Keith Richards
Keith Richards: A Rock 'n' Roll Icon
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Keith Richards
Common Aliases: Keef, The Human Riff
Birth and Death Dates
Birth Date: December 18, 1943
Death Date: N/A
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: British
Profession(s): Musician, Songwriter, Record Producer, Actor
Early Life and Background
Keith Richards was born on December 18, 1943, in Dartford, Kent, England. He was the only child of Doris Maud Lydia and Herbert William Richards. His father was a factory worker who was wounded in World War II, and his mother was a homemaker. Keith's early life was marked by a deep love for music, a passion he inherited from his maternal grandfather, Augustus Theodore "Gus" Dupree, a jazz musician who introduced him to the guitar.
Richards attended Wentworth Primary School, where he first met Mick Jagger, a friendship that would later become one of the most iconic partnerships in rock history. The two lost touch when they went to different schools, but fate brought them back together in 1961 at a train station, where they rekindled their friendship over a shared love of blues music. This meeting set the stage for the formation of The Rolling Stones.
Major Accomplishments
Keith Richards is best known as the co-founder, guitarist, and secondary vocalist of The Rolling Stones, one of the most successful and enduring rock bands in history. Alongside Mick Jagger, he formed one of the most prolific songwriting partnerships in rock music, often referred to as "The Glimmer Twins." Richards' guitar work and songwriting have been instrumental in shaping the sound of The Rolling Stones, contributing to their status as rock legends.
Richards' accomplishments with The Rolling Stones include numerous chart-topping albums and singles, such as "Satisfaction," "Jumpin' Jack Flash," and "Paint It Black." The band has sold over 240 million records worldwide and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Richards' influence extends beyond his work with the Stones; he has also released solo albums, including "Talk Is Cheap" and "Main Offender," showcasing his versatility as a musician.
Notable Works or Actions
Keith Richards' contributions to music are vast, with his distinctive guitar riffs and songwriting prowess being central to The Rolling Stones' success. His work on albums like "Exile on Main St.," "Let It Bleed," and "Sticky Fingers" has been critically acclaimed and remains influential in the rock genre. Richards is also known for his innovative use of open tunings, which has become a signature element of his guitar style.
Beyond music, Richards has dabbled in acting, most notably portraying Captain Teague, the father of Johnny Depp's character, Jack Sparrow, in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" film series. His charismatic presence and larger-than-life persona have made him a cultural icon, transcending the world of music.
Impact and Legacy
Keith Richards' impact on music and popular culture is immeasurable. As a founding member of The Rolling Stones, he helped define the sound and attitude of rock 'n' roll. His guitar playing, characterized by its raw energy and innovative techniques, has inspired countless musicians across generations. Richards' songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger has produced some of the most enduring songs in rock history, cementing their place in the pantheon of great musical duos.
Richards' legacy extends beyond his musical contributions. His rebellious spirit and unapologetic lifestyle have made him a symbol of rock 'n' roll's defiant ethos. Despite numerous challenges, including battles with substance abuse, Richards has remained a resilient and influential figure in the music industry.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Keith Richards is widely quoted and remembered for his wit, wisdom, and candid reflections on life and music. His quotes often capture the essence of rock 'n' roll, offering insights into the creative process and the realities of life as a musician. Richards' ability to articulate the highs and lows of his career with humor and honesty has endeared him to fans and fellow musicians alike.
Richards' enduring appeal lies in his authenticity and his unwavering commitment to his craft. He embodies the spirit of rock 'n' roll, and his words resonate with those who admire his dedication to music and his unyielding pursuit of artistic expression. Whether discussing the intricacies of guitar playing or reflecting on the nature of fame, Keith Richards' quotes continue to inspire and entertain, ensuring his place as a beloved and iconic figure in the world of music.
Quotes by Keith Richards
Keith Richards's insights on:
Good music comes out of people playing together, knowing what they want to do and going for it. You have to sweat over it and bug it to death. You can’t do it by pushing buttons and watching a TV screen.
The only new technology that interests me is when it sort of throws me back soundwise. And I can think, “Wow, that means I can go onstage and sound like Scotty Moore now and again!”
I’ve always been suspicious of TV, I’ve always found music and video to be an unhappy marriage.
The electric guitar was vital in helping what I’ve achieved where would I be without it? Playing awfully quietly, for a start.
I occasionally borrow pot from my kids. They do a little weed occasionally. ‘Here, Dad’ – or more likely, ‘Dad, have you got any?’
Image is like a long shadow. Even when the sun goes down, you can see it. I think some of it is that there is so much pressure to be that person that you become it, maybe, to a certain point you can bear. It’s impossible not to end up being a parody of what you thought you were.
Treat each guitar track-and each song-completely different. For example, if I’m using a certain amp and guitar on one track, I’ll deliberately use something else for the next tune or overdub.
The idea of retiring is like killing yourself. It’s almost like Hari Kari. I intend to live to a 100 and go down in history.
Yes, I’ve been trepanned. That’s quite an interesting experience, especially for my brain surgeon, who saw my thoughts flying around in my brain.