Keith Richards Honored with Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence
In a unique celebration that swapped the vibrant atmosphere of a stadium for the serene ambiance of a library, Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards was recently honored with a new award that recognizes individuals for their creativity, passion, and generosity in Connecticut. Richards, who has been a British icon in the world of rock music for decades, received the prestigious Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence during a ceremony held at the Westport Library. The event was attended by dozens of admirers and officials, including Governor Ned Lamont, who is an avid fan of the Rolling Stones. Richards, now 81 years old, was presented with a custom-designed medallion and a heartfelt round of applause, marking a special moment in his illustrious career.
A Life in Connecticut: Family, Music, and Philanthropy
Richards, who has maintained a home in Connecticut since 1985, shared his appreciation for the state and its community during the ceremony. He revealed that his decision to move from New York City to the picturesque town of Weston was primarily to provide his children with a more peaceful and natural environment. “The family’s had a great life,” he remarked. “The kids grew up great and incredibly happy about everything.” Richards and his wife, model and actress Patti Hansen, have two adult children together, while he also has two children from his previous marriage to Anita Pallenberg. Tragically, their third child, Tara, passed away in 1976 due to sudden infant death syndrome.
Keith Richards: A Pillar of the Community
Governor Ned Lamont praised Richards not only for his contributions to music but also for his dedication to local philanthropy. Richards has been a steadfast supporter of several Connecticut-based organizations that serve individuals with disabilities, including SPHERE, an education, recreation, and arts group, and The Prospector Theater, which operates both a movie theater and an online popcorn business. “Keith Richards is an amazing member of our community, and we’re so proud that he’s here,” Lamont said. “And I’m so proud for the opportunity to give him this award in excellence.” The governor also added a touch of humor by referring to Richards as one of his “top political advisers” through his music, citing songs like “Start Me Up” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” as inspirations for his policies.
A Unique Medallion and a Special Gift
The medallion awarded to Richards was custom-designed by Danny Carvalho, a Connecticut state trooper, and featured a ribbon created by Justin Haynes, a fashion designer from Enfield. Richards, known for his iconic style and rebellious past, seemed to appreciate the thoughtful design of the award. Additionally, William Harmer, the executive director of the Westport Library, presented Richards with a Westport Library card, joking that it was a more prestigious honor than a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame or a personal parking space in Times Square. Richards, expressing his admiration for libraries, described them as a “great and publicly owned equalizer in society.”
The Legacy of Keith Richards
Widely regarded as one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time, Keith Richards is best known as a founding member of the Rolling Stones, which was formed in 1962. The band, originally a blues group, rose to fame with original songs like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” “Gimme Shelter,” and “Sympathy for the Devil.” Richards has also explored solo projects and collaborations with other artists, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. His influence extends beyond music, as he has become a cultural icon and a symbol of rock ‘n’ roll.
Conclusion: A Heartfelt Thank You
In his acceptance speech, Richards expressed his gratitude to Connecticut and its people, calling the state a “great place” where he has lived for over 40 years. “You kind of get lost for words with something like this around your neck,” he said, referring to the medallion. “All I gotta say is, you know, I’ve been here for 40 years, and it’s been a great place for me.” Richards also emphasized the importance of literature and libraries, stating, “Without our books and without knowing things, and without their special meaning — this is not movies. This is not somebody drawing you images or anything. This is a book, and you have the movie in your head. And it’s very important that we keep our books unburnt.” The Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence is a fitting tribute to Richards’ contributions to both music and his community, celebrating his enduring legacy as a true legend in every sense of the word.
