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Keith Richards on playing with the New Barbarians (1979)

“The thing about being in the Stones – and baby, when you’re in the Stones, you’re in the Stones – you don’t get that much chance to go out on the road and play with other people, as a part of another band, just to keep your hand in. It was a delicate situation, not to come on too strong. I was there to back Woody up and that’s what I tried to do. If you come on upstaging everybody, then there’s no buddy point in being there, because you might as well go out on the road on your own.” (Ref. new barbarians)

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The New Barbarians, formed in 1979 by Rolling Stones guitarist Ron Wood, was a short-lived supergroup that blended rock, R&B, and jazz influences. Wood recruited Keith Richards, bassist Stanley Clarke, and a variety of guest musicians to form the band. Initially, their purpose was to promote Wood’s solo album Gimme Some Neck, but the band became famous for their energetic performances. With a mix of original tracks and covers, their sets featured contributions from Richards, who took the lead on vocals for songs like Before They Make Me Run.

The New Barbarians were known for their raw, lively performances, with highlights such as their energetic shows at Madison Square Garden and the Knebworth Festival. Despite their success, the band’s future was limited by the members’ commitments to other projects. Wood and Richards continued with the Rolling Stones, and after a few high-profile gigs, the group disbanded by the end of 1979. While the New Barbarians didn’t last long, they made a lasting impression on fans with their impromptu rock ‘n’ roll approach and loose, fun atmosphere.

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