The Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80.
Confirming the sad news earlier today, the legendary musician’s publicist, Bernard Doherty, issued the following statement:
“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.”
Doherty went on to describe Watts as “one of the greatest drummers of his generation” as well as a “cherished husband, father, and grandfather.” “We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members, and close friends is respected at this difficult time.”
Following the announcement music industry icons Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Elton John paid tribute to Watts on social media and the rocker’s bandmates Mick Jagger sharing a Twitter photo of Watts laughing while playing the drums. Keith Richards took a similar route posting an Instagram and Twitter tribute with “closed” shop sign hanging off a drum kit. The only Stones member to caption an image, Ronnie Wood posted a photo of himself and Watts dressed in a smart outfit saying “I love you my fellow Gemini – I will dearly miss you – you are the best,” along with praying hands, heart and sunshine emojis.
The Who’s Roger Daltrey stated: “Charlie was a truly great drummer, whose musical knowledge of drumming technique, from jazz to the blues, was, I’m sure, the heartbeat that made The Rolling Stones the best rock and roll band in the world.”
Bryan Adams tweeted, “RIP Charlie Watts, one of the greatest rock drummers ever and a real gentleman. Condolences to his family and the band,” and Nile Rodgers wrote, “Rest In Power #CharlieWatts RIP. You are a smooth brother. Thanks for all the great music.”
It was announced earlier this month that Watts would be sitting out of the band’s upcoming U.S. tour to recover from an unspecified medical procedure.
Joining the British rock band in 1963, earlier this month Watts elected to sit out the Stones’ resumed U.S. No Filter Tour as he was recovering from surgery.
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Author: Brad LeBeau
Photo: Gorup de Besanez