| Biography | Charlie Watts (2 June 1941-24 August 2021) was an English musician who achieved international fame as the drummer of the Rolling Stones from 1963 until his death in 2021. One of the band's core members, Watts, alongside lead vocalist Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards, were the only members of the band to perform on all of their studio albums. Nicknamed "The Wembley Whammer" by Jagger, Watts cited jazz as a major influence on his drumming style.
Originally trained as a graphic artist, Watts developed an interest in jazz at a young age, and joined the band Blues Incorporated. He also started playing drums in London's rhythm and blues clubs, where he met future bandmates Jagger, Richards and Brian Jones. In January 1963, he left Blues Incorporated and joined the Rolling Stones as drummer, while doubling as designer of their record sleeves and tour stages. Watts's first public appearance as a permanent member was in February 1963, and he remained with the group until his death 58 years later. Aside from his career with the Rolling Stones, Watts toured with his own group, the Charlie Watts Quintet, and appeared in London at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club with the Charlie Watts Tentet.
In 1989, Watts was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2004 into the UK Music Hall of Fame with the Rolling Stones, although Watts did not attend the former. He is often regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time. |