Keith Richards names most unique guitarist ever
Keith Richards has always been deeply immersed in the world of music. While his initial passion was jazz, the founding member of The Rolling Stones soon transitioned to rock ‘n’ roll upon realizing it was his true calling. Despite misconceptions, The Rolling Stones were primarily driven by a love for pure rock ‘n’ roll rather than the sex and drugs often associated with them. The band’s primary focus was on breaking free from the constraints of conservatism, with Keith Richards embodying this rebellious spirit.
Richards has become synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll and established himself as an iconic figure in the music world. His presence is so ingrained in the fabric of music history that it’s hard to envision a time when he wasn’t a prominent figure. Whether blasting through the radio waves, making headlines, or engaging in playful banter with fellow musicians like Elton John, Richards is most at home with a guitar in hand.
In the documentary “Keith Richards: Under The Influence,” Richards shared the pivotal role his family played in his musical journey. He fondly recalled his mother Doris, describing her as a music aficionado with impeccable taste. She had a knack for finding quality music on the radio, exposing Richards to a diverse range of sounds. Additionally, his grandfather was instrumental in sparking Richards’ interest in playing the guitar, setting him on a path that would define his life.
As Richards’ musical tastes evolved, he found inspiration in unexpected places. Late-night listening sessions to Radio Luxembourg introduced him to artists like Little Richard and Elvis Presley, whose music left a lasting impact on him. In particular, Elvis Presley’s song “Heartbreak Hotel” served as a catalyst for Richards, igniting a passion for the electric guitar. Although Presley often garnered the spotlight, Richards found himself drawn to guitarist Scotty Moore, who inspired him to explore the electric side of music.
Following Moore’s passing in 2016, Richards paid tribute to the influential guitarist, highlighting Moore’s unique playing style that seamlessly blended elements of jazz, country, and blues. Moore’s contributions to Presley’s music were instrumental in shaping the rock ‘n’ roll landscape, despite his name not being as widely recognized. Richards credited Moore with sparking his interest in electric guitar and studio experimentation, praising Moore’s unmatched talent for creating timeless music.
Scotty Moore may not be a household name, but his impact on rock ‘n’ roll is undeniable. His legacy lives on through his music, and his groundbreaking contributions continue to inspire musicians worldwide. The intricate fusion of genres in Moore’s playing style resonated with Richards and laid the foundation for his own experimentation and innovation in the studio. Moore’s influence on Richards remains a testament to the enduring power of music and the everlasting impact of talented musicians throughout history.