Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont announced today, March 3, that Rolling Stones guitarist and longtime state resident Keith Richards will be the first recipient of the Connecticut Governor's Award of Excellence, according to his office.
The award, established in 2025, celebrates "Connecticut residents who epitomize the state's core values of creativity, resourcefulness, passion, dynamism, and generosity," according to a statement. "The award consists of a custom-designed medallion -- crafted by Connecticut State Trooper Danny Carvalho and manufactured by the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology -- along with a ribbon designed and sewn by Enfield-based fashion designer Justin Haynes."
Lamont will also present Richards with a proclamation offering him a "Key to the State," according to a statement.
"Connecticut has long been home to some of the world's most innovative minds, boldest artists, and most generous hearts," Lamont said. "This award was created to honor those whose creativity, resourcefulness, and passion have made a lasting impact on our state and beyond. Keith Richards is the epitome of these values -- not only as one of the most influential musicians of all time but as a dedicated supporter of the arts, education, and community causes right here in Connecticut."
The honor will be presented at The Westport Library on Wednesday, March 5 at 4 p.m., according to a statement. The library will be closed from 3 to 6 p.m. for the ceremony.
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"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. "The public library is the great equalizer."
"The Westport Library is beyond thrilled to host this momentous occasion honoring Keith Richards, a true cultural icon whose influence transcends generations," Bill Harmer, executive director of The Westport Library, said. "As a library that celebrates creativity, storytelling, and the transformative power of the arts, we couldn't imagine a more fitting place for this historic event. Keith's legacy is woven into the fabric of music history, and we are honored to provide the stage where Connecticut will recognize his immeasurable contributions. This is not just a celebration of an artist, but of a life lived boldly, authentically, and with an undeniable passion for inspiring others."
Richards is regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in history, according to a statement. As a founding member of the Rolling Stones, his career dates back over seven decades, with signature songs like "Jumpin' Jack Flash," "Satisfaction," "Ruby Tuesday," "Start Me Up," and "Happy."
Richards has also found success as a solo artist, and has played both a soldier in the 1969 film "Man on Horseback" and himself on "The Simpsons" in 2002, according to a release. Additionally, he starred as the father of Jack Sparrow in two "Pirates of the Caribbean" films, penned two books, and released a Netflix documentary on himself. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.