Ronnie Wood believes he’s playing better than ever with the Rolling Stones because he’s totally clean.
Now 10 years teetotal, the guitarist says it’s not only extended his career, but also made the band better.
Ronnie revealed: “I’ve got a new clarity of approach, coming with my sobriety, I think.
“That’s an amazing plus for me, because I can play anything without a drink or dope.
“It’s a wonderful feeling to still feel excited about a show, but I don’t have to reach for false stimulants to get me through, you know?
“I’m still improving and still have ambition, which is a major driving force that still keeps me going.
“Every Stones gig is different and better and changing.”
Ronnie recently revealed how much better Keith Richards was playing too now he’s given up booze, and he reckons it takes “about a year” to get over the fear of performing straight: “You have to have faith and stick in there. It does get better.”
Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood pictured in August 1984 (Image: Lichfield/Getty Images)
During lockdown Ronnie has been using social media to share messages of hope and tips on painting.
But he can’t wait to get back on the road for rescheduled Stones dates because he’s still discovering new things in their extensive catalogue.
He explained: “There comes an even further depth of understanding of songs. It changes all the time. Just to keep up with it and keep grips with it and experiment.
“You still experiment. Amazing new things are coming out, but it’s out of a very focused place.”
Ron, 73, joined the The Stones in 1975 and yet Mick and Keef have only recently stopped calling him the “new boy”.
Ron laughed: “Yeah, well they’ve given that up now – finally.
“There’s a new camaraderie now. ‘Oh well, I suppose he really is one of us after all’.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
