What is there to say about Keef that hasn’t been said? Keith Richards was born today in England in 1943 and he’s arguably the coolest rockstar ever. His life has been thoroughly documented since Richards and the Rolling Stones started their conquest of the world in 1963. He has released over 30 studio albums, performed thousands of shows, earned millions of fans and ingested tons of drugs.
None of that seems to matter to Richards. He is a musician to the bone, a student, disciple and master of the blues that became one of the most important rock guitarists in history. Virtually every rock band you’ve heard since 1970 has been in some way influenced by Keith and the Stones. His influence is now and forever will be inescapable in rock and roll.
“Jumpin’ Jack Flash” single 1968, live in Texas 1972:
“Stray Cat Blues” off the album “Beggars Banquet” 1968:
“You Got the Silver” (Keith vocals) off the album “Let It Bleed” 1969:
“Monkey Man” off the album “Let It Bleed” 1969:
“Can’t You Hear Me Knockin’” off the album “Sticky Fingers” 1971:
“Rip This Joint” off the album “Exile on Main St.” 1972, live in Texas 1972:
25 Keith Richards riffs in one take: