Keith Richards will be honored with CT's first Governor's Award of Excellence for his contributions to music and local communities.
Patch Staff
WESTON, CT — Gov. Ned Lamont announced that legendary guitarist and Weston residents' favorite neighbor, Keith Richards, will be the first recipient of the Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence.
The new honor recognizes people who exemplify the state’s core values of creativity, resourcefulness, passion, and generosity, according to news release from the Governor's Office Monday.
Richards, a founding member of the Rolling Stones, will receive the award during a private ceremony at The Westport Library on March 5 at 4 p.m. The event is invitation-only due to space limitations, and the library will be closed from 3 to 6 p.m. for the occasion.
The award, established in 2025, includes a custom-designed medallion crafted by Connecticut State Trooper Danny Carvalho and produced by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, with a ribbon designed by Enfield-based fashion designer Justin Haynes. Gov. Lamont will also present Richards with a proclamation granting him the "Key to the State."
"Keith Richards is one of the most influential musicians of all time and a dedicated supporter of the arts, education, and community causes here in Connecticut," Lamont said. "This award was created to honor those who have made a lasting impact, and Keith truly embodies those values."
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A Connecticut resident since 1985, Richards is being recognized for his contributions to local organizations, including SPHERE, which supports adults with disabilities, and The Prospector Theater, which provides inclusive employment opportunities. He has also been a vocal advocate for arts, education, and accessibility initiatives throughout the state.
"When you are growing up, there are two institutional places that affect you most powerfully: the church, which belongs to God, and the public library, which belongs to you," Richards said in a statement.
The Westport Library’s Executive Director Bill Harmer called the honor “a momentous occasion” and said the library is proud to celebrate Richards’ impact on culture and music history.
Richards has been a defining force in rock music for more than seven decades. His songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger is one of the most celebrated in music history, producing hits like "Jumpin’ Jack Flash," "Satisfaction," "Gimme Shelter," and "Start Me Up." In addition to his work with the Rolling Stones, he has released several solo albums, acted in films including "Pirates of the Caribbean," and published two books, including his memoir "Life."
Richards was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1993, and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004.