jack Flash (according to Bill), but weren't credited. Brian appears in the video, but apparently not on the record (again, according to Bill).
You should hear "Gimmie Shelter"! That is a dark but super cool song!
One of the greatest for sure!
Plus great guest vocals by Merry Clayton!
The Beatles introduced the idea that a pop song could be about adultery they'd attempted ("Norwegian Wood" w/sitar!) or the charade they lived ("I'm a Loser" and "Nowhere Man") part of the 60s evolution of all rock/pop bands, including the Stones who released this classic in May '66.
The Beatles opened the door, and the Stones kicked it off its hinges.
Well said!
Beatles didn't just open the door they built the damn thing
👍👍👍
beatles are the most overrated band in history 💀
You're delusional. @@-scrim
There are MANY stories about the inspiration to this song, but the one that sounds most true to me is this. Keith was in a hurry to get somewhere, and got stuck behind a long funeral procession. As people stopped and got out, walking to the graveside, Keith got out and asked who the funeral was for. He was told it was for an 8 year old girl.
Keith was so moved, so saddened, he went back to his car and began writing this song.
Is this the absolute truth? Don't know. With all the chemicals he's done, Keith Richards might not actually know.
It's, "I want to see the Sun, blotted out from the sky." Great song.
Hey Stacy, loved your reaction to ‘Paint It Black’ by The Stones! 🎸 Your insights really resonated with me. This song, with its unique blend of raga rock and haunting lyrics, captures themes of grief and loss so powerfully. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards truly created a timeless piece that continues to evoke deep emotions. This song is from 1966!! Shit! "Can you believe it? I didn't know until now!"
As a painter, I find the vivid imagery and emotional intensity of the song incredibly inspiring. It’s fascinating how music can influence art and vice versa. The Rolling Stones, despite their star status, have always managed to convey raw and relatable emotions through their music. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and bringing new perspectives to this classic track!"
Every fistfight I have ever been in, and every time I was in danger in war the chorus of this song hums in my head. I barely remembered the song from my childhood when I was in my 20's but it was always there.
This song is about the funeral for his love who has recently passed. The procession of black cars laden with the funeral flowers. All color has left his world and he's ready for his forever darkened world to end. He would rather see even the sun blackened than live on without her.
The structure is interesting. First, it's an upbeat song, musically, but about darkness and loss lyrically. This type of song is usually the most impactful (juxtaposing joy and sadness - like life). The verse is in a minor key, for sadness, but the chorus changes to a major key, for happiness. It is a more complex piece than one might think at first listening. One of their best.
You nailed it. Charlie Watts pounding away with a Sitar working. Bill Wyman bass line...just a great song.
The Rolling Stones are one of the greatest bands ever and I'm glad you've discovered that for yourself. As others have said, you should go with either Gimme Shelter or Sympathy for the Devil next though you may well have heard them before and just not realised it as the Stones music is used all over the place.
Great reaction as always Stacey. Love & light to you.
You were right in that it is about a funeral. That kind of “Eastern vibe” you hear is a sitar (Indian instrument). That was the first rock song to use it (not “Within You and Without You” by the Beatles).
My interpretation is that red doors are used as a sign of welcoming people. He is in a dark place and wants to shut people off by painting it black. I’m guessing this song might have been written to be cathartic.
It’s one of my favorite songs, I’m old enough to have seen them on the Ed Sullivan Show, way back in the 60”s. I love your reaction. I’m looking up some of my favorite groups from the 60’s. The Doors come to mine, as well as Hendrix, Janis Joplin.
It's simple really, it's a mourning song with rage. The rage is expressed partly in the tempo but also in the will to paint the church door black. All of us who have shaken our fists against the sky gets it. There is no conflict between lyrics and music there. It's not just sadness, it's also impotent rage.
Next stop will be the song from Rolling Stones golden collection named Gimme Shelter ❤ the song that gives not only one of the best music vibes , but also goosebumps ❤
I always enjoy a juxtaposition between the subject matter of the lyrics and the music. The Stones have another striking example of dark subject matter on top of music that makes you want to dance - Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker). Keep going down this rabbit hole. Gimme Shelter, Sympathy for the Devil, Miss You and on and on and on.
