Rolling Stones - Paint it Black b/w Long Long While 7" PS Vinyl Single
By the mid-1960s, rock music was rapidly evolving. The British Invasion had already reshaped global pop culture, with The Beatles, The Kinks, The Who, The Yardbirds, and others pushing boundaries. Psychedelia was emerging, folk rock was rising, and non-Western instrumentation was beginning to infiltrate the mainstream. The year 1966 was pivotal: The Beatles released Revolver, Bob Dylan toured with an electric band, and the counterculture was gaining momentum in both the UK and the USA.
Amid that creative ferment, The Rolling Stones—long known for their blues-rooted rock & roll—were seeking new directions. The release of “Paint It Black / Long Long While” as a 7″ single in 1966 captures that moment of transition: the band embracing darker themes, novel instrumentation, and a more introspective edge.
“Paint It Black” is often classified as raga rock or psychedelic rock, due largely to its use of the sitar and modal, Eastern-inflected melodies. Yet it retains the driving backbeat, blues sensibility, and dark romanticism that are hallmarks of The Stones’ sound.
In 1966, other artists were experimenting similarly: The Beatles had used sitar in “Norwegian Wood,” The Byrds and The Doors were exploring Indian scales, and The Byrds’ “Eight Miles High” helped define the psychedelic era. Still, The Stones’ approach in “Paint It Black” stood out because they wove the Eastern influence into a forceful rock framework rather than as a mere exotic accent.
At first glance, “Paint It Black” seems deceptively simple—dark lyrics and steady rhythm—but its structure is remarkably innovative. The opening riff, played on sitar, immediately establishes a haunting, circular motif. That riff is echoed by acoustic and electric guitar lines, bass, drums, and organ. Bill Wyman (bass) and Charlie Watts (drums) drive the track with a relentless pulse, while Mick Jagger delivers the vocal in a tense, expressive tone, reflecting grief and existential unease.
The contrast of Eastern instrumentation (sitar) with Western rock rhythm gives the song its hypnotic tension. Castanets and Hammond organ add rhythmic color and depth. Rather than using the sitar as decoration, Brian Jones integrated it fully into the arrangement, turning the song into something both foreign and familiar.
The B-side, “Long Long While,” offers contrast—a blues-infused ballad built on piano and organ, revealing the band’s lingering affection for soul and R&B traditions.
The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, as were most Rolling Stones originals from this era. But Brian Jones was the creative catalyst, introducing the sitar and re-shaping the melody around its hypnotic sound. His growing fascination with non-Western instruments added a distinctive dimension to the Stones’ recordings between 1966 and 1967.
Produced by Andrew Loog Oldham and engineered by Dave Hassinger at RCA Studios in Los Angeles, the recording sessions took place in March 1966. Early takes reportedly leaned toward a straightforward rock rhythm until the sitar part and organ were incorporated. The resulting arrangement—balancing Jones’ sitar, Wyman’s rhythmic drive, Watts’ percussion, and Jagger’s commanding vocal—created one of the decade’s most haunting singles.
The Rolling Stones were formed in London in 1962 by Brian Jones, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, Charlie Watts, and Ian Stewart. By 1966, Stewart had stepped away from the main line-up but continued as a session musician. The band had transitioned from performing blues and R&B covers to writing original material that reflected their growing confidence and experimentation.
The Aftermath sessions, from which this single emerged, marked the first time the group recorded an entire album of Jagger/Richards compositions. Brian Jones’ multi-instrumental abilities expanded their sonic palette, while Jagger and Richards developed as songwriters exploring new lyrical and emotional territory.
“Paint It Black” quickly became a global hit, topping charts in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Its ominous lyrics and Eastern motifs were viewed as bold, even unsettling. Some radio stations and critics interpreted its title—mistakenly printed with a comma as “Paint It, Black”—as racially suggestive, prompting confusion and occasional censorship. The band later clarified that the comma was a printing error.
While some accused The Stones of mimicking The Beatles’ use of sitar, others recognized their approach as more aggressive and rhythmically intense. The song’s funereal imagery and emotional depth aligned with the darker social undercurrents of the mid-1960s, resonating with audiences amid political unrest and the shadow of the Vietnam War.
English Rock / Psychedelic Rock (UK)
“Paint It Black” blends early British rock and blues roots with psychedelic and raga influences. Its use of sitar and modal melodies marked one of the first major fusions of Eastern instrumentation with Western rock, influencing later artists in psychedelic and progressive rock movements.
