# Rolling Stones' 1966 Album Aftermath

> The Rolling Stones' 1966 album Aftermath showcased Mick Jagger and Keith Richards' songwriting prowess.
- Title: Rolling Stones' 1966 Album Aftermath · American Songwriter
- Summary: The Rolling Stones' 1966 album Aftermath showcased Mick Jagger and Keith Richards' songwriting prowess.
- Keywords: rolling stones, mick jagger, keith richards, 1966, aftermath, songwriting, pop music, rock music, music, culture, Rolling, Stones'
- Source: American Songwriter — https://americansongwriter.com/remembering-when-the-rolling-stones-put-songwriting-at-the-forefront-of-a-surprising-album-in-1966
- Author: Jim Beviglia
- Published: 2026-10-04T10:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: rolling stones, mick jagger, keith richards, 1966, aftermath, songwriting, pop music, rock music, music, culture
## Aftermath's Historical Context
The Rolling Stones' 1966 album Aftermath was their first major release of original songs after relying on covers for their first three albums.
## Jagger and Richards' Songwriting
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards wrote all 14 tracks on the UK version of Aftermath, including the hit 'Paint It Black'.
## Brian Jones' Contributions
Brian Jones added sitar, vibraphone, and harmonica to transform hits like 'Paint It Black' and 'Under My Thumb'.
## Songwriting Themes
Jagger and Richards wrote about their romantic relationships, with some songs criticized for demeaning women.
## Album's Impact
Aftermath's success led to the Stones pursuing a baroque, psychedelic path, eventually resulting in Their Satanic Majesties Request.
## Long-Term Significance
The album provided confidence to Jagger and Richards as songwriters, influencing the band's future hard-rock direction.
## Key takeaway

The Rolling Stones' 1966 album Aftermath featured Jagger and Richards' original songs, marking a shift in their creative output.