Keith Richards Says John Lennon and George Harrison Could Have Joined The Rolling Stones

Legendary Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards has once again spoken candidly about the band’s long-standing connection with The Beatles, saying that John Lennon and George Harrison could have “fitted perfectly” into the Stones if history had taken a different turn.

In a new interview with The Telegraph, Richards reflected on the 1960s music scene, where both bands dominated the charts and helped shape the sound of a generation. He recalled that despite the media often painting them as rivals, the truth was that both groups shared mutual respect and admiration.

“I don’t think John Lennon would have had much problem fitting into the Stones, or George, if you can imagine that sort of thing happening,” Richards explained. “We were the same generation, and we all loved the same music.”

The guitarist went on to describe the moment The Stones first encountered The Beatles’ work, saying they felt “relieved” to know that another band in England was on the same musical journey.

“When we first heard The Beatles, we were relieved that there was some other band in England on the same track that we were on. And within a few months, that track was the main track.”

From Rivals to Legends

The Rolling Stones and The Beatles are often remembered as the two dominant forces in 1960s British rock. The Beatles became known for their polished songwriting and experimental studio albums, while the Stones built their reputation on raw blues-inspired rock and rebellious energy.

Despite being cast as competitors, many band members maintained close personal friendships. Lennon and McCartney even wrote The Rolling Stones’ early hit I Wanna Be Your Man in 1963, cementing their collaborative spirit.

The Rolling Stones Today

Richards’ comments arrive as The Rolling Stones prepare to release Hackney Diamonds, their first official studio album in 18 years. Anticipation is high, not only because of the band’s historic return but also thanks to a surprise collaboration with Paul McCartney, who plays bass on the track Bite My Head Off.

The new album promises to bridge generations, reminding fans that The Beatles and The Rolling Stones — once seen as rivals — have always been intertwined in the fabric of rock history.