Topline
Charlie Watts, long-time drummer of the legendary rock band The Rolling Stones has died at 80, his publicist announced Tuesday.
Charlie Watts (l), Mick Jagger(c), and Keith Richards are at London Airport... [+] ready for a three-week tour of America. Corbis via Getty Images
The Key Facts
According to Bernard Doherty, Watts, who was a member of The Rolling Stones for over 50 years, died peacefully in a London hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. Doherty didn't specify the cause of his death but Watts had undergone a medical procedure in June for an unspecified condition. He was scheduled to miss the No Filter tour across North America. Watts' replacement was announced with drummer Steve Jordan earlier in the month. A spokesperson for Watts stated that his procedure was successful but that he needed to rest and recuperate. Watts was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2004. He had previously had two surgeries. Other music icons, such as his counterparts in The Beatles, Ringo Stern, and Sir Elton John, paid their respects to Watts' passing.
Important Quote
Charlie was loved by his family as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and, in addition, he was one of the best drummers of his generation. Doherty stated that Charlie was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.
Important Background
Watts was a member since 1963 of The Rolling Stones. He met his fellow bandmates Mick Jagger and Brian Jones at a London rhythm and blues club. Watts, heavily influenced by jazz music, was a central part of the band's sound and is widely regarded as one of the best drummers of all times. Later, he toured with his own band, the Charlie Watts Quintent. He performed his last concert in Miami with The Rolling Stones two years ago. However, he also participated in a livestream along with the rest of band members early in the coronavirus epidemic.
Surprising Fact
Watts, along with Richards and Jagger, was the only member to appear on every studio album.
