The Rolling Stones' iconic guitarist Keith Richards has recently opened up about his decision to quit smoking, a habit he maintained for most of his life. In a candid interview with The Guardian, Richards revealed that he gave up smoking six years ago, citing that the act had started to feel 'childish' to him. This unexpected revelation comes as a surprise to many, given the rocker's long history of chain-smoking and his reputation for living life on the edge.
Richards' decision to quit smoking is a significant milestone in his life, marking a notable shift towards a healthier lifestyle. According to the 82-year-old musician, the realization that he needed to start taking care of his body hit him when he was 'not far from the end of the runway.' He noted that he tends to listen to his body just before it screams for help, and this time, he decided to take a proactive approach to his well-being. The urge to slow down and pace himself has become more pronounced with age, leading Richards to reevaluate his habits and make positive changes.
Despite quitting smoking, Richards hasn't completely given up on his vices. He still smokes 'a lot of' marijuana, a habit he seems to have no intention of quitting anytime soon. In addition, while he's currently not drinking, he hasn't ruled out the possibility of indulging in moderation. The rocker's approach to his lifestyle is evident in his remark, 'So, yeah, it's only a ton of heroin a day now,' a humorous quip that reflects his laid-back attitude towards life.
As Richards navigates this new chapter in his life, he's also embracing his role as a grandparent and great-grandparent. With seven grandchildren and a newly born great-grandchild, he's finding joy in spending time with his loved ones. The 'Satisfaction' hitmaker has described himself as a 'fantastic' grandparent, and his approach to grandfathering involves letting the kids hang out with him for as long as possible before handing them back to their parents. Richards is clearly relishing this new phase of his life, and his love for his family is evident in the way he talks about his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Richards' ability to not dwell on his age is a testament to his carefree spirit and his determination to live life on his own terms. While he acknowledges that his age does cross his mind occasionally, he's not one to get bogged down by it. Instead, he's focused on the present and the future, looking forward to seeing where life takes him. As he embarks on this new journey, Richards is finding solace in the company of his family and the music that has been his passion for decades. With a career spanning over five decades, Keith Richards is an icon in the music industry, and his story serves as a reminder that it's never too late to make positive changes and live life to the fullest.
Keith Richards quit smoking six years ago, citing that the habit had started to feel 'childish' to him.
The 82-year-old musician still smokes 'a lot of' marijuana and drinks in moderation.
Richards has seven grandchildren and a newly born great-grandchild, and he's finding joy in spending time with his loved ones.
The Rolling Stones rocker has described himself as a 'fantastic' grandparent, and his approach to grandfathering involves letting the kids hang out with him for as long as possible.
Despite his advancing age, Richards is focused on the present and the future, looking forward to seeing where life takes him.