Watch Keith Richards Perform ‘Gimme Shelter’ in Tribute to Merry Clayton

Keith Richards took time out from promoting his new Crosseyed Heart LP to help support a good cause last night, appearing onstage at the Apollo Theater to play at this year's A Great Night in Harlem benefit concert and pay tribute to vocalist Merry Clayton with a performance of the Rolling Stones classic "Gimme Shelter."

Rolling Stone posted footage from Richards' appearance, which starts with the guitarist strolling out onstage after a standing ovation for Clayton, who recently revealed she underwent a double amputation after sustaining serious injuries in a 2014 car accident. "Now you know how many friends you got, honey," said Richards, telling the audience he wanted to "kick it off with the one we worked together on."

Clayton's vocals on "Gimme Shelter" — which she recorded after being woken in the middle of the night — added a crucial component to the song, and remain a highlight of a distinguished career that she's vowed to continue in spite of her injury. Although not present at the event, Clayton appeared on video to accept the first annual Clark and Gwen Terry Courage Award from the Jazz Foundation of America.

Richards, who went on to play the Stones song "Happy" (which you can watch below), was just one member of a bill assembled to honor jazz pioneer Sonny Rollins, who received a lifetime achievement award at the show, and was on hand to witness performances from Steely Dan's Donald Fagen and a host of jazz greats who paid tribute to Rollins' classic discography while helping raise funds for medical care and other forms of assistance going to jazz and blues musicians in need.

Watch Keith Richards Perform 'Happy'

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