Legendary rock drummer Charlie Watts died Tuesday at a London hospital at the age of 80.
“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,” a statement released by his London publicist Bernard Doherty said.
“Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also as 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 was among the longest-standing members of the Stones alongside frontman Sir Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards.
The Rolling Stones’ Twitter page called Watts both a “cherished husband, father and grandfather” and “one of the greatest drummers of his generation.”
— The Rolling Stones (@RollingStones) August 24, 2021
Following the news, Twitter tributes poured in from friends and admirers.
#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
RIP Charlie Watts, one of the greatest rock drummers ever and a real gentleman. Condolences to his family and the band. #charliewatts #RollingStones
— Bryan Adams (@bryanadams) August 24, 2021
R.I.P. Charlie Watts https://t.co/xIeebKPCUq
— Carole King (@Carole_King) August 24, 2021
Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts dies aged 80 https://t.co/LUVShR1yaM via @YahooNews AWFUL NEWS. One of the true timeless icons and the backbone of the Stones. Hard to fathom the loss. So very sad.
— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) August 24, 2021
Editorial credit: Everett Collection