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Keith Richards, on reconciling with Mick Jagger (1988):
“I was trying to keep the band together, but now maybe I do feel that this breathing space is a good thing for the Stones. A little ventilation…Maybe the Stones needed a little fresh air. I still have lots of reservations about Mick, but I think that ‘s something natural we all go through as people. Eventually we’ll work it out and I have no doubt we can work together…

…I’ve known him for 40 years and our fights are on many different levels, not just about who runs the Stones blah, blah, blah. It’s more to do with knowing somebody for so long, and you get to a point where you think a mate of yours is screwing up and you try to tell him because that’s what friends are for. ‘Cause everybody else has said, Yes, Mick, yes, Mick so many times. It’s the LV (lead vocalist) syndrome. It goes with the job…

…You think you’re semi-divine out there, semi-divine when you come offstage, and in the limousine, and on the plane. Eventually, you think you’re semi-divine, period. So that’s one of the things we have to get through. Having the Stones work again next year will probably solve the problems between Mick and myself. Mick has always perceived this thing as a power struggle between us, but it’s not like that…

…Yet it’s very hard to convince somebody there isn’t a power struggle if they perceive there is one. It only takes one person to perceive something as a power struggle, and then it is one, and people are forced to take sides. It’s not a good feeling. So I’m hoping that these two years have cleared the air and that nobody has to worry about that anymore.” (Ref. jagger richards)

*Click for MORE ROLLING STONES QUOTES THROUGH THE YEARS

The Rolling Stones have had their fair share of ups and downs throughout their legendary career. But it was in 1988 that a significant moment happened for the band, marking a turning point in their history. At that time, Keith Richards, the iconic guitarist, found himself in the midst of a turbulent period with Mick Jagger, the Stones’ charismatic frontman. A rift had formed between the two, straining their relationship and threatening to tear the band apart. However, amidst the chaos, Richards had one goal in mind – to keep the band together.

Reflecting on this challenging period, Richards shared his thoughts on reconciling with Jagger in 1988. These words encapsulate the resilience and determination that Keith Richards possessed during this testing time. He recognized that, despite the differences and conflicts, the Rolling Stones were more than just a band; they were a unit that had shaped an era of music and had a profound impact on generations of fans.Richards understood the value of reconciliation, not only for the sake of the band but also for the sake of their shared artistic vision. He knew that by mending their relationship, they could continue to create exceptional music that inspired and moved audiences around the world.And they succeeded. The Rolling Stones managed to overcome their differences, finding common ground and reigniting their creative spark.

Their ability to reconcile showcased their dedication to their craft and the strength of their bond as musicians.This episode in the Rolling Stones’ history serves as a reminder of the power of reconciliation and the resilience that comes with it. It shows that even the greatest bands are not immune to conflicts and obstacles. Yet, it is through these challenges that true growth and renewed artistry can emerge.As we admire the timeless music of the Rolling Stones, let us also appreciate the journey they have taken – a journey marked by reconciliation, resilience, and the unwavering spirit to keep the band together against all odds.