Charlie Watts, Drummer for Rolling Stones, Dies At 80

Charlie Watts, drummer for the Rolling Stones for more than 50 years, has died in London Tuesday morning, according to his spokesperson.

The statement from his spokesperson reads, “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 ass 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.”

On august 4, 2021, Charlie Watts withdrew from the Rolling Stones upcoming “No Filter” U.S. tour, to recover from a recent medical procedure. A spokesperson said, “Charlie has had a procedure which was completely successful, but I gather his doctors this week concluded that he now needs proper rest and recuperation. With rehearsals starting in a couple of weeks it’s very disappointing to say the least, but it’s also fair to say no one saw this coming.” Drummer, Steve Jordan is filling in for the tour, which starts September 26 in St. Louis.

Even though Watts had throat cancer in 2004 and recovered, he was healthy throughout his entire career with the Rolling Stones.

Recognized as one of the great rock drummers of all time, Charlie Watts was the backbone of the Rolling Stones. Often revered as a premiere rock drummer, he joined the band in 1963 and remained for over 50 years. Watts was recognized as the perfect complement for Jagger, Richards and the rest of the band, with tight rhythms and an understated jazz-infused swinging style.

Dignified and reserved, Charles Robert Watts was born in London June 2, 1941. He discovered jazz when he was 12 and became a fan of Duke Ellington, Miles Davis and Charles Mingus. He studied to be a graphic artist and worked for a London advertising agency. After joining the Rolling Stones in 1963, he contributed to the design of the band’s stage sets, merchandise and album covers.

Elton John tweeted, “A very sad day. Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer. The most stylish of me, and such brilliant company. My deepest condolences to Shirley, Seraphina, and Charlotte. And of course, The Rolling Stones.