TRIBUTES TO THE LEGENDARY DRUMMER
CHARLIE WATTS
A FOND FAREWELL TO THE ‘ROCK’ BEHIND THE ROLLING STONES
Charlie Watts poses in his typical suited-and-booted style in 1989 (above). “The perfect gentleman, as sharp in his manner of dress as he was on the drums,” said The Who frontman Roger Daltrey as he joined musicians lining up to honour the artist
1941-2021
His impeccable rhythm provided the heartbeat for scores of Rolling Stones hits for the best part of six decades, but sadly last Tuesday the music stopped for the legendary drummer Charlie Watts, who died at the age of 80.
A statement released by his publicist Bernard Doherty said: “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.”
The matchless musician’s death came a few weeks after he revealed he would be unable to join the Stones on their rescheduled US No Filter Tour – due to kick off in St Louis in September – as he needed to rest and recuperate after an unspecified medical procedure.
Charlie, who was successfully treated for throat cancer in 2004, quipped: “For once, my timing’s a bit off.”
TALENTED ARTIST
Tributes poured in for the much-loved drummer, led by his Rolling Stones bandmates Sir Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood.
Taking to social media, there were no words from Sir Mick or guitarist Keith, but their pictures on Instagram spoke volumes.
Frontman Mick, 78, shared an uplifting photo of Charlie beaming behind his drums, while 77-year-old Keith’s poignantly showed his drum kit featuring a “Closed” sign.
Guitarist Ronnie, 74, posted a snap of himself with the famously dapper drummer, writing alongside it: “I love you my fellow Gemini – I will dearly miss you – you are the best.”
THE STONES’ OUTPOURING OF LOVE FOR THEIR LATE BANDMATE