Death of Charlie Watts: from Mick Jagger to Paul McCartney, the rock world pays tribute to the drummer of the Stones

Tributes have been raining down since the announcement of the death of Charlie Watts, the drummer of the Rolling Stones, this Tuesday.

The one considered to be the “rock” of the group, of which he had been a member since 1963, died in London at the age of 80.

Quickly, the frontman of the Stones, Mick Jagger, and his guitarist, Keith Richards, posted photos on social networks to pay tribute to their friend.

pic.twitter.com/MrPpJI0Hxd

- Mick Jagger (@MickJagger) August 24, 2021

One showing Charlie Watts behind his drums, the other his favorite instrument, empty, accompanied by a "closed" sign.

pic.twitter.com/YUR6lckf8k

- Keith Richards (@officialKeef) August 24, 2021

All three were the oldest members of the rock group, which notably saw the parade of Mick Taylor, Ronnie Wood and Bill Wyman.

"Supreme drummer", "rock", "quiet giant"

Other personalities in the musical world have also had a word for the drummer, such as Elton John, who called Charlie Watts "supreme drummer", "the most elegant man and such brilliant company. ".

A very sad day.

Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer.

The most stylish of men, and such brilliant company.

My deepest condolences to Shirley, Seraphina and Charlotte.

And of course, The Rolling Stones.

@therollingstones #CharlieWatts #RIP pic.twitter.com/9rjSSgioZL

- Elton John (@eltonofficial) August 24, 2021

The members of the Beatles also had a thought for the Rolling Stones metronome.

"God bless Charlie Watts, we will miss you," drummer Ringo Starr commented, posting two photos with him on social media.

As for Paul McCartney, he posted a video on Twitter in which he describes "a lovely guy" and sends "a lot of love to his family" as well as his "condolences to the Stones (...) of which Charlie was the rock ”.

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A post shared by Ringo Starr (@ringostarrmusic)

Many other artists have had a word in memory of the drummer.

Former Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher posted a single “RIP Charlie Watts” on Twitter, as did the band KISS.

“A mentor in my youth, a fellow jazz fan,” described Doors drummer John Densmore.

An early mentor, a fellow jazz fan, #RIP Charlie Watts.

-John Densmore https://t.co/C8x9qMSLbV

- John Densmore (@JohnDensmore) August 24, 2021

"Rock 'n' roll wouldn't be rock 'n' roll without the rhythm, the style, the vibes of this incredible musician," commented Tom Morello, guitarist for Rage Against the Machine. "He was a quiet giant," said Stewart Copeland, drummer for The Police. “I have so many fond memories with Charlie and I will miss him sorely,” said Kenney Jones, drummer for The Who.