Tributes have been pouring in for music legend Charlie Watts, The Rolling Stones drummer tragically lost his life on Tuesday.
It was announced this week that the iconic musician passed away peacefully at a London hospital at the age of 80 whilst surrounded by his family. The news came just three weeks after it was announced that Watts would not be playing with the band on their US tour No Filter due to health issues. The famed drummer’s health issues were reported after an emergency medical procedure, the band had expected the issue to be temporary and that he would later re-join them.
No official cause of death has been announced, a spokesperson for Watt’s released the following statement announcing the musician’s tragic passing. “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts. He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family, Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of The Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation. We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time.”
Watts was often regarded as the cool member of the Rolling Stones and described as universally likeable by all. Watts was a long-standing member of the band and was the Rolling Stones’ drummer for all 30 albums and tours. Watts’ talent can be heard on celebrated albums such as the 1968 release Beggars Banquet and the band’s most recent release Blue & Lonesome released in 2016. The English musician made his first appearance in the stones in February 1963 and remained a member until his death. Along with other musical icons such as Sir Paul McCartney and Elton John, Watts’ bandmates have been posting heart-warming tributes to their fallen band member and friend.
Jagger took to his Instagram to share a simple and emotional post that features a photo of Watts behind a drum set, the post does not include a caption but features an array of comments leaving their condolences.
Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards also shared a simple and stirring post on Instagram, showing an empty drum set with a hanging sign which states Closed.
Fellow bandmate Ronnie Wood also took to Instagram to share the sad news to fans, the post features Wood and Watts posed in sharp suits with a caption expressing his sadness.
Sir Paul McCartney from fellow British band Beatles, shared an emotional video on Twitter in tribute to Watts.
Paul on Charlie Watts ❤️ pic.twitter.com/rn2elK6cFE
— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 24, 2021
Born on 2nd June 1941 Watts is best known for his time as the Rolling Stones’ drummer, but the multi-talented artist also held a passion for Jazz. Watts also performed with his own band called the Charlie Watts Quintet whilst touring and recording with the Rolling Stones. A man of multiple talents, Watts originally sought a career in graphic design and was trained within the field, but his love for Jazz pulled him towards his passion for music and the drummer joined the band Blues Incorporated. Within his performances at various rhythm and blues bars and clubs across London Watts would meet future bandmates Jagger, Richards and Jones. Watts is often regarded as one of the greatest drummers of time, he can be found within various top 100 lists complied by multiple publications and institutions. As well as his musical talent Watts was repeatedly recognised for his fashion prowess, The Daily Telegraph has included the drummer within their list of the World’s Best Dressed Men. Fashion bible Vanity has also confirmed his firm standing in fashion, he was included in the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame List.
In a further emotional tribute, The Rolling Stones official website has removed all of its content. The site now features a black screen with a photo of Watts prominently centre in celebration of his influence, passion and enduring legacy.