Decca Records – Cat#: DL 25240 / XDR 38032
Standard 7″ Picture Sleeve with printed front and plain reverse.
Record Format: 7" Single Vinyl
Total Weight: 50g
1966 – Germany
Over the decennia the line-up of "The Rolling Stones" has been changed several times read the mini-biographies of the best known stones
The Rolling Stones' "Aftermath" (1966) stands as a pivotal moment in rock history, showcasing the band's songwriting prowess and sonic experimentation. The UK and US versions differ slightly, but both feature classics like "Paint It, Black" and "Under My Thumb."
Aftermath Netherlands Release on Decca Records Aftermath Netherlands Release on London Records )
"Around and Around" isn't just another Rolling Stones album, it's a raw, bluesy ride showcasing their early energy. Released in 1964, this LP features covers and originals, capturing the essence of their live shows. Tracks like "It's All Over Now" and the title track prove why they became rock legends.
Around and Around German 1970 Release - Around and Around Holland 1970 Release
Ah, "Beggars Banquet" from 1968, now that's a landmark release! This album marked a return to the Stones' bluesy roots, but with a darker, more mature edge. You'll find classics like "Sympathy for the Devil" and "Street Fighting Man," showcasing their raw power and social commentary
British release of Beggars Banquet German Release of Beggars Banquet
"Between the Buttons," released in 1967, is a fascinating album showcasing the Rolling Stones' creative evolution. It's known for having three distinct album cover variations, each a collector's item in its own right! The music itself blends psychedelia, pop, and their classic rock 'n' roll sound
Between Buttons German Release Between The Buttons Israel Release Between the Buttons West-German Release )
Now, "Big Hits (High Tide and Green Grass)" is a real treat for anyone new to the Rolling Stones or looking for a perfect overview of their early, energetic sound. Released in 1966, this compilation packs a punch with hits like "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," "Get Off of My Cloud," and "The Last Time."
Big Hits (High Tide And Green Grass) German Release - Big Hits (High Tide and Green Grass) Israel PAX Record Big Hits (High Tide and Green Grass) Special Edition Netherlands
Rolling Stones Records 1A 062-63187 / CUN 59105A , 1976 , Holland
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DECCA 6.24321 , Year , Made in Germany
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Collector's Only 12" Vinyl LP
"December's Children (And Everybody's)" is a pivotal Rolling Stones album, showcasing their evolution from blues covers to original songwriting. Released in 1965, it features hits like "Get Off of My Cloud" alongside R&B-infused tracks and Dylan-esque ballads, capturing the band's raw energy.
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Rolling Stones Records – CBS 86321 , 1986 , Europe
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Dirty Work (1986, Europe) 12" Vinyl LP
The Dutch and German pressings of the Rolling Stones' "Emotional Rescue" offer a unique listening experience for vinyl enthusiasts. These 1980 releases boast exceptional audio quality, capturing the album's blend of disco, rock, and ballads with clarity and warmth.
Dutch Release of "Emotional Rescue" incl Poster German Release of "Emotional Rescue"
Rolling Stones Records – COC 69 100 , 1972 , Netherlands
"Exile on Main Street" is the Rolling Stones' gritty, sprawling masterpiece from 1972. This double LP captures the band at their rawest, blending blues, rock, and country influences into a loose, jam-heavy sound. It's a sonic journey through the highs and lows of rock 'n' roll excess, with classics
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COC 59101 , 1973 , Germany
"Goats Head Soup" is a classic Rolling Stones album from 1973, featuring the iconic ballad "Angie." It showcases the band's signature bluesy rock sound with a touch of experimentation, making it a must-have for any vinyl collector.
Goats Head Soup (1973, Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
Rolling Stones Records COC 59 103 , 1974 , Germany
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It's Only Rock and Roll (1974, Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
"Let It Bleed," released in 1969, is a blues-infused rock masterpiece by the Rolling Stones. This iconic album features raw energy and dark undertones, capturing the turbulent spirit of the late '60s. Tracks like "Gimme Shelter" and "You Can't Always Get What You Want" showcase the band's musical maturity.
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COC 59 104 , 1975 , Germany
"Made In The Shade," released in 1975, is a compilation album showcasing the Rolling Stones' iconic hits from the early 1970s. It features essential tracks like "Brown Sugar," "Tumbling Dice," and "Angie," providing a snapshot of the band's peak during that era.
Made In The Shade (1975, Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
LONDON 820 673 , 1970 , Netherlands
Released in 1965, "The Rolling Stones No. 2" captures the band's early raw energy and passion for blues and R&B. Filled with electrifying covers and Jagger/Richards originals, it showcases their musical exploration and establishes them as a driving force in the British Invasion.
