How Keith Richards Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 20, 2026

How the contributions of Keith Richards continue to shape the world today.

Keith Richards is an iconic English musician, best known as a founding member, guitarist, and co-songwriter of the Rolling Stones. His songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger is one of history's most successful. Richards' distinctive guitar playing has defined the band's sound for over six decades. He gained notoriety for his countercultural image, romantic relationships, and admitted drug use. Originally known as Keith Richard, he later formally adopted his family name, Richards.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2010: Recognized as Creator of "Rock's Greatest Riffs"

In 2010, David Fricke of Rolling Stone magazine recognized Keith Richards as the creator of "rock's greatest single body of riffs" on guitar, and the magazine ranked him fourth on its list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. Rolling Stone also listed fourteen songs he co-wrote with Jagger on its "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" list.

2011: Rolling Stone Magazine Top 100 Guitarists Ranking

In 2011, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Keith Richards fourth on its list of 100 best guitarists.

2017: Referenced in "Mr Charisma" by The Waterboys

In 2017, the incident regarding Keith Richards' alleged snorting of his father's ashes was referenced in the song "Mr Charisma" by The Waterboys.

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2023: Rolling Stone Magazine Top 100 Guitarists Ranking

In 2023, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Keith Richards fifteenth on its list of best guitarists.

2023: Tom Waits Honored Keith Richards with a Poem, Statue in Dartford

In 2023, Tom Waits honored his friend Keith Richards with a poem titled, "Burnt Toast To Keith". Also in 2023, Keith Richards was honoured in Dartford with a statue.