In the photo from November 27, 1981, Keith Richards, the legendary Rolling Stones guitarist, is captured live on stage in Syracuse, New York. Shot by photographer Graham Wiltshire for Redferns, this image is emblematic of Richards’ rebellious,
rock-and-roll persona during the band’s American tour. Known for his signature riffs, unrelenting energy, and distinctive style, Richards takes center stage with his guitar, exuding a blend of passion and grit that has made him a quintessential icon in rock history.
The 1981 tour was significant for the Stones, coinciding with the release of Tattoo You, an album that featured hits like “Start Me Up” and “Waiting on a Friend.” Onstage, Richards would often be seen in his typical attire of sleeveless shirts, headbands, and layers of scarves and jewelry, with his hair in a shaggy, untamed style. In Wiltshire’s photo, Richards’ expression and pose reveal his complete immersion in the music, showcasing his raw talent and the charisma that has electrified audiences for decades.
This performance, like many others during the Stones’ 1981 tour, is remembered as a high-energy, rock extravaganza that underscored the band’s lasting impact on the genre. Wiltshire’s photography captures not only Richards’ intensity but also the charged atmosphere of a Stones concert, an environment where fans came to experience music that was bold, defiant, and visceral. For many fans, Richards represented the spirit of rock and roll, pushing boundaries and embodying a lifestyle that was as edgy as it was influential. This photograph serves as a snapshot of a moment in music history, immortalizing Keith Richards at the height of his career.
