| Keith Richards (born 18 December 1943 in Dartford, Kent) is an English guitarist, songwriter, singer, and founding member of British musical group The Rolling Stones. He has penned with bandmate Mick Jagger many number 1 hits from 1965 to the early 80s. Though he plays many lead guitar parts, he is celebrated for his innovative rhythm guitar.
Richards' musical career has been characterized by a reliance on collaboration and his long association with the Rolling Stones. In addition to his relatively few solo releases, Richards has appeared as a guest on recordings of other artists.
Richards' backing vocals appear on every Rolling Stones album. From 1969's "Let It Bleed", Stone's releases often contained a Richards lead vocal, and since 1978's "Some Girls" each release has had a Richards lead vocal. He has also contributed occasional bass, keyboard, and slide guitar. Richards has always been active in record production for the Stones and for himself, often in tandem with Mick Jagger and outside producers.
To the general public, Richards is perhaps better known for his drug-related outlaw image than for his songwriting contributions. |
Keith Richards of Rolling Stones turns 63 today. When interviewed, Richards said he does not feel his age. He said he stopped counting 80 years ago.
