Instrument heard on the Rolling Stones’ “Paint It Black”

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Stumped by This Crossword Clue? Let’s Crack It!

Hey crossword fanatics! Another week, another brain-bending puzzle. And this time, I’m tackling a particularly intriguing clue that has me scratching my head (and maybe even humming a certain Rolling Stones classic). The clue is short, sweet, and deceptively simple:

Instrument heard on the Rolling Stones’ “Paint It Black.”

Now, this isn’t your typical “capital of France” or “type of dog” clue. This one requires a little musical knowledge, a dash of Stones trivia, and a healthy dose of deduction. It’s the kind of clue that makes you feel supremely clever once you solve it, but incredibly frustrated while you’re wrestling with it.

So, let’s dissect this clue. We know the song, a cornerstone of rock history. We know the band, arguably the greatest rock and roll band of all time. But identifying the specific
instrument
takes a bit more digging. What’s the standout instrument in “Paint It Black”? Is it the driving rhythm guitar? The iconic bassline? The powerful drums? Or is there something subtler, something more evocative, hidden within the song’s rich texture?

To solve this, consider the song’s melancholic atmosphere. What instrument often lends itself to creating that feeling of sorrow and loss? Consider the unique timbre and sound that sets “Paint It Black” apart from other Rolling Stones tracks. What’s unusual about its instrumentation? What might a composer choose to use to evoke a specific mood or feeling?

Think about the era the song was released in. What instruments were popular at that time? Were there any instruments gaining traction that might have been used in a unique way to create a groundbreaking sound?

This isn’t just about remembering a fact; it’s about understanding the musical context. It’s about listening to the song with a critical ear, analyzing its composition, and piecing together the clues hidden within the melody, harmony, and rhythm.

So, put on your thinking cap, fire up “Paint It Black,” and let’s crack this crossword clue together. I’ll be back later with the answer, but in the meantime, let me know your thoughts in the comments below! Happy puzzling!

Instrument heard on the Rolling Stones’ “Paint It Black”

Available Answers:

SITAR.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 8 Dec 24, Sunday