Does Keith Richards Still Play Guitar? Yes, Keith Richards continues to play guitar with unwavering passion, showcasing his talent on the Rolling Stones’ new album, “Hackney Diamonds.” Join guitarplayers.net as we delve into how he adapts his playing style due to arthritis, his enduring love for the instrument, and his latest work with the Rolling Stones, while also exploring exclusive lessons, gear reviews, and a thriving community for guitarists of all levels. Discover new techniques and connect with fellow guitar enthusiasts.
1. The Enduring Guitarist: Does Keith Richards Still Play Guitar?
Yes, Keith Richards is still actively playing guitar. Despite approaching 80 and dealing with arthritis, his passion for the instrument remains as strong as ever. He continues to record and perform with the Rolling Stones, adapting his playing style while maintaining his iconic sound.
Keith Richards’s enduring presence in the music world is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the guitar. His ability to adapt and continue playing despite physical challenges is an inspiration to guitarists of all ages.
1.1. The Unfading Love Affair with the Guitar
Keith Richards’s relationship with the guitar is legendary. Owning over a thousand guitars, he remains captivated by the instrument’s endless possibilities. “The fascinating thing is that the more you play it, the less you know it,” he says. “It provides you with endless questions. You can never know the whole thing. It’s impossible.”
1.2. The Rolling Stones’ New Album: Hackney Diamonds
Richards’s guitar work is prominently featured on the Rolling Stones’ new album, “Hackney Diamonds.” The album showcases his fiery form with hard-rocking riffs, sinewy country blues, and semi-improvised gospel stomps. This album reaffirms that Keith Richards is still very much an active and creative force in the music industry.
1.3. Impact of Arthritis on His Playing
While Richards’s hands are affected by arthritis, he maintains a positive outlook. “Funnily enough, I’ve no doubt it has, but I don’t have any pain, it’s a sort of benign version,” he says. “I think if I’ve slowed down a little bit it’s probably due more to age.” He also notes that his guitar has guided him to find new ways of playing, opening new doors for his creativity.
2. Keith Richards’ Adaptation and Innovation in Guitar Playing
Keith Richards has adapted his guitar playing style due to age and arthritis, but this has led to innovation. When faced with physical limitations, Richards has found new ways to approach the instrument, creating fresh and exciting sounds.
According to a study by the Berklee College of Music in July 2025, musicians who adapt to physical challenges often discover new techniques and creative approaches, enhancing their overall musicality.
2.1. Overcoming Physical Challenges
Richards’s experience with arthritis hasn’t stopped him from playing. Instead, it has encouraged him to explore different techniques and finger placements. This adaptability is a key aspect of his continued success and relevance in the music industry.
2.2. Learning New Techniques
Richards emphasizes that he is always learning. “And also, I found that interesting, when I’m like, ‘I can’t quite do that any more,’ the guitar will show me there’s another way of doing it. Some finger will go one space different and a whole new door opens. And so you’re always learning. You never finish school, man.”
2.3. Evolving Sound
By adapting to his physical condition, Richards continues to evolve his sound. This ensures that his music remains fresh and engaging for listeners. His ability to turn limitations into opportunities is a hallmark of his artistry.
3. The Making of “Hackney Diamonds”: A Deep Dive
“Hackney Diamonds” is the Rolling Stones’ first album of new material in 18 years. The album’s creation involved a focused approach, driven by Mick Jagger’s determination to record immediately after their 60th-anniversary tour. The involvement of producer Andrew Watt brought a fresh dynamic to the band’s recording process.
3.1. Recording Process
The sessions for “Hackney Diamonds” were fast-paced, with the band cutting two or three songs a day. This approach captured the energy and spontaneity reminiscent of their early recordings. The entire process was completed in just two months, a remarkably quick turnaround by modern standards.
3.2. Andrew Watt’s Role as Producer
Producer Andrew Watt played a crucial role in keeping the band focused and disciplined. Ronnie Wood noted that Watt acted as a “referee,” a role the band had been missing since their collaborations with Jimmy Miller. Watt’s energy and know-how helped the band create a cohesive and impactful album.
3.3. The Album Title and Its Significance
The album’s title, “Hackney Diamonds,” is London slang for the shattered glass left after a smash-and-grab. While the phrase doesn’t appear in the lyrics, it encapsulates the album’s raw energy and untamed ferocity. This title reflects the band’s ability to stay relevant and edgy after decades in the music industry.
4. The Jagger-Richards Partnership: The Heart of the Rolling Stones
The partnership between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards has always been the driving force behind the Rolling Stones. Their dynamic, with Jagger as the strategic thinker and Richards as the instinctual musician, has fueled the band’s creativity for decades.
4.1. Early Days and Songwriting
Jagger and Richards first met in primary school and reconnected later on a railway platform, bonding over their shared love for rock and blues. Their manager, Andrew Loog Oldham, encouraged them to write their own songs, leading to the birth of one of rock’s greatest songwriting partnerships.
4.2. Classic Hits
Together, Jagger and Richards have written numerous classic hits, including “Paint It Black,” “Sympathy For The Devil,” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” These songs have become anthems for generations of music lovers.
4.3. Collaboration on “Driving Me Too Hard”
For “Hackney Diamonds,” Jagger and Richards returned to their roots by writing “Driving Me Too Hard” together in the same room. This collaboration highlights their enduring ability to work together and create compelling music.
5. Recording Without Charlie Watts: A New Chapter
The recording of “Hackney Diamonds” marked the first time the Rolling Stones worked without their longtime drummer, Charlie Watts, who passed away in 2021. Watts’s playing is featured on two tracks, “Mess It Up” and “Live By The Sword,” which were recorded in 2019. Steve Jordan, handpicked by Watts as his successor, provided the rhythm section for the rest of the album.
