Keith Richards Shocks Fans with Major Announcement
Rolling Stones guitarist and rock legend Keith Richards stunned fans today with a surprising announcement that few saw coming. Speaking during an exclusive live-streamed interview, the 80-year-old icon revealed that he is planning to step away from large-scale touring, signaling a shift in his storied career spanning more than six decades.
“After all these years, I think it’s time to slow down a little,” Richards said with a grin. “The road’s been good to me, but there are other things I want to explore now—musically and personally.”
While Richards confirmed that the Rolling Stones will continue to perform select shows and special appearances, he hinted that full-scale global tours—long a hallmark of the band—are likely behind him. However, the guitarist left fans with hope, announcing he’s working on a new solo project expected to release in 2025.
“I’ve got some new music brewing, and it feels good,” Richards shared. “This isn’t the end—just a new chapter.”
Fans around the world reacted with a mix of emotions. Social media was flooded with tributes celebrating Richards’ influence on rock ‘n’ roll, alongside messages expressing sadness at the end of an era.
“He’s a living legend. It won’t be the same without him on tour,” said one fan on Twitter.
Richards also reflected on his health and lifestyle during the interview, joking about how he’s “outlived all the bad habits” that once defined his rebellious image. In recent years, he has made headlines for giving up smoking and making lifestyle changes to stay active.
Mick Jagger, Richards’ longtime bandmate, shared his reaction to the news, saying, “Keith has earned this a thousand times over. I know he’s got more music left in him, and I’m excited to see where it goes.”
Despite the announcement, Richards reassured fans that music would remain a constant in his life. “I’ll always be a guitar player. You can’t take that out of me,” he said. “I just won’t be living on the road the way I used to.”
The Rolling Stones are currently promoting their latest album, Hackney Diamonds, with a string of promotional appearances planned through the end of the year. While the future of the band’s touring schedule remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Keith Richards isn’t done leaving his mark on rock ‘n’ roll.
