Tributes have flowed in for The Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts who has sadly passed away peacefully surrounded by family overnight (Australian Time). 

Concerns for Watts’ health arose earlier this year after announcing he was sitting out The Rolling Stones 2021 US No Filter in order to recover from an undisclosed illness.

A spokesperson told Variety “Charlie has had a procedure which was completely Successful, but his doctors this concluded that he now needs proper rest recuperation” The spokesperson went on to say “with rehearsals starting in a couple of weeks it’s very disappointing to say the least, but it’s also fair to say no one saw this coming.”

Watts was often ranked with Keith Moon, Ginger Baker and a handful others as a premiere rock drummer, respected worldwide for his muscular, swinging style as the band rose from it’s scruffy beginnings to international stardom.

Watts joined the band in 1963 and remained over the next 60 years. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards are the other two longest serving and essential members of The Rolling Stones.

R.I.P Charlie Watts

Join Jase and Sean on Driving U Home today at 4pm as we pay tribute to Charlie Watts with a selection of Rolling Stones songs.