Painting is a visual art form that has inspired musicians to create melodies and lyrics that capture its essence. From the creative process to the emotions evoked by a masterpiece, these songs explore different aspects of painting. Here are 12 songs that bring the world of painting to life through music.
12 Songs About Painting That Inspire Creativity and Expression
1. “Paint It Black” – The Rolling Stones
This iconic song by The Rolling Stones uses the imagery of painting to convey a sense of darkness and mourning. The lyrics, “I see a red door and I want it painted black. No colors anymore, I want them to turn black. I see the girls walk by dressed in their summer clothes. I have to turn my head until my darkness goes” suggest a desire to transform the world around the singer into a monochromatic, somber state. The driving rock rhythm and the haunting melody mirror the intensity of the emotions associated with this metaphorical “painting.” It shows how painting can be used as a symbol of changing one’s perception of the world.
2. “Kandinsky (A Love Before Time)” – Owl City
Named after the famous abstract painter Wassily Kandinsky, this song by Owl City creates a dreamy and imaginative atmosphere. The lyrics, “I remember the silhouette of a midnight conversation. We were lost in the passion of a painted constellation. A love before time, like a storybook rhyme. We’re lost in a moment, a perfect design” draw a parallel between the beauty of Kandinsky’s art and the magic of a romantic relationship. The electronic – pop melody, with its twinkling synths and light – hearted tempo, evokes the sense of wonder and creativity often associated with abstract art.
3. “Picasso’s Last Words (Drink to Me)” – The Rolling Stones
This song references the great painter Pablo Picasso. The lyrics, “I’m only sleeping in the middle of the day. Only time will tell if I get there anyway. I know a little place where we can get together. A little place where we can talk it over. Drink to me, drink to my health, you know I can’t drink anymore” seem to create a mood of reflection, perhaps inspired by Picasso’s complex and influential life. The blues – rock melody adds to the sense of a laid – back yet profound exploration, much like the depth one can find in Picasso’s works.
4. “Art School Girl” – Courtney Barnett
Courtney Barnett’s “Art School Girl” gives a glimpse into the life of an art – loving individual. The lyrics, “She got a nose ring and a brand – new tattoo. She’s been saving up her money for a year or two. She’s going to art school, she’s going to make it through. She’s got a head full of ideas and a heart full of you” capture the enthusiasm and dedication of someone pursuing painting or other visual arts. The indie – rock melody, with its slightly rough – edged charm, mirrors the free – spirited nature often associated with art students.
5. “The Painter” – Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens’ song “The Painter” is a more introspective take on the art of painting. The lyrics, “The painter takes his place. With a brush upon his face. He’s got a love for life, and he can’t be replaced. He’s got a secret to tell. He’s got a story to sell. He’s got a painting to make, and he can’t be afraid” seem to explore the artist’s inner world. The gentle, folk – inspired melody creates an atmosphere of contemplation, highlighting the solitary and creative nature of the painting process.
6. “Jackson Pollock” – Matthew Sweet
This song is directly inspired by the famous abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock. The lyrics might not explicitly describe Pollock’s work but rather use his name to evoke a sense of the wild, free – flowing creativity associated with his drip – painting technique. The power – pop melody, with its energetic guitars and driving rhythm, can be seen as a musical equivalent to Pollock’s energetic and spontaneous approach to painting.
7. “The Starry Night” – Don McLean
While most known for his song “Vincent” about Vincent van Gogh, Don McLean also has “The Starry Night,” which is likely inspired by van Gogh’s famous painting of the same name. The lyrics, “The starry night. You took your life, as lovers often do. But I could have told you, Vincent. This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you” connect the painting to the tragic life of van Gogh. The soft, acoustic – based melody with its melancholic undertone reflects the emotional depth of van Gogh’s art and his life story.
8. “Colors” – Halsey
The song “Colors” can be related to painting in terms of the use of colors to represent emotions. The lyrics, “You’re red, like blood. You’re blue, like my mood. You’re black, like the night. You’re white, like the light” use color symbolism. In painting, colors are often used to evoke feelings, and Halsey does the same in this song. The pop – electronic melody, with its vibrant and changing tones, mirrors the dynamic nature of how colors can affect our perception and emotions.
9. “Paint” – Ciara
Ciara’s “Paint” is a more upbeat and modern take on the idea of self – expression, which is a fundamental aspect of painting. The lyrics, “I’mma paint it how I want it. I’mma do it how I feel. I’mma make it look so flawless. That it’s un – real” are about taking control and expressing oneself freely. The R&B – pop melody, with its energetic beats and Ciara’s confident vocals, encourages a sense of creativity and the freedom to “paint” one’s life in the way one desires.
10. “Art of Love” – Anita Baker
This song can be seen as a metaphorical connection between the art of painting and the art of love. The lyrics, “We can paint a masterpiece. Make it last for eternity. In the art of love, you and I. We can make it to the sky” suggest that just as a painter creates a beautiful work, two people can create a beautiful relationship. The smooth, soul – filled melody and Baker’s rich vocals create a romantic and harmonious atmosphere, much like the harmony in a well – crafted painting.
11. “Sketch” – Zayn
Zayn’s “Sketch” uses the concept of sketching, a fundamental part of the painting process, to describe a relationship. The lyrics, “I’m just tryna sketch you out. See what makes you wanna shout. I’m just tryna figure you out. Gotta be my masterpiece” imply that getting to know someone is like creating a detailed sketch. The R&B – pop melody, with its laid – back yet engaging rhythm, adds to the sense of exploration, similar to the process of sketching to bring out the details of a subject.
12. “Mona Lisa” – Nat King Cole
This classic song by Nat King Cole is an ode to Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, the Mona Lisa. The lyrics, “Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa, men have named you. You’re so like the lady with the mystic smile. Is it only ’cause you’re lonely they have blamed you? For that Mona Lisa strangeness in your smile” are a reflection on the enigma of the painting. Cole’s smooth, crooning vocals and the gentle, big – band inspired melody create an atmosphere of mystery and admiration, much like the allure of the Mona Lisa herself.
Conclusion
These 12 songs offer a diverse exploration of the connection between music and painting. They range from using painting as a symbol of emotions to directly referencing famous painters and their works. Through different musical genres, they show how the art of painting can inspire and be intertwined with the art of music, creating a rich tapestry of creativity.
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