Today is the birthday of Charlie Watts, the world-famous drummer of the Rolling Stones. The work above and his portrait on the musical reference works/birthday calendars below were made by me, Frieke.
Charles Robert Watts was born on June 2, 1941, in London. He grew up in Wembley and developed an interest in jazz at an early age, teaching himself to drum by playing along with his favorite records. Besides music, Watts also had talents in art, cricket, and soccer. After high school, Watts studied graphic arts at the Harrow School of Art, which later became useful in his contributions to the visual presentations of The Rolling Stones. After this study, he became a successful graphic designer and joined Blues Incorporated, an influential British blues band with a regular spot at the Ealing Jazz Club in West London, which became a breeding ground for young musicians and blues enthusiasts. It was here that Watts met Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Brian Jones.
In 1963, Watts joined the Rolling Stones as a drummer, known for his tight and minimalist drumming, influenced by his background in jazz. His style and technical proficiency were crucial to the band's sound. Some Stones songs where his drumming style plays a prominent role include: Paint It Black (1966), Sympathy for the Devil (1968), Honky Tonk Women (1969), Gimme Shelter (1969), Midnight Rambler (1969), Can't You Hear Me Knocking (1971), Brown Sugar (1971), Start Me Up (1981). Although Charlie Watts might not have often been in the spotlight like some of his bandmates, his contribution to the band was undeniable and crucial. His ability to find the perfect rhythm and groove was indispensable to the Stones' sound. In addition to his musical role, Watts also designed several album covers and stage designs for the band.
Watts was known as one of the more reserved and stable members of The Rolling Stones. In 1964, he married Shirley Ann Shepherd, and they remained together until his death. They met at art school in London. The couple had one daughter, Seraphina, and a granddaughter. With his wife Shirley Ann, he shared a love for horses (Arabians). Their stable was located on the grounds of their country house in Dolton in the English county of Devon. He was an avid collector of antique pocket watches and classic British cars, although he didn't have a driver's license. He was also a fervent art lover and had a large collection of artworks.
In addition to his work with The Rolling Stones, Watts was active in various jazz projects. He led his own bands, such as the Charlie Watts Quintet and the Charlie Watts Tentet, and released several jazz albums, including: From One Charlie (1991), A Tribute to Charlie Parker with Strings (1992), Warm & Tender (1993) with the Charlie Watts Quintet, Watts at Scott’s (2004) with the Charlie Watts Tentet. Another important work of Watts in his jazz career is The Charlie Watts Orchestra Live at Fulham Town Hall (1986). The album features big band arrangements and was recorded during a live performance at Fulham Town Hall. These albums showcase Charlie Watts' versatility as a musician and his deep passion for jazz music.
On August 24, 2021, Charlie Watts passed away at the age of 80 in a London hospital from complications of throat cancer. For 10 days, the content of the official Rolling Stones website was replaced by a single photo of Watts in his memory. Watts is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most versatile drummers of all time.
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