Keith Richards

What if one guitar riff could change music forever? Keith Richards did something close to that. Born in 1943 in Dartford, England, Keith became the guitarist and co-founder of The Rolling Stones in the early 1960s. Today we're focusing on the single most important thing about him: his songwriting and guitar work that helped invent the sound of rock 'n' roll.

In the 1960s and beyond, Keith and his friend Mick Jagger wrote many songs people still sing. He helped write famous hits like '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction,' 'Jumpin' Jack Flash,' and 'Brown Sugar.' His rough, bluesy riffs — often played on his Fender Telecaster nicknamed 'Micawber' and using open G tuning — made songs instantly recognizable. The Rolling Stones were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

Keith's music taught other musicians how to play catchy riffs, and his style has inspired generations. He recorded and toured for decades, showing that music can last a lifetime. He also wrote a best-selling memoir, 'Life,' and even had a small movie role in the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Next time you hear a cool guitar riff, think of Keith Richards — a tiny spark that helped make rock music roar.