“She’s A Rainbow,” released by The Rolling Stones in 1967, is a standout track from their album Their Satanic Majesties Request. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song is a vibrant and whimsical celebration of color and beauty, capturing the psychedelic spirit of the late 1960s.
The lyrics of “She’s A Rainbow” depict a vivid and enchanting image of a woman who brings color and joy into the world. The song opens with the lines, “She comes in colors everywhere / She combs her hair / She’s like a rainbow,” immediately setting a tone of wonder and admiration. The repeated imagery of colors and rainbows throughout the song creates a sense of magic and delight, emphasizing the transformative effect the woman has on the narrator’s life.
Musically, “She’s A Rainbow” is distinguished by its rich and playful arrangement. The song features a prominent piano riff by Nicky Hopkins, which drives the melody and adds a baroque pop feel to the track. The orchestration, arranged by John Paul Jones (who would later join Led Zeppelin), includes strings that enhance the song’s lush and colorful soundscape. The combination of piano, strings, and the band’s performance results in a vibrant and textured composition.
The production of “She’s A Rainbow,” overseen by the band and producer Andrew Loog Oldham, captures the experimental and eclectic essence of the psychedelic era. The use of innovative studio techniques and diverse instrumentation reflects the band’s willingness to explore new musical territories beyond their rock and blues roots.
Upon its release, “She’s A Rainbow” received positive reviews and became a fan favorite, though it did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of The Rolling Stones’ other hits. It reached number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, showcasing the band’s versatility and ability to craft memorable pop tunes alongside their more typical rock offerings.
Over the years, “She’s A Rainbow” has gained recognition as a classic and is often celebrated for its whimsical charm and melodic appeal. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its unique place in The Rolling Stones’ discography and its ability to capture the imagination of listeners.
In “She’s A Rainbow,” The Rolling Stones deliver a track that is both musically inventive and lyrically enchanting. The song’s joyful celebration of color and beauty, combined with its rich orchestration and memorable melody, makes it a standout example of the band’s foray into psychedelic pop. Through their creative exploration and vibrant sound, The Rolling Stones offer a timeless and uplifting musical experience with “She’s A Rainbow,” a song that continues to delight and inspire audiences
