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5 Songs That Prove Keith Richards Is a Blues Guitarist
Keith Richards, affectionately known as Keef by Rolling Stones fans, is often celebrated for his role in shaping rock and roll. Yet, at his core, Keith is a blues guitarist. His style is steeped in the blues tradition, with a deep emotional resonance that connects directly to the roots of American music. For those who love the blues and the Stones, here are five tracks that showcase Keith Richards’ profound connection to the blues.
1. “Love in Vain” (Let It Bleed, 1969)
“Love in Vain” is a Robert Johnson classic reimagined by the Stones. Keith’s guitar work on this track is pure blues. He captures the haunting, melancholic tone with a simplicity that speaks volumes. The way he plays, letting each note linger as if savoring its taste, shows his deep respect for the blues masters. This song is a testament to Keith’s ability to channel the spirit of the blues through his guitar.
2. “Midnight Rambler” (Let It Bleed, 1969)
“Midnight Rambler” is a journey through dark, bluesy terrains. Keith’s guitar drives the song, with riffs that are both gritty and fluid. He uses the guitar to tell a story, building tension and releasing it in a way that is quintessentially blues. The energy he brings to this live favorite demonstrates his prowess in melding rock with the blues to create something electrifying.
3. “You Gotta Move” (Sticky Fingers, 1971)
This song is a cover of a Mississippi Fred McDowell number. Keith’s slide guitar on “You Gotta Move” is a direct nod to the Delta blues style. The raw, stripped-down guitar work highlights his ability to adopt and adapt traditional blues techniques. It’s Keith going back to the basics, proving how grounded he is in the true essence of the blues.
4. “Thru and Thru” (Voodoo Lounge, 1994)
However a later track, “Thru and Thru” shows Keith hasn’t lost his touch with the blues. Here, his guitar sings with a plaintive, soulful voice. The track features Keith on lead vocals, and his guitar complements his voice in a way that only a true bluesman can achieve. It’s a more reflective blues, showcasing his maturity and depth as a musician.
5. “Slipping Away” (Steel Wheels, 1989)
On “Slipping Away,” Keith takes the spotlight with both vocals and a gentle, poignant guitar performance. The song has a laid-back blues feel, with Keith’s guitar providing a soft, melancholic backdrop. It’s a quieter kind of blues but no less impactful. This song highlights his ability to evoke emotion through subtlety and nuance in his guitar playing.
Keith Richards’ contribution to the Rolling Stones and rock music is immense, but his roots in the blues are undeniable. These five songs are just a glimpse of how deeply embedded the blues are in Keith’s musical soul. For fans over 60, these tracks are not just music; they are a powerful reminder of the blues’ enduring influence on one of the greatest guitarists of our time.
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