The Rolling Stones paid tribute today (June 2) to their late longtime drummer Charlie Watts in honor of what would’ve been his 84th birthday.
The band saluted Watts on its social media pages with a post featuring a video clip of The Rolling Stones performing their 1972 song “All Down the Line” from the 2008 concert film Shine a Light. As the clip plays, a note appears on the screen that reads, “Remembering Charlie, born on the 2nd June 1941. The heartbeat of the Rolling Stones. The best husband, father, grandfather and friend anyone could wish for. And the hardest working man in showbiz!”
At the end of the performance, Watts plays a dynamic drum roll and then takes a deep breath as he looks directly into the camera.
Accompany the video is a note that reads, “Celebrating our dear Charlie on his birthday today. We miss you every day and love you forever.”
Shine a Light was filmed during a series of fall 2006 concerts at the Beacon Theatre in New York City. The movie was directed by Martin Scorsese.
Individual Rolling Stones Members’ Birthday Tributes to Watts
Meanwhile, The Rolling Stones’ three current core members shared individual tributes to Watts on their own socials. In addition, former bassist Billy wyman posted a birthday message to Charlie
Frontman Mick Jagger wrote, “Thinking of you Charlie – happy birthday, Love Mick.” His message was accompanied by a photo of Watts smiling as he played the drums.
Similarly, founding guitarist Keith Richards’ note reads, “Missing you, Charlie! Happy Birthday. Love, Keith.” Richards’ post also featured four photos of Watts, included two of Keith and Charlie together.
Longtime guitarist Ronnie Wood wrote, “Darling Charlie, miss you my friend. Thinking of you on your birthday today.” Wood accompanied hos message with a black-and-white photo of Watts and him from 1977. Wood, incidentally, celebrated his 78th birthday on June 1. That day also marked the 50th anniversary of Ronnie’s first concert as a member of The Rolling Stones. The show took place in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at Louisiana State University’s Assembly Center.
As for Wyman, who played with The Stones from 1962 to 1993, he shared, “I sorely miss my other rocking half… born on this day on June 2, 1941.” The 88-year-old musician’s post included a late-1970s photo of Wyman and Watts dressed in colorful clothes, as well as pics of a dapperly dressed Charlie.
More About Watts
Watts joined The Stones in 1963, shortly after they formed, and played with the legendary British rockers until his death in August 2021 at age 80.
Charlie played on every album The Rolling Stones have released. He’s even featured on the band’s latest record, Hackney Diamonds, which was issued in October 2023. The album includes two tracks with Charlie on drums—“Mess It Up” and “Live by the Sword.”
Prior to his death, an ailing Watts recommended that acclaimed drummer Steve Jordan fill in for him. Since Charlie’s passing, Jordan has become The Rolling Stones’ touring drummer.
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