Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts dies aged 80
The Rolling Stones drummer, Charlie Watts, here in 2017 at the U Arena in Nanterre, passed away this Tuesday, August 24, 2021. AP - Michel Euler
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Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts died on Tuesday in London at the age of 80, his agent announced, lamenting the disappearance of "
one of the greatest drummers of his generation
".
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"
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear Charlie Watts,
" said his agent in a statement, adding that he "
died peacefully in a London hospital earlier in the day, surrounded by his family
”.
pic.twitter.com/wi6333F6QF
- The Rolling Stones (@RollingStones) August 24, 2021
A spokesperson for the artist had already announced in early August that he would not participate in the group's American tour, scheduled for the fall, for medical reasons.
"
Charlie has undergone a successful operation,
" but his doctors believe he needs rest, he said at the time, without further clarification.
The drummer, who turned 80 in June, had been a member of the Rolling Stones since 1963. Along with frontman Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards, Charlie Watts was among the oldest members of the famous rock band, which saw Mick parade. Taylor, Ronnie Wood or even Bill Wyman.
In 2004, Charlie Watts was treated for throat cancer at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, from which he recovered after four months of struggle, including six weeks of intensive radiotherapy.
"
Charlie was a beloved husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of the Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation,
" said his agent Bernard Doherty.
“
We ask that the privacy of his family, group members and close friends be respected in these difficult times
,” he added.
(
With
AFP)
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