The Rolling Stones’ Secret Influences From Indian Classical Music

April 2, 2025

In the summer of 1967, a peculiar wave began to wash over the world of rock music. The Rolling Stones, a band known for their gritty sound and rebellious spirit, found themselves captivated by something unexpected: Indian classical music. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Brian Jones were drawn to the mystical sounds of sitars and tablas. It was a time when the world was expanding, and the Stones were eager to explore new frontiers in their art. Their curiosity led them on an unforgettable journey that would change their music forever.

The turning point came when Brian Jones stumbled upon a sitar in a shop in London. It was unlike anything he had ever seen or heard before. The delicate, intricate melodies were enchanting, and he felt an instant connection to the instrument. Eager to incorporate this exotic sound into their music, the Stones decided to experiment with it on their new album. The result was the groundbreaking song “Paint It Black,” where the sitar created a haunting atmosphere that spoke to the heart of the listener. The blend of rock and Indian music was revolutionary, and fans were thrilled by this fresh sound.

However, not everyone embraced this fusion. Some critics were skeptical, suggesting that the Rolling Stones were simply trying to tap into a trend. But Mick and the band had a deeper motivation. They were striving to connect with something beyond themselves—to find a spiritual depth in their music. As they delved deeper into Indian culture and philosophy, they discovered ideas about love, loss, and enlightenment that resonated with their own struggles and triumphs. This exploration became a source of inspiration, allowing them to channel their emotions into their songs in a whole new way.

The Stones’ dedication to their craft and their willingness to embrace influences from different cultures helped them transcend the barriers of genre. With each new song, they evolved, and their music took on a richer, more complex texture. Tracks like “Street Fighting Man” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” began to reflect this newfound depth, drawing on both their rock roots and the intricate rhythms of Indian music. They were no longer just a rock band; they were artists pushing the boundaries of what music could be.

The journey into Indian classical music didn’t just change their sound—it transformed their lives. It taught them the importance of resilience and openness, which they carried with them through the ups and downs of their careers. Sometimes, they faced personal struggles, pressures of fame, or creative blocks, but they found solace in the lessons they learned from music. The fusion of cultures taught them that creativity knows no limits and that there is beauty in diversity.

As the years went on, The Rolling Stones became icons, not just for their rock anthems, but for their ability to continually reinvent themselves. They remain a testament to the power of curiosity and the magic that happens when one dares to explore the unknown. Their secret influences from Indian classical music remind us that, just like a sitar’s unique sound, each of us can blend our experiences and passions into a beautiful, harmonious expression of who we are. In this way, The Rolling Stones became more than just a band—they became a symbol of resilience, openness, and the extraordinary power of music to connect us all.