Keith Richards

Occupation:
Musician
Date of Birth:
18 December 1943
Sex:
Male
Height:
1.74

Introduction:

Keith Richards (born December 18, 1943) is an English musician, songwriter, and actor best known as the co-founder, guitarist, and key songwriter of The Rolling Stones. His partnership with Mick Jagger has produced some of the most iconic songs in rock history. Renowned for his distinctive guitar riffs and enduring influence on rock music, Richards is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time.

Early Life and Background:

Keith Richards was born in Dartford, Kent, to Bertrand Richards, a factory worker, and Doris Dupree Richards. His parents divorced during his childhood, leading to a strained relationship with his father. Richards developed a passion for music at a young age, influenced by records from Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, and Chuck Berry. His mother bought him his first guitar, sparking a lifelong dedication to music.

Richards attended Wentworth Primary School, where he became friends with Mick Jagger. The two reconnected years later over shared musical interests. After being expelled from Dartford Technical High School for truancy, Richards attended Sidcup Art College but dropped out to focus on his burgeoning music career. During this time, he joined Mick Jagger’s band, Little Boy Blue and the Blue Boys, alongside Dick Taylor. This group eventually evolved into The Rolling Stones with the addition of Brian Jones, Ian Stewart, and Charlie Watts.

Music Career:

Richards co-founded The Rolling Stones in 1962, and the band quickly signed with Decca Records in 1963. Drawing inspiration from blues legends like Chuck Berry, Jimmy Reed, and Muddy Waters, Richards developed a signature style characterized by open tunings and innovative riffing. His songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger produced their first international hit, "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," in 1965—a riff Richards famously conceived in his sleep.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Richards expanded his musical horizons, producing and co-producing records for artists such as Aretha Franklin, Ronnie Spector, and Johnnie Johnson. He launched his solo career with the gold-certified album Talk Is Cheap (1988), supported by his backing band, the X-Pensive Winos. Other solo projects include the singles "Run Rudolph Run" and collaborations with artists like Tom Waits and Max Romeo.

Richards also contributed to film soundtracks and appeared in the Rolling Stones' Rock and Roll Circus TV special. His acting credits include portraying Captain Teague, father of Captain Jack Sparrow, in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007) and On Stranger Tides (2011).

Personal Life:

Keith Richards’ personal life has often been as high-profile as his music. Known for his wild lifestyle, he faced multiple legal issues related to drug possession, beginning with a 1967 arrest during a police raid on his home. Despite these challenges, Richards overcame his substance abuse issues in the late 1970s and has since spoken openly about his journey.

Richards married model Patti Hansen in 1983, and the couple has two daughters, Theodora and Alexandra. He also had three children with former partner Anita Pallenberg: Marlon, Angela, and Tara (who tragically passed away in infancy). Richards is known for his love of books and has expressed interest in becoming a librarian, a testament to his lifelong curiosity.

In 2006, Richards sustained a head injury after falling from a tree in Fiji, requiring cranial surgery. He recovered fully and resumed touring with The Rolling Stones.

Legacy and Influence:

Keith Richards’ contributions to music have cemented his status as one of rock’s most influential figures. His guitar work, songwriting, and stage presence have inspired generations of musicians. Rolling Stone magazine consistently ranks him among the greatest guitarists of all time. The Rolling Stones' extensive catalog, much of it co-written by Richards, remains a cornerstone of rock music.

Beyond music, Richards’ cultural impact extends to fashion, film, and literature. His autobiography, Life (2010), received critical acclaim for its candid storytelling and insight into his storied career.

Recent Activities:

Richards continues to perform with The Rolling Stones, who remain active and celebrated worldwide. In 2023, the band released a new studio album, Hackney Diamonds, marking a milestone in their six-decade career. Richards also maintains his solo pursuits, occasionally reuniting with the X-Pensive Winos for special performances.

Richards’ enduring passion for music and commitment to his craft ensure his legacy as a living legend in the world of rock and roll.