**Keith Richards and Howard Stern Reflect on Rolling Stones’ ‘Satisfaction,’ and Charlie Watts’ Legacy**
In a recent episode of Howard Stern’s radio show, legendary guitarist Keith Richards joined the host for a candid conversation about the Rolling Stones’ iconic track “Satisfaction” and the enduring legacy of the band’s late drummer, Charlie Watts.
Richards, who has been a cornerstone of the Stones’ sound since their inception, reminisced about the creation of “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” which was released in 1965. The song, widely regarded as one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll tracks of all time, was a product of Richards’ improvisational genius. “It came out of a riff I was playing on my guitar,” Richards explained. “I just hit that riff and it took off from there. It was magic.”
Stern, known for his in-depth interviews, probed deeper into Richards’ memories of the era and the impact of the song. Richards revealed that the track was initially met with some skepticism. “We didn’t know it would become what it did. We were just trying to make some noise and have a good time,” he said with characteristic humility.
The conversation then shifted to Charlie Watts, who passed away in August 2021. Richards paid a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and bandmate. “Charlie was the heartbeat of the band. His style, his timing, it was all so uniquely him,” Richards said. He described Watts as a constant and grounding force within the chaotic world of rock ‘n’ roll. “He never let the craziness get to him. He was always just Charlie, and that’s what made him so special.”
Richards also touched on how Watts’ passing has left a void in the band. “It’s been tough without him,” he admitted. “But we carry on in his spirit. He would have wanted us to.”
The interview, which was a blend of nostalgia and reflection, offered fans a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of rock’s most enduring bands and highlighted the profound influence Watts had on its music and legacy.
