Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Keith Richards
Public opinion and media debates around Keith Richards—discover key moments of controversy.
Keith Richards is a renowned English musician, songwriter, singer, and record producer, best known as a founding member, guitarist, and co-principal songwriter of the Rolling Stones. His songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger is legendary. Spanning over six decades, his distinctive guitar playing has become a hallmark of the Rolling Stones' sound. Richards has also been a prominent figure in popular culture, often associated with his romantic relationships and past drug use. He is celebrated as a countercultural icon and a key figure in rock music history.
February 1967: Police Raid at Redlands
In February 1967, a police raid occurred at Redlands, Keith Richards's Sussex estate, leading to the arrest of Richards and Mick Jagger.
June 1967: Sentenced to Prison
On 29 June 1967, Keith Richards was found guilty of allowing cannabis to be smoked on his property and sentenced to one year in prison, but was released on bail the next day pending appeal.
1973: Drug Related Charges
In 1973, Keith Richards faced drug related charges twice.
February 1977: Arrested in Toronto for Heroin Possession
On 27 February 1977, Keith Richards was arrested in Toronto for "possession of heroin for the purpose of trafficking".
1977: Drug Related Charges
In 1977, Keith Richards faced drug related charges.
October 1978: Pleads Guilty to Heroin Possession
In October 1978, Keith Richards pleaded guilty to possession of heroin, receiving a suspended sentence and probation.
1978: Drug Related Charges
In 1978, Keith Richards faced drug related charges.
September 1979: Original Sentence Upheld
In September 1979, the Ontario Court of Appeal upheld Keith Richards' original sentence.
1994: Speaks on Drug Image
In 1994, Keith Richards said his image was "like a long shadow ... Even though that was nearly twenty years ago, you cannot convince some people that I'm not a mad drug addict."
April 2007: NME Interview Controversy
In April 2007, Keith Richards gave an interview to NME magazine, where he allegedly joked about snorting his father's ashes, sparking media controversy.
2015: Expresses Dislike for Rap and Hip Hop
In a 2015 interview, Keith Richards expressed his dislike for rap and hip hop, deeming them for "tone deaf" people.
2016: Statement on Substance Use
In 2016, Keith Richards stated that he still occasionally drinks alcohol and consumes hashish and cannabis.
