The Rolling Stones icon and drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80, and rock stars and fans alike have been paying tribute to someone who was one of the most famous drummers in the world.
The sad death came after Charlie missed his first tour ever, since joining the band in 1963.
Rock and roll royalty including Sir Paul McCartney, Elton John, Ringo Starr and more have been paying tribute.
His London publicist Bernard Doherty confirmed the news in a statement to the PA news agency.
The statement reads: “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.”
(Image: Popperfoto via Getty Images)
Charlie was “a cherished husband, father and grandfather” as well as being “one of the greatest drummers of his generation”.
The statement continued: “We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time.”
Tributes have been pouring in for the drummer.
(Image: Popperfoto via Getty Images)
Paul McCartney shared his thoughts about Charlie on his Twitter page.
“So sad to hear about Charlie Watts, the Stones drummer, dying,” he began.
“He was a lovely guy. I knew he was ill but I didn’t know he was this ill. Lots of love to his family, his wife and kids and extended family.
“Condolences to the Stones, it’s a huge blow to them, because Charlie was a rock,” he said.
“As steady as a rock! A fantastic drummer. Love you Charlie, I always loved you, beautiful man. Great condolences and sympathies to his family” finished The Beatles legend in the emotional video.
It comes weeks after Charlie was forced to pull out of the band’s No Filter tour.
He was forced to undergo emergency surgery in London.
(Image: Getty Images)
According to reports he underwent a ‘successful procedure’ in London after a routine check-up highlighted a problem.
It was the first time dedicated Charlie missed a tour since 1963, when he joined Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Brian Jones in the new band.
He joked at the time the announcement was made: “For once, my timing has been a little off.”
(Image: Popperfoto/Getty Images)
Following his announcement he wouldn’t be joining the tour, a spokesman for the band said it was “disappointing to say the least” but added “it’s also fair to say no one saw this coming”.
Long-time friend of the band Steve Jordan stepped in to replace Charlie for the tour.
Charlie was previously treated for throat cancer in 2004.
Paul McCartney wasn’t the only star paying tribute.
Chic legend Nile Rodgers expressed his sadness: “Rest in Power Charlie Watts RIP. You are a smooth brother. Thanks for all the great music.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Whitesnake’s David Coverdale added: “A very fine, gifted man… anchoring one of the very finest rock bands in history.”
He continued: “Another beautiful soul. Thank you, Charlie.”
Dave Davies of The Kinks also paid tribute: “In total shock, Charlie Watts was a lovely guy. He will be sorely missed. Deepest sympathy to his wife, the band and all his family and friends.”
(Image: Mirrorpix via Getty Images)
Dave recalled: “I knew him a bit, I used to meet him on the train when I used to go to Devon years and years ago. He was a great drummer and a great guy, a one off. Sorry Charlie.”
Sheryl Crow said sadly: “A hero is gone. No words. A huge gaping hole in the universe. RIP Charlie Watts.”
Lol Tolhurst, a founding member of The Cure said: “All of my hi hat technique I owe to Charlie. Thank you and RIP Charlie Watts.”
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Paul Stanley of KISS expressed his shock: “Awful news! One of the true timeless icons and the backbone of the Stones. Hard to fathom the loss. So very sad.”
Bryan Adams added to the chorus of tributes: “RIP Charlie Watts, one of the greatest rock drummers ever and a real gentleman. Condolences to his family and the band.”
Elton John said: “A very sad day. Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer. The most stylish of men and such brilliant company.”
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
The star continued: “My deepest condolences to Shirley, Seraphina, and Charlotte, and of course The Rolling Stones.”
Rage Against The Machine’s Tom Morello said: “Rock n roll would not be rock n roll without the rhythm, the style, the vibe of this incredible musician.”
He added: “One of the greatest and most important architects of the music we love.”
The Beatles legend Ringo Starr said: “God bless Charlie Watts, we’re going to miss you man. Peace and love to the family.”
(Image: Getty Images)
The iconic Joan Jett added: “Charlie Watts was the most elegant and dignified drummer in rock and roll. He played exactly what was needed – no more – no less. He is one of a kind.”
The Beach Boys Brian Wilson chimed in: “I’m just shocked to hear about Charlie Watts. I just don’t know what to say. I feel terrible for Charlie’s family. Charlie was a great drummer and I loved the Stones music.”
Fans of the band are paying tribute to Charlie on social media.
(Image: Getty Images)
“Oh damn. RIP Charlie Watts. So lucky I once for to meet him jut to talk jazz, his true love,” recalled one.
Another added: “Such sad news. Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts died. I have seen him like a 100 times in concert. I just can’t believe it…”
“I always say we overuse the word ‘legend’ but it is most fitting for Charlie Watts. May he RIP” said another fan.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
