Keith Richards is an acclaimed English musician, producer and singer-songwriter as well as an icon of popular culture. He is a founding member of the world-famous English rock band “The Rolling Stones” and one of the most renowned guitarists of all time. He has written several solo albums, most notably Main Offender, Talk Is Cheap and The X-Pensive Winos, as well as collaborating with renowned artists such as Aretha Franklin and Bob Dylan. His 2010 memoir “Life” is a remarkable addition to his list of accomplishments.
Life focuses on Richards’ tumultuous life and career, blending the autobiographical with the entertaining and the thoughtful. Through an entertaining and irreverent voice, Richards recounts his childhood memories, his pivotal career moments, his various accomplishments, and his activities in his later years - all while vividly describing how he lived them. He also touches on his relationships, his struggles, and his mistakes - all of which play a role in his personal and professional life.
Richards’ childhood was tumultuous and unstable, encompassing multiple moves and periods of poverty. He grew up in Dartford, England with minimal education, his first education of any kind coming from the records his father brought home. This early education was enough for him to gain some recognition for his guitar playing, which he began to form the rudimentary version of The Rolling Stones at 16.
After the original Stones lineup was established, the band went on to great success, releasing two UK number one singles, followed by a string of hits and global tours. The band’s fame and success gave Richards the opportunity to spread his creative wings and become an accomplished guitarist, songwriter, and producer. While on tour, Richards wrote songs with other musicians and in the studio at times created some of the timeless Stones classics.
The story of Keith Richards’ life isn’t just one of success, however. Throughout it all, he has battled addiction, legal troubles, and the ups and downs of life and of fame. Through the ups and downs, however, Richards has emerged as a beloved icon of rock and roll and a mentor to countless musicians. He speaks to embracing the joy of discovery, taking joy and pride in one’s work, and staying true to yourself no matter the struggles that come your way.
In Life, Richards uses his memoir to share his insights on life, along with his humor and honest reflections. He doesn’t shy away from discussing his addictions, legal issues, and even his relationships. Despite it all, he comes out the other side with a renewed sense of joy and appreciation for life’s experiences. The book is packed with vivid, candid, and surprisingly tender musings that, in aggregate, paint a remarkable portrait of a fascinating life and a captivating individual.
Keith Richards’ memoir is an extraordinary work. It is captivating, fascinating, and wise, revealing every aspect of a multifaceted life and providing a glimpse into the mind of a rock 'n' roll legend. The story is both entertaining and edifying, detailing a life filled with struggle and success, heartache and happiness. It is a must-read book for any fan of music or simply someone looking for an inspiring and informative story.
