Keith Richards's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Keith Richards. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

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.

Sections (7)

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

April 1979: Performs Benefit Concerts for the Blind

On 22 April 1979, Keith Richards performed two CNIB benefit concerts, featuring the Rolling Stones and the New Barbarians, as part of his sentence for heroin possession.

1989: Award Received in 1989

In 1989, Keith Richards received the Living Legend Award.

1989: Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

In 1989, Keith Richards was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Rolling Stones, marking a significant career milestone.

1993: Inducted into Songwriters Hall of Fame

In 1993, Keith Richards was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to music.

2004: Induction into UK Music Hall of Fame

In 2004, Keith Richards was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame with the Rolling Stones.

March 2007: Induction of the Ronettes into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

On 12 March 2007, Keith Richards attended the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony to induct the Ronettes and played guitar during the all-star jam session.

August 2009: Ranked Among Top Electric Guitar Players

In August 2009, Keith Richards was ranked No. 4 in Time magazine's list of the 10 best electric guitar players of all time.

October 2009: Rock Immortal Award

On 17 October 2009, Keith Richards received the Rock Immortal Award at Spike TV's Scream 2009 awards ceremony in Los Angeles, presented by Johnny Depp.

2010: Recognition as a Guitar Riff Creator

In 2010, David Fricke of Rolling Stone magazine referred to Keith Richards as the creator of "rock's greatest single body of riffs" on guitar. He was also ranked fourth on its list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time.

2011: Ranked Fourth Best Guitarist by Rolling Stone

In 2011, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Keith Richards fourth on its list of the 100 best guitarists, acknowledging his significant impact on music.

February 2012: Tribute to Chuck Berry and Leonard Cohen

On 26 February 2012, Keith Richards paid tribute to Chuck Berry and Leonard Cohen, who received the first annual PEN Awards for songwriting excellence at the JFK Presidential Library in Boston, Massachusetts.