Charles Robert Watts served as the drummer for the Rolling Stones for 58 years, maintaining his position from his first appearance in February 1963 until his death in 2021. Trained as a graphic artist, he balanced his career in rock music with a lifelong dedication to jazz percussion and design contributions to the band's visual identity.
Early Life and Influences
Born on 2 June 1941 at University College Hospital in London to Charles Richard Watts and Lillian Charlotte, he grew up in Wembley. His interest in music emerged during childhood, encouraged by his long-term friend Dave Green. He began drumming after experimenting with a modified banjo and acquired his first drum kit in 1955. Following his education at Tylers Croft Secondary Modern School and Harrow Art School, he worked as a graphic designer while playing in local jazz bands.
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In 1961, Watts joined Alexis Korner's band, Blues Incorporated. By early 1963, he transitioned to the Rolling Stones, marking the start of a tenure that lasted until his final concert on 30 August 2019 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Throughout his time with the group, he was noted for his technical consistency, never missing a concert, and frequently introduced by Mick Jagger as the Wembley Whammer.
Design and Professional Scope
Beyond percussion, Watts applied his background in graphic arts to the band’s operations. He contributed to the design of various record sleeves, including Between the Buttons, and collaborated with Mick Jagger on the stage architecture for several major tours, ranging from the Tour of the Americas to the A Bigger Bang Tour. He also famously organized a 1975 press announcement in Manhattan that utilized a flatbed truck to promote upcoming dates.
Jazz Projects and Later Work
Watts maintained a significant presence in the jazz community outside of his rock career. He performed with the Charlie Watts Quintet, the Charlie Watts Tentet, and the boogie-woogie band Rocket 88. His discography includes numerous collaborations with musicians such as Evan Parker and Jack Bruce. Following his death in 2021, posthumous drumming contributions appeared on the 2023 Rolling Stones album Hackney Diamonds, specifically on the tracks Mess It Up and Live By The Sword.
Fast facts
- Born: 2 June 1941, London
- Died: 24 August 2021, London
- Education: Kingsbury High School
- Band Membership: The Rolling Stones (1963–2021)
- Inductions: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1989), UK Music Hall of Fame (2004)
- Key Publication: Ode to a High Flying Bird (1964)
- Last Performance: 30 August 2019, Miami
Questions readers ask
Did Charlie Watts play on Rolling Stones records after he died?
Yes, his drumming appears on two tracks, Mess It Up and Live By The Sword, from the 2023 album Hackney Diamonds.
What was Charlie Watts's profession before joining the Rolling Stones?
He was a professional graphic designer, having worked for companies such as Charlie Daniels Studios and Charles, Hobson and Gray.
Achievements
- Instruments: drum kit
- Genres: rock music, blues rock and jazz
