Keith Richards Cancels All Tour Dates In New York City For Next Year: “Sorry NYC, But I Don’t Sing For Commies”
In a shocking turn of events that has both rock fans and political commentators buzzing, legendary Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards announced on Tuesday that he would be canceling all scheduled performances in New York City for the upcoming year. His reasoning, delivered in his unmistakably blunt fashion, was simple and unapologetic: “Sorry NYC, but I don’t sing for commies.”
The statement, posted on Richards’ official social media accounts, instantly went viral. Within hours, the announcement had sparked a flurry of reactions ranging from disbelief and outrage to amusement and admiration. Some fans praised him for “standing up for his beliefs,” while others accused him of turning a routine tour decision into a politically charged stunt.
A Legend’s Sudden Stand
Keith Richards, now in his eighties but still as sharp-tongued as ever, has long been known for his irreverent humor and unpredictable comments. However, even by his standards, this was unexpected. The Rolling Stones icon had originally planned to include three major New York shows as part of his solo tour, which was set to celebrate the 60th anniversary of his music career.
In a live-streamed Q&A later that evening, Richards elaborated in his trademark raspy drawl:
“I love the city, man. I’ve played every club, every dive, every stadium there is. But lately, it’s all rules and no rhythm. You can’t light a cigarette, can’t speak your mind, can’t even play a loud riff without someone complaining. What’s rock ‘n’ roll without a little rebellion?”
Pressed by fans for clarification on his “commies” remark, Richards laughed and waved it off:
“I’m not talking politics, love. I’m talking spirit. New York used to be wild, free, dangerous. Now it’s sanitized. Everyone’s too scared to get a little dirty. That’s not my crowd anymore.”
Backlash and Support Online
Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement. On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #KeithVsNYC trended worldwide. Memes flooded the internet, showing a Photoshopped Richards wielding a guitar like a political protest sign, or jokingly declaring him the new face of “anti-establishment rock.”
Some New York fans weren’t amused.
“I’ve loved Keith my whole life, but this is just nonsense,” wrote one user. “No one asked him to sing for anyone. Just come play the damn guitar.”
Others defended him.
“He’s earned the right to say whatever he wants. Keith’s been through more revolutions than any politician alive,” said another.
Meanwhile, a few observers pointed out that the statement may have been more tongue-in-cheek than serious. “It’s Keith,” wrote one fan forum moderator. “He probably said it after a few drinks and now the internet’s acting like it’s a declaration of war.”
The City Responds
City officials were quick to issue formal responses—some serious, others clearly exasperated. A spokesperson for the New York City Mayor’s Office stated, “We have tremendous respect for Mr. Richards’ contribution to music and culture. While we regret that he won’t be performing here next year, New York remains proud to host artists from around the world—rebellious or otherwise.”
Even the governor’s office got involved when asked about the controversy at a press briefing. The governor smiled and replied:
“Keith Richards has always marched to his own beat. New York will still be here when he’s ready to rock again.”
The owner of the Madison Square Garden, one of the venues originally slated for his tour, was less diplomatic:
“He’s turned down the biggest audience in America over a joke. That’s his loss. The Stones can fill ten nights here anytime they want.”
A Symbolic Gesture or a Serious Move?
Music analysts and pop culture historians have already begun debating what Richards’ move really means. Some interpret it as part of a growing backlash among older artists against what they see as an overly cautious, politically correct entertainment industry.
Dr. Carla Nguyen, a professor of music history at NYU, offered a nuanced take:
“Keith Richards has always represented an older kind of rebellion—one that doesn’t fit neatly into modern political categories. To him, ‘commie’ probably just means anyone trying to tame the chaos of rock ‘n’ roll. His statement is less about ideology and more about frustration with conformity.”
Others see the announcement as part of a larger pattern of celebrity provocation. “In today’s social media age, every wild statement becomes a marketing opportunity,” said one industry insider. “Don’t be surprised if he adds new dates in Texas or Florida next week.”
What’s Next for Keith Richards?
Despite the uproar, ticket sales for the rest of Richards’ tour have reportedly spiked by 30% since the announcement. Promoters in Nashville, Austin, and Miami say they’re already preparing for record turnouts. “It’s the most Keith thing ever,” laughed one venue manager. “Cancel one city, and the whole country buys tickets out of curiosity.”
As for Richards himself, he seems amused by the chaos. In a follow-up post, he shared an old photo of himself smoking on stage with the caption:
“Still standing. Still strumming. Still not singing for commies.”
Whether he’s serious or simply having a bit of fun, one thing is certain: even after six decades, Keith Richards still knows how to start a fire with nothing but six strings and a sentence.
