
Keith Richards, the 81‑year‑old guitar icon of the Rolling Stones, is back in the studio working on a new band album at the legendary Metropolis Studios in London. Despite managing arthritis in his hands that affects his play, Richards remains creatively engaged and honored recently with a Governor’s Award in Connecticut for his contributions to music and culture.
New Rolling Stones Album in the Works
According to recent insiders and Rolling Stones updates, the band has returned to the studio to lay down tracks for a follow‑up to *Hackney Diamonds* (2023) after a 2025 UK/Europe tour. Work is progressing at London’s Metropolis Studios, where Keith is contributing riffs and reworking classics for the upcoming release :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Awarded for Musical Excellence
Richards was recently honored with the Connecticut Governor’s Award for Excellence in Music, a recognition of his lifetime influence and his local impact through charity performances and collaborations. At the ceremony, he shared humorous reflections on his career and praised the power of live rock music :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Arthritis, Adaptation & Artistic Drive
Keith openly acknowledges that arthritis has started to affect his guitar playing—particularly bending and intricate chordwork—but insists it hasn’t dimmed his creative spirit: “If you take it too seriously, you’re f***ed,” he remarked in a recent interview, adding that adaptations on technique help him keep playing :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
In addition to Stones sessions, Keith recently celebrated Record Store Day with a new limited-edition live vinyl from his solo band, The X‑pensive Winos, and dropped a cover of Lou Reed’s “I’m Waiting for the Man” as part of a tribute album :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}. These releases underscore that, even past 80, Richards continues to create and reconnect with fans through fresh recordings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Keith Richards still recording?
Yes, he’s currently in London with the Rolling Stones working on a new album. - How does arthritis affect him?
He experiences pain and difficulty with chord bends, but adapts his playing style. - What award did he win?
The Connecticut Governor’s Award for Excellence in Music. - Any new solo music?
Yes—new live vinyl from The X‑pensive Winos and a Lou Reed cover were recently released. - Will the Stones tour again?
Although no dates announced yet, ongoing studio work suggests future live plans.
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