logo Tue, 24 Dec 2024 00:55:21 GMT

Life


Synopsis


Once-in-a-generation memoir of a rock legend - the No. 1 SUNDAY TIMES bestseller.

'Electrifying' New York Times

'A masterpiece' The Word

'Funny, poignant, brutally honest' Sunday Telegraph

With the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards created the riffs, the lyrics and the songs that roused the world, and over four decades he lived the original rock and roll life: taking the chances he wanted, speaking his mind, and making it all work in a way that no one before him had ever done.

Now, at last, the man himself tells us the story of life in the crossfire hurricane. And what a life. Listening obsessively to Chuck Berry and Muddy Waters records as a child in post-war Kent. Learning guitar and forming a band with Mick Jagger and Brian Jones. The Rolling Stones' first fame and success as a bad-boy band. The notorious Redlands drug bust and subsequent series of confrontations with a nervous establishment that led to his enduring image as outlaw and folk hero.

Creating immortal riffs such as the ones in 'Jumping Jack Flash' and 'Street Fighting Man' and 'Honky Tonk Women'. Falling in love with Anita Pallenberg and the death of Brian Jones. Tax exile in France, wildfire tours of the US, 'Exile on Main Street' and 'Some Girls'. Ever increasing fame, isolation and addiction. Falling in love with Patti Hansen. Estrangement from Mick Jagger and subsequent reconciliation. Solo albums and performances with his band the Xpensive Winos. Marriage, family and the road that goes on for ever.

In a voice that is uniquely and intimately his own, with the disarming honesty that has always been his trademark, Keith Richards brings us the essential life story of our times.

Keith Richards, James Fox

Summary

Chapter 1: Wake Up to Your Life

* Emphasizes the importance of living a meaningful life, not just going through the motions.
* Example: A woman in her 50s realizes she's been living on autopilot and decides to pursue her passion for writing.

Chapter 2: Expand Your Imagination

* Encourages readers to explore new possibilities and break out of their comfort zones.
* Example: A retired teacher decides to take up painting classes, discovering a hidden talent.

Chapter 3: Develop Your Passion

* Stresses the importance of identifying and pursuing one's passions.
* Example: A couple in their 60s decides to start a travel blog, sharing their adventures with the world.

Chapter 4: Master the Power of Relationships

* Highlights the crucial role of strong relationships in happiness and well-being.
* Example: A group of friends in their 50s establishes a regular dinner club, providing support and connection.

Chapter 5: Find Your Purpose

* Encourages readers to seek out their life's purpose and live in alignment with it.
* Example: A nurse in her 70s volunteers at a local hospice, finding meaning and fulfillment in her work.

Chapter 6: Embrace the Journey

* Emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process of life, not just the destination.
* Example: A group of hikers in their 60s completes a challenging trail, reveling in the camaraderie and sense of accomplishment along the way.

Chapter 7: Live with Gratitude

* Encourages readers to cultivate an attitude of gratitude and appreciate the blessings in their lives.
* Example: A woman in her 80s starts a gratitude journal, writing down three things she's grateful for each day.

Chapter 8: Be a Lifelong Learner

* Stresses the importance of continuous learning and personal growth.
* Example: A retired professor joins a local book club, expanding his knowledge and connecting with others who share his interests.

Chapter 9: Stay Active and Fit

* Highlights the importance of physical activity for both physical and mental health.
* Example: A group of friends in their 50s starts a weekly fitness class, improving their health and boosting their energy levels.

Chapter 10: Find Your Zen

* Encourages readers to find ways to reduce stress and achieve inner peace.
* Example: A businessman in his 60s takes up yoga, finding it helps him to relax and manage his anxiety.