Bobby Keys, whose saxophone playing can be heard on songs by the Rolling Stones, John Lennon and Eric Clapton, has died. He was 70 years old.
Michael Webb, a keyboardist who worked with Keys, told the Associated Press that Keys died today following a battle with a long illness.
Keys can be heard on several classic Stones songs, including “Brown Sugar” and “Live With Me.” However, as Rolling Stone points out, his music career goes all the way back to Buddy Holly, who he met as a teen and even briefly played with in Texas.
during the 1960s, Keys backed Bobby Vee and toured on Dick Clark’s Caravan of Stars. He first met the Stones in San Antonio in 1964 and was a bit skeptical. But after recording with Mick Jagger during a Delaney and Bonnie session, Keys began to work more with them. His work can be heard on their legendary late ‘60s and early ‘70s albums, including Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main Street.
He became very close friends with Keith Richards, who shared a handwritten note on Facebook. The group also posted a joint statement.
“The Rolling Stones are devastated by the loss of their very dear friend and legendary saxophone player, Bobby Keys,” the statement reads. “Bobby made a unique musical contribution to the band since the 1960s. He will be greatly missed.”
Keys toured with the group earlier this year, but had to pull out due to his health.