Exploring The First Time Keith Richards Played The Guitar
Few figures in the sacred halls of rock and roll are as monumental and timeless as guitar virtuoso Keith Richards, whose recognizable riffs and soulful chords have become the pulse of generations. Richards, also known as the “Human Riff,” is well known for his gritty yet melodic style and has left his mark on guitar legend.
Richards is unique not only because of his technical skill but also because of the alchemical magic he conjures up with each stride. His unusual chord progressions and unique open-tuning methods have produced timeless hits, such as the disobedient ‘Satisfaction’ and the eerie ‘Paint It Black.’
Richards’s persona is a kaleidoscope of rockstar mystique beyond the strings. His worn face bears witness to innumerable performances, late hours, and a life well lived. The iconic interaction between his guitar and cigarette, which appear to be extensions of one another, represents the unfiltered, unadulterated essence of rock music.
Richards’ pen has written hymns that speak to the human condition in his capacity as a songwriter. His lyrics, which are frequently laced with poetic grit, reflect the ups and downs of life, love, and the never-ending quest for independence. Every note and every riff is a chapter in a musical autobiography that speaks to the souls of romantics, rebels, and people who are looking for authenticity.
Keith Richards’s Memories With The Guitar
Keith Richards still finds the guitar to be very appealing, and he treasures his memories of it. Like Paul Simon in his interview with Stern, Richards highlights that learning to play the guitar is a lifelong journey. Richards reflects on how his grandfather introduced him to the instrument and says, “My grandfather introduced me – because he had one, which helped.”
He continues, chuckling, “It was just something that caught my attention. After lending it to me, Grandpa instructed me to “put your fingers here and try this out,” and that’s how it started. I was like, ‘I really like this,’ but I had no idea what I was doing with my life about playing music or anything.”
His grandfather, Gus, who is also a violinist, was very important in helping him get started in music. Gus gave him the guitar and said, “If you can learn this little Spanish thing – this flamenco thing called Malagueña – it’s quite simple to start with then you can elaborate, but if you can learn that, you’ll be able to play guitar.” Though at first Richards had no intention of becoming a professional musician, he soon realized he was hooked months later. When he joined forces with Mick Jagger and other guitarists to form the Rolling Stones, his viewpoint was altered.
Richards says he still practices playing the guitar every day and calls it a “work in progress.”
-Farheen Ali
