Bobby Keys, Rolling Stones Saxophonist, Has Died

Bobby Keys, the longtime saxophonist for the Rolling Stones, has died, as The Guardian reports. The cause of death is not yet known. Earlier this year, Keys left the band before a string of tour dates, citing poor health. 

In a statement, the Stones said, “The Rolling Stones are devastated by the loss of their very dear friend and legendary saxophone player, Bobby Keys. Bobby made a unique musical contribution to the band since the 1960s. He will be greatly missed.” Keith Richards added, “I have lost the largest pal in the world and I can’t express the sense of sadness I feel although Bobby would tell me to cheer up. My condolences to all that knew him and his love of music.” (Richards’ autobiography, Life, devotes a significant amount of space to his relationship with Keys.)

Keys, a native of Texas, played with Buddy Holly and Bobby Vee as a teenager. He began his association with the Rolling Stones in the ’60s, lending his saxophone to songs such as “Brown Sugar” and classic albums such as 1969′s Let It Bleed, 1971′s Sticky Fingers, and 1972′s Exile on Main Street. 

Aside from the Stones, Keys also played on records by George Harrison, John Lennon, Eric Clapton, and many others.

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