The Rolling Stones "Can't You Hear Me Knocking"...TRUST ME on this one my music lovin' sister. 🔥❤️🔥
This song also ends the movie Full Metal Jacket. Love you and love your channel !🙂
Yeah, a sad song about a young girl's funeral. GIMME SHELTER, SATISFACTION (the 1965 studio recording), YOU CAN'T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT (from the album Let It Bleed), MIDNIGHT RAMBLER and MONKEY MAN are some more of my 'Stones favorites.
Having grown up in the 70's, we had no clue what the lyrics were to most of the songs we listened to!!! 😂? Nice reaction!
Hi Stacy
Thank you for your very emotional and passionate reactions to some of the worlds best music including The Rolling Stones which a lot of young people like you have missed out. Have you ever listened to Black Sabbath with Ozzy Osbourne? If not start listening to War Pigs and Paranoid. And then go further into listening to their first albums. And if you want some Irish Music mixed with punk and poetry listen to The Pouges, you can start with their slow Christmas song Fairytale in New York. And then newer miss out on Bowie, Dylan and Cohen, the last to for real deep poetry lyrics. Bowie for being so innovative. But start with Is. there life on Mars? And about Stones, have you listened to Can’t you hear me Knocking and Midnight Rambler? Have a great day.
Great reaction, you nailed it! Watching this I learnt a bit more about this song, thanks! I always knew it was a sad/angry song, but I had never really got the bit about it being his young ladies funeral. 19th nervous breakdown next perhaps?
Looking good Stacy. Thanks for coming back to one of the best bands for decades.
I was just a kid of 9yrs old when Paint it Black was released and i loved it, i was more a stones fan back then than the Beatles who were for me a pop band for screaming girls. I know the stones had screaming girls aswell but i never thought of the stones as pop even though i was very young, i also loved Peter greens Fleetwood mac, status quo, the kinks etc so a Rock sound.
Very perceptive !! You are the first reactor to get it immediately spot on ... The key was "The Flowers and My Love Never to Come Back".
He's lamenting the loss of his girlfriend/wife (his love) and how he feels so lost. I believe most people go through this when they suffer this type of loss, but when we step back a few steps, we can see there is light beyond the darkness.
Stacey, this song also played a very important part of the movie, "A Stir Of Echoes", starring Kevin Bacon. EXCELLENT movie, and I would HIGHLY recommend it.
This is easily one of the greatest songs ever written.
Aftermath (where Paint It Black appears) is the first album I purchased. 1966. It was the Spring B4 my freshman year of high school.
Damn good driving song of 60's! I jamming in tune while take a night drive.
Reminds me of MAFIA 3 -game and its long nightly drives trhough the highways of New Bordeau of 67's on PS4.
The song was not written with the Vietnam War in mind, but it did became the unofficial anthem long before 80s TV series and movies made it populair again; since it so much resonated with and reflected the reality of those involved and affected by the war (and it's politics) ...
Another Great Reaction Stacey! Love your reactions, especially for QUEEN
This is the Stones in the psychedelic era with Brian Jones playing a sitar (not easy)
You're instincts and impressions are spot on Stacey - you're also the foxiest reviewer out there.
Great song great reaction! Thank you very much
The component of this song that sticks (in my head) most with this song is a sound, like a fast rev of an engine. It starts around 5:54 (2:19 of the studio version) and continues periodically to the end of the song. Does anyone know anything as to how this effect was created? The sound further enhances the song's gloomy vibe.
A very interesting instrumental cover of this song (or even a mini-suite) was recently made in the series "Wednesday". This is a composition with a solo cello, stylistically closer, probably, to Vivaldi.
I highly recommend it.
You can find it on RUclips by the lines:
1) _Wednesday Serie Scene Wednesday Plays The Cello "Paint in Black" solo performance_
[this is the original video sequence from the series, but there are parts with the volume down]
2) _Paint It Black - Wednesday Original Soundtrack_
[this is exactly the original soundtrack, but without the video sequence]
PS. And yes, Leo Moracchioli made a very interesting metal cover of this song.
In general, Leo has made a lot of interesting and fun metal covers of songs of different styles and genres.