Long time Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts died August 24, 2021 in a London hospital at the age of 80. An exact cause of death was not revealed, but fellow Stones members noted that Watts was surrounded by family at the time of his death.
Watts had announced earliers that he would not be a part of the upcoming Rolling Stones tour due to an undisclosed health issue.
The dapperly attired Watts joined The Stones in 1963 and rose to listed with Keith Moon and Ginger Bakes as one of the premiere drummers in rock and roll. A part of The Stones for nearly 60 years, only lead singer Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards have been with the band longer.
Prior to joining the Rolling Stones, Watts performed with Alexis Korner’s Blues Incorporated.
A jazz drummer before coming to the Rolling Stones, Watts continued to perform jazz whenever he could including his own band and numerous side projects.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOH6IlZEa-w
While most rockers love the spotlight and strutting their stuff on solos, Watts preferred to remain in the background; holding down the rhythm section. But Watts shined in a different kind of spotlight – stage designer and album cover artist. He was not fond of being chased down the street by screaming female fans.
Watts did not driver, but loved collecting cars and having a horse farm. Watts disliked leaving home; he noted that he loved what he did but couldn’t wait until he got back home to his family again.
He was born Charles Robert Watts on June 2, 1941 in Neasden, England; the son of a truck driver. Loving the glitter and lights, Watts began playing the drums when he was just eight years old. He taught himself to play by playing along with jazz records.
He was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2004, but beat the disease.
Watts married Shirley Ann Sheperd in 1964; over 50 years later, she survives him. The couple had a daughter Seraphina who also survives him; along with granddaughter Charlotte and sister Linda.
feature photo credit: Charlie Watts on drums The ABC & D of Boogie Woogie (2010).jpg