Appearing in a building of books instead of a stadium with amps, Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards was honored Wednesday with a new award that recognizes Connecticut residents for their creativity,

When Ned Lamont was a young boy, he learned about rock music by listening to the Rolling Stones. Today, more than 50 years later, Lamont is governor of Connecticut, and he decided that legendary Stones guitarist Keith Richards should be the first recipient of a new honor known as the Governor’s Award of Excellence.

Keith Richards thanked both Gov. Ned Lamont and the state of Connecticut for bestowing him with the first-ever Governor’s Award of Excellence.

Legendary rock guitarist Keith Richards is the first person to be honored with the Governor’s Award of Excellence in Connecticut. The honor celebrates Connecticut residents who epitomize creativity, passion and generosity.

Keith Richards from The Rolling Stones was presented the inaugural Connecticut Governor’s Award of Excellence during a ceremony at the Westport Library on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.