No 2 / Vol 2 (1970, Holland) 12" LP
Decca – 6835 107 , 1965 , Netherlands
"Out Of Our Heads," released in 1965, showcases the Rolling Stones' evolution. The album's blend of blues covers and Jagger/Richards originals, including their iconic "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," perfectly captures their raw energy and rebellious spirit. It's a pivotal record that cemented their place
- Out Of Our Heads (1965, Netherlands) - Out Of Our Heads (1965, USA)
"Rolled Gold," released in 1975, is a classic Rolling Stones compilation featuring their biggest hits from the 1960s and early '70s. It's a perfect introduction for new fans or a nostalgic trip for longtime listeners, showcasing the band's evolution from bluesy rockers to stadium-filling icons.
Rolled Gold on Decca Records, Germany Rolled Gold on Nova Records Germany
Record Label Information: , 1982 , East-Germany
This 12" vinyl LP serves as a compilation, showcasing the Stones' artistic progression within the given time frame. With a blend of timeless classics, it reflects the band's influential contributions to the music scene, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of that era.
ROLLING STONES - Self-Titled (1982, DDR/East Germany) 12" LP
London 820 047 , 1984 , Holland
"The Rolling Stones" is the debut album by The Rolling Stones, originallly released in the UK in April 1964. This is the 1984 re-issue and can be easily recognized by the barcode in the upper right corner of the album back cover and the (c) Copyright printed on the record's label,
ROLLING STONES - Self-Titled (1984, Holland) 12" LP
Decca S 17 005 (ML+) , 1973 , Germany
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ROLLING STONES - Self-titled (1973, Switzerland) 12" Vinyl LP
Decca TAB 30 / KZAL ARL 17148 , 1981 , Holland
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CBS 465752 , 1989 , Holland
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Steel Wheels (1989 Holland) 12" Vinyl LP
"Sticky Fingers," the iconic album by the Rolling Stones, achieved global renown not only for its timeless music but also for the distinctive front cover designed by the legendary artist Andy Warhol. A collector's delight, this album holds a unique allure for vinyl enthusiasts
Sticky Fingers with real ZIPP Zipper (1971, Germany) Sticky Fingers Real working zipper (1971, Germany) Sticky Fingers with Rounded PAN Zipper (1971, Netherlands) Sticky Fingers CBS NL (Netherlands) Sticky Fingers (United Kingdom)
Rolling Stones' zenith: A 1981 live album, encapsulated in a 12" Vinyl LP, is a sonic time capsule, showcasing the band's prowess and contributing profoundly to music history. A must-have for enthusiasts, reliving the magic of that era.
European Release of "Still Life American Concert 1981" German Release of "Still Life American Concert 1981"
Decca SD 3024 / ZAL 10 432 , 1971 , Germany
"Stone Age/Got Live If You Want It!" is a unique Rolling Stones release, combining their 1971 studio album "Stone Age" with the live EP "Got Live If You Want It!" from 1966. "Stone Age" features a mix of bluesy rock and psychedelic experimentation, while the live EP captures the band's raw energy
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In 1981, The Rolling Stones unveiled "Tattoo You," a 12" Vinyl LP Album that proved to be a remarkable compilation of previously unreleased gems from their 1970s recordings. With its release, the band skillfully curated a timeless collection, showcasing their musical prowess
The European Release of Tattoo You The French Release of Tattoo You The USA Release of Tattoo You
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"Time Waits for No One" is a Rolling Stones compilation released in 1979, offering a taste of their music from 1971 to 1977. It features a mix of well-known hits like "Angie" and "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll," along with deeper cuts, providing a glimpse into the band's evolution during that period.
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Released in 1983, "Undercover" showcases the Rolling Stones' edgier side. This album features a mix of hard-hitting rock, reggae influences, and experimental textures. Tracks like "Undercover of the Night" and "Too Much Blood" explore darker themes with a raw, contemporary sound.
French Release of Undercover USA Release of Undercover
A Collection of 7" Singles and 12" Maxi Records by the Rolling Stones
ROLLING STONES - 7" Singles & 12" Maxi-Singles
This collection features three unofficial Rolling Stones recordings from the 60s and 70s. Each disc is identified by the initials "R.S." on the cover, but in different colors.
ROLLING STONES - Live on Unofficial Vinyl Records
A hodgepodge of Rolling Stones vinyl records from different categories
ROLLING STONES - Assorted Picture Discs, LP's