5 Great Rolling Stones Song Keith Richards Sang

Keith Richards, known for his distinctive voice, may not be your typical crooner, but his vocal prowess shines through in the songs he leads for The Rolling Stones.

Here are five tracks that showcase Richards’ emotive delivery:

1. “Thru and Thru” (from the album Voodoo Lounge, 1994)
While Richards is often seen as a rock rebel, “Thru and Thru” proves his prowess as a balladeer. The track, featured in The Sopranos, reveals Richards’ ability to convey sweet and soulful emotions, despite his unorthodox phrasing and, of course, a Keith Richards-style f-bomb.

2. “Slipping Away” (from the album Steel Wheels, 1989)
Richards has a knack for closing albums with slow, contemplative songs, and “Slipping Away” on Steel Wheels is a prime example. It resonates with those who have weathered life’s challenges, and Mick Jagger’s appearance adds a contrasting urgency to the overall resigned sorrow.

3. “All About You” (from the album Emotional Rescue, 1980)
Amidst the Richards-Jagger tension, “All About You” becomes an outlet for Keith’s frustrations. The closing track allows Richards to express disappointment, even at himself, rather than anger, as he candidly wonders why he’s still in love with his creative partner.

4. “Before They Make Me Run” (from the album Some Girls, 1978)
Despite Richards’ limited involvement in Some Girls, he asserts himself with the frontman role in “Before They Make Me Run.” The song captures his outlaw image, playfully referencing booze and pills while emphasizing his ability to make an inconspicuous getaway.

5. “Happy” (from the album Exile on Main St., 1972)
Recorded informally at Richards’ French villa, “Happy” is a showcase of his songwriting and instrumental skills. Richards expresses that love satisfies him more than anything else, and the track has become a staple at Stones concerts, highlighting his enduring ability to connect with audiences.