Keith Richards, the riff master behind The Rolling Stones’ enduring sound, isn’t solely captivated by the six-string. Known for shaping rock and roll with a raw, rhythmic approach, Richards has always been more about feel than technical mastery. Beyond his role as a guitarist, his expansive love for music sets him apart, revealing an unparalleled understanding of the art form.
Richards’ appreciation of music goes far beyond his bandmates, including Brian Jones, Mick Taylor, and Ronnie Wood. Despite his laid-back demeanor and cryptic charm, Richards possesses a deep musical wisdom, making his opinions on all aspects of a band’s setup, including drummers, highly valued.
In a 2003 conversation for his Ask Keith series, Richards shared his favorite drummers, blending legends of jazz with modern talents. While the list might evolve with time, his selections reflect his profound connection to rhythm and groove.
When asked who his favorite drummers were, Richards didn’t hesitate to place Charlie Watts—his longtime Rolling Stones bandmate—at the top. Acknowledging Watts’ jazz roots, Richards cited him as a cornerstone of rock percussion. He then expanded the list with names spanning decades and genres: Steve Jordan, Charley Drayton, George Recile, Gene Krupa, Baby Dodds, and George Wettling. These jazz greats revolutionized drumming, leaving a legacy that resonates even in rock’s rawest forms. Richards also expressed admiration for contemporary players like George Recile, Bob Dylan’s drummer, and Steve Jordan, who later joined The Rolling Stones after Watts’ passing.
Steve Jordan himself praised Richards’ dedication to music, telling Vanity Fair, “Very few people I’ve worked with are more committed to music than Keith Richards. Everything revolves around the music.” This commitment underscores Richards’ belief in the vital role of drummers within a band’s dynamic.
Dispelling a common rock myth that great drummers are scarce, Richards highlighted their abundance and diversity. “There are loads out there I can’t even mention. African drummers blow my mind, and Sly Dunbar from Jamaica is incredible—but he’s not the only one,” Richards shared. His appreciation extends beyond technical skill, focusing instead on the irreplaceable chemistry between drummers and bass players.
“A rhythm section has to sync perfectly,” Richards explained. “You can have a fantastic bass player and a fantastic drummer, but if their chemistry is off, it won’t work. It’s about connection—it’s something you can’t quite define.”
For Richards, drummers are the heart of rock and roll. Without them, as he puts it, “you’re kind of nowhere.”
