The week in music history brought to you by MusicGoldmine.com.
Just a couple of highlights from this week in music history!
DEC 18: Happy birthday to Keith Richards, born today in 1943! The legendary guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of The Rolling Stones is known for his gritty guitar riffs, rebellious persona, and enduring influence on rock music, Richards has become an icon of the genre. He first met Mick Jagger in his youth, and their partnership became the foundation of one of the most successful and enduring songwriting duos in history.
Richards’ distinctive guitar style, often employing open
tunings and a raw, blues-inspired approach, is central to The Rolling Stones' sound. His riffs on classics like Satisfaction, Jumpin’ Jack Flash, and Brown Sugar have become emblematic of rock ‘n’ roll. Beyond his guitar work, Richards’ gravelly voice has also been showcased in songs he sang lead on, such as Happy and Before They Make Me Run.
Despite a lifestyle once defined by excess, Richards’ resilience has become legendary, earning him a near-mythic status in the music world. He is also an accomplished solo artist, author, and actor, with his autobiography Life receiving critical acclaim. Still touring and recording with The Rolling Stones after six decades, Keith Richards epitomizes the spirit of rock, proving that his legacy is as enduring as his music.
Photo: Raph_PH [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en][cropped]
DEC 28: Happy birthday to Edgar Winter, born today in 1946! The musician, singer, and songwriter is widely recognized for his work in rock, jazz, blues, and pop. He is best known for his groundbreaking fusion of various musical genres, his virtuosic talent on multiple instruments, and his ability to play both with and without mainstream appeal. Edgar’s career spans over five decades and includes notable contributions to the rock and roll and progressive rock scenes.
Winter's most
famous album, They Only Come Out at Night (1972), includes the hit songs “Frankenstein” and “Free Ride,” both of which became staples on rock radio. “Frankenstein,” in particular, showcased his pioneering use of synthesizers, solidifying him as a key figure in the early days of electronic music. Edgar’s ability to blend genres and push boundaries led to collaborations with many well-known musicians, including his brother Johnny Winter, a prominent blues guitarist.
Despite his albinism, which often made him stand out in the music world, Edgar Winter built a successful career, earning multiple gold and platinum records. His influence extends to both rock and electronic music, with a legacy marked by innovation, technical prowess, and a commitment to genre-defying artistry.
Photo: Carl Lender [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en][cropped]
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