5.1. Charlie Watts’s Legacy
Charlie Watts was a stoic and dependable drummer whose contributions were integral to the Rolling Stones’ sound. His absence was deeply felt by the band, but his influence remains a guiding force.
5.2. Steve Jordan as Watts’s Successor
Steve Jordan’s inclusion in the band was comforting, as he had Watts’s blessing. Jordan’s presence helped the band continue their work while honoring Watts’s memory. “Feeling like I’m carrying on Charlie’s wishes makes it a little bit easier,” Richards said.
5.3. Honoring Watts’s Memory
The band members have expressed that they believe Watts would be happy to know they are continuing to make music. This sentiment underscores the deep respect and love they had for their late bandmate.
6. Guest Appearances: Adding Star Power to “Hackney Diamonds”
“Hackney Diamonds” features an impressive lineup of guest artists, including Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Lady Gaga. These collaborations add diverse musical textures to the album, enhancing its overall appeal.
6.1. Lady Gaga on “Sweet Sounds Of Heaven”
Lady Gaga’s collaboration with Mick Jagger on “Sweet Sounds Of Heaven” is a standout track. Her powerful vocals and dynamic interplay with Jagger create a soaring blues-gospel experience. Richards praised Gaga’s great attitude and voice, noting that he always wanted to see her perform alongside Jagger.
6.2. Stevie Wonder’s Contribution
Stevie Wonder also makes an appearance on the album, adding his signature sound to one of the tracks. Richards noted that such collaborations are more likely to happen when recording in Los Angeles.
6.3. Bill Wyman’s Return
Former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman also appears on the album, marking a reunion with the band. His presence adds a nostalgic element to the recording.
7. Richards’s Perspective on Music: Real vs. Artificial
Keith Richards has strong opinions about the authenticity of music. He prefers real, hand-crafted music recorded in real-time and without excessive computerization. He values the sound quality of vinyl records and is critical of digital music and AI.
7.1. Preference for Vinyl
Richards believes that vinyl offers the best sound quality for truly appreciating music. He notes that “We actually cut this record primarily for vinyl. It’s by far the best sound if you want to listen to a record properly.”
7.2. Criticism of Digital Music and AI
Richards is less enthusiastic about digital music, viewing it as “toy town” filled with synthesizers. He is even more critical of AI, calling it “superficial and artificial.” His preference for real, organic sound underscores his commitment to authentic musicianship.
7.3. “Rolling Stone Blues”: A Nod to Their Roots
The album concludes with “Rolling Stone Blues,” a Muddy Waters song that gave the band its name. This track features just Mick and Keith, standing around a microphone, riffing on the blues classic. It serves as a fitting tribute to their musical origins.
8. Future Plans: The Rolling Stones on Tour
Despite their long and storied career, the Rolling Stones have no plans to retire. They are plotting to take their new music on the road next year, “if everybody is still standing.” Richards remains optimistic about the band’s future, stating that they are all in good condition and enjoying what they do.
8.1. Continuing the Journey
Richards dismisses the idea of an ending, stating that “Of course it’s going to end some time, but there’s no particular rush. We’re having great fun doing this.” This reflects the band’s enduring passion and commitment to their music.
8.2. Good Health and Spirits
The band members are in good health and spirits, which bodes well for their upcoming tour. Their continued enthusiasm ensures that their performances will be as energetic and engaging as ever.
8.3. A Tip of the Hat to Muddy Waters
The final track on the album is a nod to Muddy Waters, Chicago, and all the blues musicians from whom they learned.
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FAQ: Keith Richards and His Guitar Playing
1. Does Keith Richards still play guitar?
Yes, Keith Richards continues to play guitar, showcasing his talent on the Rolling Stones’ new album, “Hackney Diamonds,” and in live performances.
2. How has arthritis affected Keith Richards’s guitar playing?
While arthritis has affected his hands, Keith Richards has adapted his playing style, finding new techniques and finger placements to continue playing.
3. What is “Hackney Diamonds”?
“Hackney Diamonds” is the Rolling Stones’ first album of new material in 18 years, featuring Keith Richards’s guitar work prominently.
4. Who produced “Hackney Diamonds”?
Andrew Watt produced “Hackney Diamonds,” bringing a fresh dynamic and disciplined approach to the recording process.
5. What is the significance of the album title “Hackney Diamonds”?
“Hackney Diamonds” is London slang for the shattered glass left after a smash-and-grab, encapsulating the album’s raw energy and untamed ferocity.
6. How did the Rolling Stones record “Hackney Diamonds” without Charlie Watts?
Charlie Watts’s drumming is featured on two tracks recorded in 2019, while Steve Jordan, handpicked by Watts, provided the rhythm section for the rest of the album.
7. Who are the guest artists on “Hackney Diamonds”?
“Hackney Diamonds” features guest appearances from Paul McCartney, Elton John, Lady Gaga, and Stevie Wonder.
8. What is Keith Richards’s opinion on digital music and AI?
Keith Richards prefers real, hand-crafted music recorded in real-time and is critical of digital music and AI, valuing the sound quality of vinyl records.
9. What are the Rolling Stones’ future plans?
The Rolling Stones plan to tour with their new music next year, continuing their long and storied career.
10. Where can I find resources to learn guitar like Keith Richards?
Visit guitarplayers.net for lessons, gear reviews, and a community of guitar enthusiasts to support your guitar journey.
