By David Waters
Published in Rolling Stones magasine
21-06-2023
In the ever-evolving world of music, surprises and unexpected alliances often emerge. One such revelation comes from the iconic Rolling Stones guitarist, Keith Richards, who has recently expressed his deep appreciation for the body of work by avant-garde artist Yoko Ono and his utmost respect for the modern hip-hop genre. This unlikely pairing of admiration highlights the diverse and boundary-breaking nature of music, as Richards steps out of his rock ‘n’ roll comfort zone to acknowledge and celebrate these two distinct realms of creativity.
Yoko Ono: An Avant-Garde Icon
Yoko Ono, known for her pioneering contributions to the avant-garde art and music scenes, has had a polarizing effect on audiences throughout her career. Best known for her association with John Lennon and her influence on The Beatles’ late works, Ono’s art often challenged conventional norms and pushed the boundaries of what music and art could be. Her experimental and conceptual approach to sound, performance, and visual art has earned her both praise and criticism.
Richards, not typically associated with avant-garde or experimental music, surprised many when he openly praised Ono’s artistic vision. He acknowledged that while her work may not be everyone’s cup of tea, her fearless exploration of the boundaries of expression is something he deeply respects. “Yoko Ono was never afraid to break the rules, and that’s what art is all about,” Richards commented during a recent interview.
Modern Hip-Hop: A Resurgence of Relevance
Keith Richards’ admiration doesn’t stop at Yoko Ono; he also expressed his profound respect for modern hip-hop. The genre, known for its cultural impact and innovation, has resonated with Richards, despite its stark contrast to the rock ‘n’ roll roots he’s celebrated for.
Richards commented on the ever-changing nature of music, noting that hip-hop has brought a fresh perspective and energy to the music landscape. “You gotta recognize the power of hip-hop. It’s the rhythm of the streets today, just like rock ‘n’ roll was back in the day,” he said. This endorsement from a rock legend like Richards further solidifies hip-hop’s place in the contemporary music pantheon.
Breaking Down Boundaries
Keith Richards’ newfound appreciation for Yoko Ono’s artistry and modern hip-hop is a testament to the transcendent power of music. It showcases that even those deeply entrenched in one genre can find inspiration and respect in the unlikeliest of places. Richards’ acknowledgment of Yoko Ono’s avant-garde spirit and hip-hop’s cultural relevance underscores the ever-evolving and boundary-pushing nature of music.
As the music world continues to evolve, it’s important to remember that the most unexpected pairings and endorsements can lead to exciting artistic collaborations and innovations. Keith Richards’ openness to embracing these diverse facets of music is a reminder that great music knows no bounds, and that’s what keeps it timeless and ever-appealing to fans worldwide.