Rock Out with Ease: Master the Paint It Black Chords!
Are you a guitar enthusiast looking to learn one of the greatest rock songs of all time? Look no further than Paint It Black by The Rolling Stones. This timeless classic features a distinctive guitar riff that will have you jamming out in no time. In this guide, we’ll break down the chords and techniques needed to master this iconic song.

First, let’s take a look at the chords used in Paint It Black. The song is primarily in the key of E minor, with the following chords:
E minor
G major
A major
D major

The song begins with a simple but effective riff played on the low E string. To play this riff, place your index finger on the second fret of the E string and play the string twice. Next, place your ring finger on the fourth fret of the same string and play it twice. Finally, play the open A string. Repeat this riff several times before moving on to the chords.
The verse of Paint It Black features a simple chord progression that repeats several times. Start with an E minor chord for one measure, followed by a G major chord for one measure. Next, play an A major chord for two measures, followed by another G major chord for one measure. Finally, play a D major chord for one measure, followed by an A major chord for one measure.
The chorus of the song is just as simple, with the same chords used in a slightly different order. Begin with an E minor chord for one measure, followed by a G major chord for one measure. Next, play a D major chord for two measures, followed by an A major chord for one measure.
Once you have the basic chords down, it’s time to add some style and flair to your playing. One of the most important techniques used in Paint It Black is palm muting. This technique involves lightly resting your picking hand on the strings near the bridge, creating a muted sound. Experiment with palm muting during the riff and chord progressions to add a percussive element to your playing.
Another important technique used in the song is alternate picking. This involves using your picking hand to alternate between upstrokes and downstrokes. Practice this technique during the riff and chord progressions to improve your timing and accuracy.
Finally, don’t forget about the importance of dynamics. Paint It Black features several quiet and loud sections, so be sure to vary your playing to match the mood of the song. Experiment with strumming harder or softer during different sections to add depth and dimension to your playing.
In conclusion, Paint It Black is a classic rock song that every guitar enthusiast should learn. By mastering the chords and techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to playing this iconic tune with ease. So grab your guitar and get ready to rock out like never before!
A Guitarist’s Dream: Unlocking the Secrets of Paint It Black
For guitar enthusiasts, mastering the chords of iconic songs is like unlocking a secret code. One such song is Paint It Black by The Rolling Stones. The song features a unique blend of Indian-inspired riffs and Western rock and roll. It’s an excellent piece for guitarists to learn as it combines both rhythm and lead guitar parts.
The basic chords of Paint It Black are relatively simple, with the majority of the song being played in Em and G major chords. However, it’s the lead guitar part that sets the song apart and gives it its signature sound. The lead guitar part features an intricate riff that plays throughout the song and is the backbone of its melody.
To master Paint It Black, guitarists need to focus on nailing the lead guitar riff. The riff is played in the pentatonic scale and is full of bends, slides, and vibratos. It’s a challenging riff to get right, but it’s well worth the effort once you’ve got it down.
To play the lead guitar riff, start with the 12th fret on the low E string. Play the note and then bend it up a whole step. Then, play the note again and release the bend. Next, slide down to the 10th fret and play that note. Then, slide back up to the 12th fret and play it again. Finally, play the 10th fret on the A string and slide down to the 8th fret.
Once you’ve got the basic riff down, it’s time to add some style to it. Use vibrato on the notes to add some flavor and make them sound more expressive. You can also experiment with different fingerings and positions to find what works best for you.
Another important aspect of Paint It Black is the rhythm guitar part. The song has a distinctive groove that’s created by the rhythmic interplay between the lead and rhythm guitar. To play the rhythm guitar part, start with an open E string and then play the G chord. Then, go back to the open E string and play the Em chord. Repeat this pattern throughout the song.
As you play the rhythm guitar part, make sure to accentuate the upstrokes to give the song its signature feel. It’s also essential to play with precision and keep a tight rhythm to ensure the song doesn’t lose its momentum.
Learning to play Paint It Black is a rite of passage for any guitar enthusiast. It’s a song that showcases the best of both rhythm and lead guitar playing and is a masterclass in how to blend different musical styles. By mastering the chords and the lead guitar riff, guitarists can unlock the secrets of this iconic song and add it to their repertoire. So, grab your guitar, and let’s start Painting it black!