Keith Richards, known for his candid rock ‘n’ roll opinions, doesn’t mince words when it comes to his music preferences. While the Rolling Stones guitarist has showered praise on artists like Aretha Franklin, his thoughts on other musicians—especially singers—can be downright scathing. Richards has been unapologetically critical of legends such as David Bowie, Black Sabbath, and even his own bandmate, Mick Jagger. But the singer who has truly rubbed him the wrong way might surprise you: Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin.
Despite the widespread admiration for Plant’s voice, Richards revealed in an interview that he found it increasingly grating over time.
“The guy’s voice started to get on my nerves. I don’t know why; maybe he’s a little too acrobatic,” he admitted.
This criticism dates back to 1969, well before the pair famously collaborated in 1974 on the track Scarlet. However, Richards later softened his stance, admitting that his thoughts on Plant evolved as he became more focused on the band’s guitarist. “To me, Led Zeppelin is Jimmy Page if you wanna cut the story short,” Richards once stated.
But Richards hasn’t exactly become a fan of Led Zeppelin as a whole. In a 2004 interview, he called the band’s music uninspiring, saying, “As a band, I felt aptly named, it never took off for me musically.” While Richards acknowledged the talent within the band, particularly Page’s guitar skills and Bonham’s drumming, he couldn’t help but critique their style.
“Bonham was a hell of a powerhouse drummer, although I think he’s kind of heavy-handed…that’s when the ‘Led’ comes in,” Richards remarked. As for Plant, Richards considered him just another loud-mouthed English frontman, comparing him to the likes of Roger Daltrey, Rod Stewart, and even Mick Jagger.
Richards’ preferences have always leaned toward a more laid-back, soulful style. He has long admired artists like Gregory Isaacs, Sam Cooke, and Mavis Staples, whose emotive performances are worlds apart from the high-octane energy of Led Zeppelin.
Even as recently as 2015, Richards didn’t have much love for the band as a whole. While he praised Page’s brilliance as a guitarist, he remained critical of the band’s dynamic. “I love Jimmy Page, but as a band, no…with John Bonham thundering down the highway in an uncontrolled 18-wheeler,” he said, adding, “Jimmy is a brilliant player. But I always felt there was something a little hollow about it, you know?”
Despite their differences, Richards and Plant did team up for Scarlet, a sultry track that remains a standout moment in both of their careers. While Richards may not have been won over by Plant’s voice, the collaboration is a testament to the mutual respect between two legends.
In the end, Keith Richards’ opinions might be harsh, but they’re never anything less than honest—and that’s what makes them so compelling.
