Paint It, Black – The Rolling Stones

“As a VN combat vet I brought home horrible demons it took me 40+ years to shed. I went thru periods of violence, crime, drug use, bar fighting, multiple wives, kids, etc. Trust me when I say there is nothing romantic or fun about real combat. Every vet I know has or had issues of trauma. My PTSD is now in a manageable place. I have good relationships, true love, a peaceful heart and demeanor. It IS possible to heal from traumas.” -barrybrierly9536

“Paint It, Black” by The Rolling Stones has often been associated with the Vietnam War era, although the song itself doesn’t explicitly mention the conflict. However, its release in 1966 coincided with a period of heightened American involvement in the war, and the song’s themes of darkness, despair, and emotional turmoil resonated with many who were experiencing the tumultuous events of the time.

During the Vietnam War, popular music served as a powerful medium for expressing opposition to the war, reflecting the mood of a generation disillusioned by the conflict. “Paint It, Black” captured the sense of anguish and alienation felt by many young people, whether they were directly involved in the war or protesting against it. The song’s dark and brooding atmosphere tapped into the pervasive sense of unease and uncertainty prevalent during the era.

Furthermore, the sitar riff in “Paint It, Black” added an exotic and otherworldly quality to the song, which some listeners interpreted as a nod to the cultural shifts occurring in the 1960s, including increased interest in Eastern spirituality and philosophy, as well as the influence of psychedelic drugs like LSD.

While “Paint It, Black” may not have been written specifically about the Vietnam War, its themes of mourning and existential despair resonated deeply with many who were affected by the conflict, making it an anthem of sorts for a generation grappling with the complexities of war and social change. As a result, the song has become closely linked with the broader cultural landscape of the 1960s and the Vietnam War era in particular.

“Paint It, Black” was a commercial success, reaching the number one spot on both the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and the UK Singles Chart. It remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most popular and enduring songs, frequently appearing on lists of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its influence can also be seen in various covers and references in popular culture over the years, cementing its status as a classic rock staple.