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Keith Richards reflects on Bill Wyman’s departure from the Rolling Stones (2003): “At the end of the Urban Jungle tour Bill said he was leaving the band. I got really pissed with him. I threatened to do everything in the world to him, including death at dawn – as I always say, Nobody leaves this band except in a coffin. But he made up his mind: he’d really started to hate flying, he developed a real fear of flying. Now, this was pretty strange after 25 years, but it happens to people. He was having to drive to every gig, which was knackering him, and sometimes people get to the end of their tether.” keith richards reflects
In the ever-evolving world of rock ‘n’ roll, band dynamics can often be unpredictable. One such moment of change occurred in 1993 when Bill Wyman, the bassist for the iconic Rolling Stones, decided to part ways with the band after three decades of music-making. This departure left a significant impact on the band, and in a 2003 interview, Keith Richards reflected on this milestone moment.
Richards, known for his gritty guitar playing and rock ‘n’ roll spirit, shared his thoughts on Wyman’s departure and the challenges it brought to the band’s dynamic. The departure of a band member, especially one who has been with a group for such an extended period, can lead to uncertainty and doubts about the future. Richards admitted that the band had their concerns but remained optimistic about the road ahead. Despite the challenges, the Rolling Stones pushed forward, experimenting with new sounds and inviting new musicians to join their ranks. Richards emphasized the importance of embracing change while staying true to the band’s original spirit.
The Rolling Stones, known for their timeless hits and electrifying performances, have proven time and again their ability to adapt and overcome obstacles. Bill Wyman’s departure was undoubtedly a significant moment in their history, but Keith Richards’ reflections remind us that change can be a powerful catalyst for growth. As the Rolling Stones continue to captivate audiences across the world.
