The legendary guitarist says traveling has become the biggest challenge, while the band prepares to release its new album Foreign Tongues on July 10.
After more than six decades of filling stadiums around the world, The Rolling Stones may be entering a new era of live performances. According to guitarist Keith Richards, the iconic rock band is considering stepping away from traditional world tours in favor of residency-style concerts in major cities.
In a recent interview with Uncut Magazine, Richards admitted that extensive touring has become increasingly difficult—not because of performing, but because of the constant travel.
“I don’t know if tours are possible. It’s the travelling that takes it out of you,” Richards said. “But I do see the possibility of us doing a residency somewhere. Wherever it is, London, New York, Paris, anywhere. I’ll play Rome! But I don’t see why they shouldn’t be able to throw some shows together in a new format.”
The comments offer fans a glimpse into how one of rock’s most enduring bands could continue performing live while adapting to the realities of aging and the demands of global travel.
Mick Jagger Still Eager to Perform
Richards’ remarks come shortly after frontman Mick Jagger shared his optimism about returning to the stage. During a recent appearance on BBC Radio 2, Jagger said he “can’t wait” to perform again and hopes the band will tour “as soon as possible,” although he confirmed that no tour is expected to take place this year.
Reports indicate that plans for a 2026 U.K. and European stadium tour were ultimately shelved after Richards was unable to commit to the extensive travel schedule.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding future tours, Richards made it clear that his passion for performing remains as strong as ever.
“It’ll be exciting until something inside me says, ‘That’s that,'” he explained. “I love working with the guys. I mean, what am I gonna do?”
Foreign Tongues Arrives July 10
While the future of touring remains uncertain, fans won’t have to wait long for new music. The Rolling Stones are set to release their 25th studio album, Foreign Tongues, on July 10 through Polydor/Universal Music.
The album was recorded in less than a month at Metropolis Studios in West London under the direction of acclaimed producer Andrew Watt, continuing the creative momentum established by the band’s acclaimed 2023 album Hackney Diamonds.
The project features an impressive lineup of guest musicians, including Paul McCartney, Robert Smith of The Cure, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Steve Winwood. It also includes a special appearance from late drummer Charlie Watts, whose contribution was recorded during one of his final creative sessions with the band before his passing in 2021.
Building on the Success of Hackney Diamonds
Richards described Foreign Tongues as a natural continuation of the band’s previous release.
“The Foreign Tongues album has a continuity from Hackney Diamonds, and it was great to be working in London again, and to have that London vibe around us. It was a month of concentrated punch.”
The album includes the previously released singles “Rough and Twisted” and “In the Stars,” along with a new cover of Amy Winehouse’s classic “You Know I’m No Good.”
The band’s previous album, Hackney Diamonds, marked their first collection of original material in 18 years. It debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and featured the hit single “Angry,” which became The Rolling Stones’ first U.K. Top 40 single since 2005.
A New Chapter for Rock’s Greatest Survivors
Whether through traditional tours or innovative residency performances, The Rolling Stones continue to prove that their commitment to live music remains unwavering. While international stadium tours may become less frequent, Richards’ vision suggests the band is exploring new ways to connect with audiences without sacrificing the energy that has defined their legendary career.
For fans around the world, the possibility of destination residencies could represent a fresh chapter for one of the most influential rock bands in music history—one that keeps the Stones performing while adapting to the changing realities of life on the road.
By Latino System
Photo: ANGELA WEISS/AFP/Getty
