Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist of The Rolling Stones, has been mesmerizing audiences with his guitar riffs for decades. His distinct sound and innovative approach have cemented many of The Rolling Stones’ songs into the annals of rock ‘n’ roll history. Here are 10 of Keith Richards’ best guitar riffs that have contributed to the band’s iconic status:

1.”(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” –This riff is arguably one of the most recognizable in rock history. The fuzz-toned, three-note riff that kicks off the song is a fundamental example of Keith’s genius. It was a pivotal moment in rock music and remains a signature tune for the band.

2.”Jumpin’ Jack Flash” –Another quintessential Stones song, Keith delivers a powerful, driving riff that has become synonymous with the band’s rebellious image. It’s both gritty and catchy and sets the perfect tone for Mick Jagger’s vocal performance.

3.”Gimme Shelter” –The opening riff to “Gimme Shelter” is haunting and evocative, setting up a darker, more atmospheric track. Keith’s ability to create a groove that is complex yet subtle showcases his skill as a rhythm guitarist.

4.”Start Me Up” –With a riff that literally starts up the song with an explosive energy, it’s no wonder this tune was such a hit. The chugging rhythm perfectly captures The Rolling Stones’ raw, unpolished sound.

5.”Brown Sugar” –Another classic, Keith lays down a Southern-inspired riff that’s both dirty and irresistible. It’s an example of how he draws on different musical influences to create something unique.

6.”Can’t You Hear Me Knocking” –In this song, Keith’s riff transitions from a punchy, staccato intro to a fluid jam that carries through the rest of the track. This dynamic range shows his versatility as a musician.

7.”Honky Tonk Women” –The open-G tuning that Keith famously utilizes breathes life into this riff; it’s country-flavored with just enough rock ‘n’ roll to make it Stone-worthy.

8.”Tumbling Dice” –There’s a laid-back yet compelling groove in this track that epitomizes Richards’ style: seemingly simple but undeniably infectious and integral to the song’s rhythm.

9.”Sympathy for the Devil” –Not your typical power-chord driven riff, but rather an eerie and repetitive motif that builds throughout this iconic song, demonstrating Keith’s use of space and timing in his playing.

10.”Beast of Burden” –A more mellow offering on this list but no less extraordinary, the interwoven guitar parts create a smooth and sultry backdrop for this soulful track.

Each one of these riffs not only defines its respective song but also reflects Keith Richards’ incredible impact on rock music as one of its greatest guitarists. Through these riffs, Keith not only helped shape The Rolling Stones’ sound but also inspired countless other musicians around the world with his unmistakable style and undeniable swagger.