Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts, one of the greatest in rock history, has died at the age of 80.
"It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts," a statement from the band said. "He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family ... We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time."
His death comes as the Stones are about to embark on a stadium tour that will begin on Sept. 26 in St. Louis. It was announced in early August that Watts would miss the tour dates to recover from an unspecified medical procedure. The drummer was previously treated for throat cancer in 2004.
“For once my timing has been a little off. I am working hard to get fully fit but I have today accepted on the advice of the experts that this will take a while,” he said in a statement at that time.
His understudy Steve Jordan, who has played with Keith Richards for years, will back the Stones on the tour.
Watts, who got his first drum kit in 1955, had an early interest in jazz and R&B. He joined Richards, Mick Jagger and Brian Jones in the Stones in January 1963, and is one of three members (with Jagger and Richards) to perform on every Stones album. He also designed the band’s album art.
His death prompted numerous tributes from fellow musicians on social media:
Ringo Starr posted, “God bless Charlie Watts we’re going to miss you man peace and love to the family.”
Elton John wrote, “A very sad day. Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer. The most stylish of men, and such brilliant company. My deepest condolences to Shirley, Seraphina and Charlotte. And of course, The Rolling Stones.”
From Robbie Robertson of The Band: “Charlie’s drumming is powerful and unique. His approach is entirely his own and helped shape the sound of rock and roll. Blessings Charlie Watts.”
Paul Stanley of Kiss said, “AWFUL NEWS. One of the true timeless icons and the backbone of the Stones. Hard to fathom the loss. So very sad.”
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