Keith Richards
Known for his timeless riffs, bad-boy image, and somehow being immortal, Keith Richards is much more than just the guitarist of The Rolling Stones.
It’s time to unravel the enigma that is Keith Richards!
Table of Contents
Early Life
Born on December 18, 1943, in Dartford, Kent, young Keith wasn’t initially the poster child for rock rebellion. He was a choirboy, believe it or not! But by his teenage years, Richards was deeply immersed in the blues.
A chance meeting with Mick Jagger at the Dartford train station in 1961, would eventually lead to the creation of one of the most iconic rock bands in history.
The Rolling Stones
Richards and Jagger, along with Brian Jones, Charlie Watts, and Bill Wyman, formed The Rolling Stones.
While the band was influenced by blues, it was Keith’s innovative guitar playing that truly defined their sound. Those open tunings and signature riffs on tracks like “Start Me Up” and “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking?”
The Glimmer Twins
Richards and Jagger, often referred to as the “Glimmer Twins,” have shared a partnership that’s both fruitful and fraught with tension. From childhood friends to leading one of the most successful rock bands in history, their journey is nothing short of epic.
Their bond has survived public feuds, competing solo careers, and all the challenges of rock ‘n’ roll fame. Songs like “Beast of Burden” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” are testaments to their combined genius.
Together with Mick Jagger, Richards penned some of the most memorable rock songs ever: tracks like “Angie,” “Wild Horses,” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.”
It’s hard to imagine one without the other.
Not Just The Stones
While most famous for his work with The Rolling Stones, Richards has ventured outside the band too. His solo work, particularly albums like “Talk Is Cheap” and “Main Offender,” showcase his versatility.
Over the years, Richards has collaborated with a wide array of artists across genres.
From his work with the X-Pensive Winos in his solo ventures to teaming up with legends like Norah Jones. He’s played alongside legends like Aretha Franklin, Tom Waits, and Johnnie Johnson, Eric Clapton, Peter Tosh, and more, adding his distinctive touch to every project.
That Signature Sound
Many guitarists strive for a unique sound, and Keith sure found his. Often opting for a five-string setup (removing the low E string) and favoring open G tuning, he crafted riffs that were both raw and intricate.
Keith’s approach to the guitar is quite distinct. While many guitarists rely heavily on the pick, Keith often uses his fingers, delivering a mix of rhythm and lead simultaneously.
This fingerpicking method, combined with his unique tunings, contributes to the gritty, rhythm-heavy sound that distinguishes many Stones classics.
Influences
Keith has always worn his influences on his sleeve. The likes of Chuck Berry, Muddy Waters, and Scotty Moore shaped his early guitar style.
The Stones even named themselves after Muddy Waters’ track “Rollin’ Stone.”
Keith’s deep respect for the blues is evident in the Stones’ covers of classics and his approach to songwriting and guitar playing.
Off The Stage
From his tumultuous relationship with Anita Pallenberg to the legendary drug escapades, Keith’s life off the stage is as talked about as his music.
Keith Richards has faced his fair share of challenges, from substance abuse battles to near-fatal accidents. However, his resilience and passion for music have always seen him through. His autobiography, “Life,” delves into these personal struggles, providing an intimate look at the man behind the legend.
Despite the controversies, he’s also known for his wisdom, often doling out unforgettable one-liners in interviews.
Legacy
While Keith will forever be known as the indomitable guitarist of The Rolling Stones, his legacy is multi-faceted. He’s a songwriter, a pioneer of rock guitar techniques, and, above all, a true music enthusiast. His contributions to rock ‘n’ roll are immeasurable, influencing countless musicians across generations.
