Keith Richards has spent decades building a reputation as one of rock music’s most rebellious figures. From sold-out tours with The Rolling Stones to countless stories about his wild lifestyle, the legendary guitarist has rarely shied away from discussing his past.
Now, at 82 years old, Richards is reflecting on a major personal change that has improved his health and stamina. In a recent interview, the rock icon revealed that he finally gave up smoking after decades of carrying the habit with him throughout his career. The decision marks one of the biggest lifestyle adjustments he has made in recent years and is already producing noticeable results.
Keith Richards Decided It Was Time For A Change
Richards explained that he often listened to his body before it reached a breaking point. Over time, he began to feel differently about smoking and eventually reached a moment when the habit no longer appealed to him. According to the musician, seeing himself constantly holding a cigarette eventually made him question why he was still doing it. He described the habit as feeling childish and said that realization played a major role in helping him walk away from it. To make the transition easier, he used nicotine patches as part of the process.
According to Parade, the decision was not easy considering how long smoking had been part of his daily routine. However, Richards said he no longer thinks about cigarettes very often and feels fortunate that he does not miss them. That has made maintaining the lifestyle change much easier than he expected.
The Benefits Became Clear During Tour Rehearsals
The positive effects became obvious when Richards returned to rehearsals for touring. He noticed a significant difference in his breathing and overall stamina compared to previous years. The guitarist revealed that he now has much more air in his lungs and stronger vocal endurance. Those improvements have helped him continue performing despite the physical demands that come with touring and live shows. For an artist who remains active well into his eighties, the change has proven especially valuable.
Keith Richards has never hidden his complicated history with drugs and alcohol. Throughout his life, he faced highly publicized legal troubles and openly discussed past substance use. While he eventually gave up cocaine years ago, he has said he still enjoys drinking in moderation. For fans, the revelation offers another example of Richards’ ability to adapt and evolve. Even after decades in the spotlight, the legendary musician continues making changes that allow him to keep doing what he loves most—creating music and performing for audiences around the world.