The Ultimate Rhythm Guitarist: Keith Richards' Perspective
The world of rhythm guitar playing is an art form in itself, and Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist of The Rolling Stones, has a unique perspective on who truly masters it. While many aspiring guitarists dream of soloing with lightning speed, Richards emphasizes the importance of rhythm and harmony within a band. In this article, we explore Richards' views on rhythm guitar playing and his admiration for one iconic artist.
The Band Comes First
Keith Richards, despite his love for the spotlight, always prioritized the band's brilliance. He believed that a good singer, a great drummer, and a serious lead guitarist are essential, but they must work in harmony. Richards' passion lies in rhythm guitarists, as he sees them as the heartbeat of the band, driving the music forward.
Lead Guitarist Extraordinaire
Richards also had his moments as a lead guitarist. During his time with Brian Jones and Mick Taylor, he showcased his skills with furious lead tones, including the iconic solo for 'Sympathy for the Devil'. However, his true strength lies in his ability to create captivating guitar riffs.
Riff Mastery
Richards' guitar riffs are legendary, and he excels in both standard tuning and his signature five-string open tuning. From the haunting atmosphere of 'Gimme Shelter' to the horn line that revolutionized hard rock with 'Satisfaction', his riffs are timeless and influential. Richards' contribution to the creation of riffs is unparalleled, as he provides the driving force behind every Rolling Stones song.
Rhythm and Influence
Richards' rhythmic approach is heavily influenced by his studies under guitarists like Chuck Berry. He believes that the right strumming technique can give any band momentum, pushing them forward. However, he also draws inspiration from The Everly Brothers, who brought a melodic twist to rock and roll with their signature acoustic rhythm guitars.
The Everly Brothers' Impact
Richards was deeply impressed by The Everlys' rhythm guitar playing, especially during his first American tour with The Stones. He recalled in his book, 'Life', that Don Everly's rhythm guitar playing was unparalleled, setting up the voices perfectly. Richards admired their professionalism and the subtle yet powerful impact they had on their songs.
Everlys' Influence on The Stones
Despite The Rolling Stones' signature darkness, Richards incorporated elements of The Everlys' style into his playing. On songs like 'Wild Horses', you can hear the influence of The Everlys, with Richards adding subtle acoustic guitar pushes to enhance the lyrics. This blend of darkness and melody showcases the band's versatility and Richards' ability to draw from various influences.
In conclusion, Keith Richards' perspective on rhythm guitar playing highlights the importance of harmony, rhythm, and the influence of iconic artists like The Everly Brothers. His own playing style, a fusion of blues and rock, showcases his mastery of the art, making him one of the best rhythm guitarists in history.
