The Rolling Stones Saxophonist Bobby Keys Has Died At Age 70

The Rolling Stones saxophonist Bobby Keys has unfortunately passed away at the age of 70. Keys was the longtime saxophonist for The Rolling Stones, and enjoyed a prolific career as a musician, lending his soulful sax to albums of bands like The Who, Eric Clapton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more. He also fronted his own band, Bobby Keys and the Suffering Bastards.

It was announced that Keys was “under the weather” months ago, as he was replaced by Greyboy Allstars horn player Karl Denson on the latest Stones tour. However, his death was confirmed by the Nashville Scene, as his Suffering Bastards bandmate Michael Webb told the Scene that Keys “had been battling cirrhosis and passed away at his home in Franklin (Tennessee) early this morning.”

Keys joined the Stones in the 60’s, playing on all of their albums from 1969-1974, and joining the band full time in 1980. Live for Live Music sends our support to Keys’ loved ones through this difficult time.