Keith Richards Reveals How Arthritis Affects His Guitar Playing Today

In a candid conversation with Guitar World, Keith Richards reflected on how arthritis has reshaped his relationship with the guitar. At 82, the Rolling Stones icon acknowledged a natural decline in speed, admitting, “I’m not as fast as I used to be.”

Rather than resist the change, Richards has embraced it, stripping his playing down to its essentials. The result is a more deliberate, economical style—one that leans into feel over flash. He explained that physical limitations have pushed him to think differently about the instrument:

“At my age, what I find most interesting about the guitar is you can compensate for certain disabilities and nimbleness and find other ways of getting around the problem,” he said. “And it teaches you another thing – you never stop learning with the damn thing. I love it, and it’s my friend forever.”

Adapting the Instrument to the Artist

Richards also shared how he has modified his gear to better suit his condition. Arthritis has affected his hands, particularly his knuckles, which have grown larger over time. While not painful, the condition presents practical challenges.

“Well, I do have arthritis and very large knuckles,” he explained. “They don’t hurt, but it does get in the way sometimes. I’m going for a wider fingerboard for that reason.”

These adjustments reflect a musician unwilling to step away, instead choosing to evolve alongside his instrument. His approach remains grounded in acceptance and curiosity rather than frustration.

“Honestly, I just look at my hands, and my hands look at me, and we say, ‘Well, let’s see what we can do today,'” Richards said. “And that’s the way I play guitar. I look at it and say, ‘We’ve got nothing else to do. Come here. I love you!'”

The Stones Keep Rolling

While Richards continues to adapt personally, the broader story of The Rolling Stones is far from finished. The band last hit the road in 2024 in support of their 2023 album Hackney Diamonds, reaffirming their enduring presence in rock music.

Producer Andrew Watt has confirmed that new material is already in the works, though details remain closely guarded. “I’ve said it before, but it’s like working for Batman,” Watt said. “When the tongue is up in the air, you just go … I can say we did some recording together, but that’s all I can say.”

Adding to the intrigue, Richards’ son, Marlon, hinted that the band may already have enough material for another release. Buoyed by the Grammy-winning success of Hackney Diamonds, the Stones appear energized—ready, perhaps, to prove once again that longevity and creativity can still go hand in hand.