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Keith Richards about bourbon
“You actually go down to Kentucky, Louisville, and they’ve got bourbons that make Old Grandad and Jack Daniels look like Schweppes bitter lemon…There’s one called, ah, Rebel Yell, and that’s dynamite shit.”
Keith Richards, the legendary Rolling Stones guitarist, has long been associated with a rock‘n’ roll lifestyle fueled by music, rebellion, and, of course, a taste for strong spirits. Among the many drinks synonymous with Richards, bourbon whiskey holds a special place in his storied history.
In his autobiography Life, Richards recalls his fondness for bourbon, particularly during the Stones’ early days. While other members of the band experimented with various drinks, Richards gravitated toward bourbon for its bold, robust flavor—a drink that matched his persona. It wasn’t just a drink for him; it became part of the ambiance during recording sessions, songwriting, and long nights on tour.
Richards’ choice of bourbon often reflected his preference for straightforward, no-nonsense drinks, much like his approach to guitar riffs: raw, authentic, and full of character. Whether it was Jack Daniel’s or other brands, bourbon accompanied Richards through decades of legendary stories, from backstage parties to late-night jam sessions.
However, despite his infamous indulgences, Richards has always shown remarkable resilience. In later years, he scaled back his drinking, acknowledging the toll it could take. Still, he often jokes about his relationship with bourbon and other vices, framing them as part of the chaotic beauty of a life lived unapologetically.
For fans, Keith Richards and bourbon whiskey symbolize the essence of rock‘n’roll—unfiltered, timeless, and unapologetically bold. While Richards may have slowed down, his legacy as a bourbon-loving icon remains firmly etched in the minds of those who admire his music and his spirit. Now can I have a drink with you Keith?
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