Keith Richards: 'Jagger's ego led to my solo work'

Keith Richards claims he only branched out by himself because Mick Jagger went on an ego trip with his solo work.

The two rockers are half of The Rolling Stones, one of Britain's most famous exports. They've been wowing music fans for over 50 years, but despite massive success haven't always seen eye to eye. When Mick went solo in 1985, Keith wasn't happy but decided to have his own stab at individual fame with his album Talk Is Cheap.

"I only did my records because (Mick) wasn't working with us," Keith sighed to America's GQ. "(Mick's solo work) had something to do with ego. He really had nothing to say. What did he have, two albums? She's the Boss and Primitive Cool?"

Mick also released Wandering Spirit and Goddess in the Doorway, both of which performed well. Keith produced more solo work too, in the form of 1992's Main Offender and his recent album Crosseyed Heart.

"For me, I never thought of making records as a way of being famous or making a statement," he insisted. "I just want to make good records with good musicians, to play with the best and learn."

Crosseyed Heart hit shelves in September (15), making the top 10 in charts all over the world. Featuring blues, funk, reggae, rock, and folk influences, the melting pot of sounds has made sure the record stands apart from his Stones style.

"I had enough of the screaming Mimis many years ago," Keith smiled of his more grown up audience. "But it was an interesting period, you've gotta say: 3,000 rabid females trying to tear your clothes off. But I can't handle 3,000 at once.

"I just want to make a good record that will sit there and say, 'This is part of his work.'"