How Old Is Keith Richards
Keith Richards is a name that has become synonymous with rock and roll. As one of the founding members of The Rolling Stones, he has helped shape the course of music history through his innovative guitar playing and songwriting. But just how old is Keith Richards? This question has been asked by fans and critics alike for decades, as the musician seems to defy age with his timeless style and energy on stage. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Keith Richards, from his early beginnings in music to his current status as a living legend.
Keith Richards’ Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Keith Richards was born on December 18, 1943, in Dartford, Kent, England. He grew up in a musical family; his grandfather was a jazz musician and his mother sang in a choir. Richards’ interest in music began at an early age, and he started playing guitar when he was just 15 years old.
In the early 1960s, Richards formed a band called Little Boy Blue and the Blue Boys with his childhood friend Mick Jagger. The two would later go on to form one of the most iconic rock bands of all time: The Rolling Stones. Richards’ bluesy guitar style and songwriting skills were instrumental in shaping the sound of the band. His love for American blues music also influenced their early material.
Richards’ musical career has spanned over five decades, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His innovative playing style has inspired countless musicians around the world. In the next section, we will explore Keith Richards’ time with The Rolling Stones and how they became one of the most successful bands in history.
Keith Richards’ Time with The Rolling Stones
Keith Richards’ Time with The Rolling Stones
One cannot talk about Keith Richards without mentioning his time with The Rolling Stones. Richards co-founded the band in 1962 alongside Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, Ian Stewart, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts. The band’s early sound was heavily influenced by blues and rock and roll music, which helped them gain popularity in the UK and eventually worldwide.
Richards played a crucial role in shaping the band’s sound and image. He is known for his distinctive guitar riffs and rebellious persona on stage. Some of the band’s most iconic songs were written by Richards, including “Satisfaction,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” and “Brown Sugar.” Despite several lineup changes over the years, Richards remained a constant member of The Rolling Stones throughout their career.
The band’s legacy is undeniable, having sold over 250 million records worldwide and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. Keith Richards’ contributions to The Rolling Stones have undoubtedly played a significant role in their success and cemented his place as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Keith Richards’ Solo Career and Other Endeavors
After decades of playing with The Rolling Stones, Keith Richards embarked on a solo career in the late 1980s. His first solo album, “Talk is Cheap,” was released in 1988 and received critical acclaim. The album showcased Richards’ songwriting abilities and his unique guitar style, which had become synonymous with The Rolling Stones’ sound.
In addition to his solo work, Richards has collaborated with various artists over the years. He has worked with musicians such as Tom Waits, Eric Clapton, and John Lee Hooker to name a few. Richards also formed a side project called X-Pensive Winos in the early 1990s and released two albums under that name.
Aside from music, Richards has also dabbled in acting. He appeared in films such as “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.” Additionally, he wrote an autobiography titled “Life” which was released in 2010.
Keith Richards’ solo career and other endeavors have allowed him to showcase his talents beyond The Rolling Stones. His collaborations with other artists have resulted in some memorable musical moments while his acting roles have given fans a chance to see him in a different light.
Keith Richards’ Health and Personal Life
Keith Richards has had a well-documented history of substance abuse, which has taken a toll on his health over the years. He has been open about his struggles with addiction and has even referred to himself as “a professional drug taker.” Despite this, he has managed to maintain a successful career in music and continues to perform at the age of 77.
In recent years, Richards has made an effort to clean up his act and take better care of his health. He quit smoking in 2010 after decades of heavy smoking, which was a significant step towards improving his overall well-being. He also underwent brain surgery in 2006 after suffering a fall while on vacation, but he made a full recovery and was back on stage within months.
In terms of his personal life, Richards has been with his partner Patti Hansen for over 35 years, and they have two children together. He is also known for his love of animals and is an advocate for animal rights. Despite his wild reputation, Keith Richards is still going strong and remains an icon in the world of rock and roll.
Keith Richards’ Legacy
Keith Richards’ legacy is one that will undoubtedly live on for generations to come. As a founding member of The Rolling Stones, he helped shape the sound of rock and roll in the 1960s and beyond. His unique guitar playing style, which blends blues, country, and rock influences, has inspired countless musicians over the years.
In addition to his contributions to music, Keith Richards is also known for his rebellious spirit and larger-than-life persona. He has been a cultural icon for decades, with his trademark bandanas, sunglasses, and cigarette dangling from his lips becoming instantly recognizable symbols of rock and roll cool.
Despite his wild reputation, Keith Richards has also shown himself to be a dedicated musician and artist throughout his career. He continues to tour and record with The Rolling Stones to this day, proving that age is just a number when it comes to making great music. His influence on popular culture cannot be overstated, making him a true legend in the world of rock music.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Keith Richards is a legendary musician who has left an indelible mark on the world of rock and roll. His contributions to The Rolling Stones and his solo career have cemented his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Despite his wild lifestyle and brushes with death, Richards continues to perform and create music well into his seventies. He has inspired countless musicians and will undoubtedly be remembered as a true icon in the history of rock music. As fans eagerly await new projects from Richards, it is clear that his legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.
