For over five decades, Ronnie Wood has been a driving force behind one of the most iconic rock bands in history — The Rolling Stones. His distinct guitar riffs, soulful playing style, and larger-than-life personality have made him a vital part of the band’s enduring success. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just discovering the magic of The Rolling Stones, there’s no denying that Ronnie Wood’s contributions have shaped the sound and spirit of rock ‘n’ roll as we know it today.

Beyond the music, Wood’s journey has been filled with personal highs and lows — from battling addiction to surviving serious health scares. At 77 years old, he continues to perform with energy and passion, proving that age is just a number when it comes to rocking out on stage.

In this article, we’ll dive into the life and legacy of Ronnie Wood, his role in The Rolling Stones, and what makes him such a unique and enduring figure in the world of rock music.

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Table of Contents

• Ronnie Wood: A Quick Bio
• Ronnie Wood and The Rolling Stones: The Guitarist Who Kept the Fire Alive
• Ronnie Wood's Health Journey: A Recent Procedure
• Ronnie Wood and The Rolling Stones Today: Still Going Strong
• Frequently Asked Questions

Ronnie Wood: A Quick Bio

Born on June 1, 1947, in Middlesex, England, Ronald David Wood grew up in a musical family. His older brothers played music, and he was drawn to the guitar early on. By the time he was a teenager, he was already performing in local bands and showing serious talent.

Before joining The Rolling Stones, Wood was a member of The Birds and later joined Faces, where he played alongside Rod Stewart. His time with Faces helped solidify his reputation as a skilled guitarist and a charismatic performer.

In 1975, he became a full-time member of The Rolling Stones, stepping in after Mick Taylor’s departure. Since then, he’s become one of the band’s most recognizable and beloved members, both for his playing style and his larger-than-life presence.

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Ronnie Wood and The Rolling Stones: The Guitarist Who Kept the Fire Alive

When Ronnie Wood officially joined The Rolling Stones in 1975, many wondered how he’d fit into a band already defined by the legendary partnership of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. But Wood didn’t try to replace Mick Taylor — he brought his own flavor to the band, complementing Richards’ rhythm style with his fluid, bluesy leads.

His first studio album with the band was “Black and Blue” in 1976. Though the record received mixed reviews, Wood quickly became a key part of the live shows. His chemistry with the rest of the band, especially Richards, was undeniable. Together, they developed a dual-guitar approach that became a hallmark of The Rolling Stones’ sound in the late '70s and beyond.

Wood’s contributions can be heard on some of the band’s most iconic tracks from the late '70s and '80s, including “Miss You,” “Start Me Up,” and “Undercover of the Night.” He didn’t just play guitar — he also contributed backing vocals, occasional lead vocals, and even some bass parts.

What Makes His Guitar Style Unique?

Ronnie Wood isn’t known for flashy solos or technical showmanship. Instead, his playing is rooted in blues and rhythm, often locking in with Keith Richards in a way that makes it hard to tell who’s playing what.

• His rhythm work blends seamlessly with Keith Richards’ signature style
• He often uses open tunings, giving his playing a rich, full sound
• His bluesy phrasing and feel-first approach make his solos instantly recognizable

This synergy between Wood and Richards has been a key reason The Rolling Stones have maintained such a consistent sound over the decades.

Ronnie Wood's Health Journey: A Recent Procedure

In early 2025, news broke that 77-year-old Ronnie Wood had undergone a minimally invasive medical procedure on his heart. While details were not fully disclosed, the operation was reported to be successful and aimed at improving his overall quality of life.

Wood has had his share of health scares over the years, including battles with addiction and a cancer diagnosis back in 2010. However, he’s always bounced back, often crediting his wife, Sally, and his determination to stay on stage.

This latest procedure is just another chapter in a life that has been full of ups and downs — and yet, Wood continues to perform with energy and passion. As of 2025, fans are relieved to hear that he’s recovering well and already talking about future tours.

Ronnie Wood and The Rolling Stones Today: Still Going Strong

In 2025, The Rolling Stones are still active, still touring, and still delivering unforgettable performances. And Ronnie Wood remains a core part of the band’s live lineup. Alongside Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Charlie Watts’ legacy, Wood has helped keep the band relevant and electric.

Despite his age, Wood continues to play with the same intensity and flair that fans have loved for decades. He’s embraced modern technology in music production and even dabbles in digital art, showing that he’s not afraid to evolve while staying true to his roots.

His resilience and dedication are inspiring to both younger musicians and longtime fans. At a time when many of his contemporaries have retired or faded from the spotlight, Wood is still very much part of the action — and shows no signs of slowing down.

Learn more about how health and wellness play a role in a long music career on our site.

For more on the intersection of music and lifestyle, check out this page dedicated to health and longevity in the rock world.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Ronnie Wood join The Rolling Stones?

Ronnie Wood officially joined The Rolling Stones in 1975, after Mick Taylor left the band. He had already played on some of the sessions for “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll” and quickly became a full-time member.

Is Ronnie Wood still performing with The Rolling Stones?

Yes, as of 2025, Ronnie Wood is still a member of The Rolling Stones and continues to perform live with the band. Despite health challenges over the years, he remains a vital part of the group’s sound and stage presence.

What health issues has Ronnie Wood faced?

Ronnie Wood has battled lung cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2010, and has also struggled with addiction in the past. In early 2025, he underwent a successful heart procedure described as minimally invasive, aimed at improving his overall well-being.