Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died. No cause of death was revealed, however, a spokesperson revealed the 80-year-old drummer died in London on Tuesday (24th) morning. Earlier this month, Watts was forced to sit out from the group’s upcoming U.S. tour due to needing time to recover from a recent “successful” medical procedure.
The band 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.
Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also 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 joined the iconic group in 1963 as he remained with the legendary act for over fifty years.
— The Rolling Stones (@RollingStones) August 24, 2021
I’m just shocked to hear about Charlie Watts. I don’t know what to say, I feel terrible for Charlie’s family. Charlie was a great drummer and I loved the Stones music, they made great records. Love & Mercy. pic.twitter.com/C4q2zXvVKo
— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) August 24, 2021
From Keith Richard’s “Life” autobiography.
Don’t mess with Charlie Watts. pic.twitter.com/PnLI0RqAln— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) August 24, 2021
Drummers are the most ensnared individuals. Though they are loudest, they are the last to be heard. They have insecurities due to the fact that everyone has their back turned on them. Herein lies the band’s secret; there is no greatness- without a great drummer. RIP Charlie Watts pic.twitter.com/sAcE7SYiBY
— Perry Farrell (@perryfarrell) August 24, 2021
“I wanted to play drums because I fell in love with the glitter and the lights, but it wasn’t about adulation. It was being up there playing” – Charlie Watts pic.twitter.com/c4l7NTz4jo
— Kenneth Cole (@kennethcolereal) August 24, 2021
#God bless Charlie Watts we’re going to miss you man peace and love to the family Ringo 😎✌️🌟❤️🌈🎶☮️ pic.twitter.com/3tSFg7EMQG
— #RingoStarr (@ringostarrmusic) August 24, 2021
“Charlie Watts is one of the greatest drummers the damn world is ever gonna see.”
– Keith Richards
1941-2021. Rest in peace Charlie. pic.twitter.com/mZhzkY1Hb8
— Rough Trade (@RoughTrade) August 24, 2021
R.I.P. Charlie Watts. pic.twitter.com/zADOmkXHld
— Monsters Of Rock® (@MonstersOfRock) August 24, 2021
There goes a hero. 🖤
Dear Charlie Watts. What a legend. Sad to see him go. pic.twitter.com/jYmEJlFnZ7— Garbage (@garbage) August 24, 2021
RIP Charlie Watts https://t.co/2iWBy6aNyV
— KISS (@kiss) August 24, 2021
Charlie Watts, the Rolling Stones Drummer and Inimitable Backbone, Dead at 80 – Rolling Stone https://t.co/Xh66nMFTiI
— Eddie Trunk (@EddieTrunk) August 24, 2021
There are legends and then next-level legends.
Travel well, Charlie Watts…#CharlieWattshttps://t.co/o740EZwTfE
— Jeremy Wagner (@JeremyXWagner) August 24, 2021
Very very sad news!
Charlie Watts was one of my big inspirations in the early years and still is today! He has inspired the whole planet for so many years. Rest in peace and thank you so much for all the inspiration you have given us drummers around the world! pic.twitter.com/e1THhpJBLk
— Mikkey Dee (@themikkeydee) August 24, 2021
Our thoughts go out to Watts’ family and friends during this difficult time.
