Keith Richards (82), the roughest rocker of all time, shows no sign of stopping: ‘The songs just keep coming, those little darlings’

Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist of The Rolling Stones, shows no signs of slowing down at 82. The band is set to release its 25th album, 'Foreign Tongues,' a testament to their enduring creative energy. Richards, known for his rebellious image and a life lived on the edge, appears remarkably vital, even joking about his age.

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The songs just keep coming, those little darlings.

In an interview, Richards reflected on his past, acknowledging the intense lifestyle he led. He famously stated in his autobiography, 'Life,' that he had been conscious for at least three lifetimes due to sleeping only twice a week for many years. He attributes his survival and continued productivity to a form of self-control and careful dosing, rather than simply taking more substances. Richards detailed his cessation of heroin in 1978 and cocaine in 2006, and quit smoking cigarettes seven years ago.

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Years I slept an average of twice a week

Discussing the new album, 'Foreign Tongues,' Richards finds the theory that it represents the band's alpha and omega "great." He shared his thoughts via Zoom from The Hit Factory studio in Manhattan, a place steeped in musical history. Despite the sweltering New York heat, he wore a black beanie, adding to his iconic look.

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People think they get higher if they take more, but that's not how it works.

The album features a cover of Chuck Berry's 'Beautiful Delilah,' bringing the band full circle to their early influences. The Rolling Stones formed in 1962, inspired by blues legends like Muddy Waters and rock 'n' rollers like Chuck Berry. Richards' chance encounter with Mick Jagger at a London train station, both carrying records by these artists, marked the genesis of their legendary partnership as "The Glimmer Twins."

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All I drank was Muddy Waters