Keith Richards (born 18 December 1943) is an English guitarist, singer and songwriter best known as a founding member of the rock band the Rolling Stones. Over six decades he has been a central creative partner in the group's work and, with Mick Jagger, is credited for many of the band's most enduring songs. His career blends a prominent role as a rhythm guitarist with occasional lead playing, singing and songwriting.
Musical style and technique
Richards is particularly associated with a strong rhythmic approach to the guitar: pungent, riff‑based playing that often functions as both harmony and counterpoint to the vocal line. He commonly uses open tunings — most famously open G — and frequently removes the low string from a six‑string guitar, creating a five‑string setup that helps produce his characteristic resonance and chord voicings. These choices, along with loose, groove‑oriented phrasing, have made his riffs instantly recognizable.
Career and collaborations
Richards helped form the Rolling Stones in the early 1960s and, together with Mick Jagger, developed a prolific songwriting partnership known publicly as Jagger–Richards. In addition to his work with the Stones, he has recorded as a solo artist and collaborated with other musicians across rock, blues and country styles. He has also contributed occasional bass parts and other instruments on recordings when needed.
Instruments, recordings and roles
- Primary roles: rhythm guitar, backing vocals, occasional lead vocals on select tracks.
- Tuning and technique: frequent use of open G tuning and five‑string Telecaster setups.
- Occasional duties: bass parts on some studio recordings and multi‑instrument contributions.
Examples of songs where he takes a lead vocal or distinctive role include tracks credited to him within the Stones' catalog. He appears as a vocalist and instrumentalist in studio and live contexts and has also released solo work, beginning with albums issued in the late 1980s.
Legacy and notable facts
Richards is regarded as one of rock music's most influential guitarists. His riff writing and phrasing have shaped the sound of blues‑based rock and inspired generations of players. He and the Rolling Stones were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his public persona — a mix of hard‑living reputation and musical seriousness — has contributed to his cultural prominence. For more on his life and career, see a general biography, the band's page at the Rolling Stones, notes on his technique at guitar technique resources, and references to his instrumental contributions such as occasional bass work at recording credits.