Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died according to his publicist. The drummer had been with the world-famous band since 1963. A statement from his London publicist Bernard Doherty to the PA news agency said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts.
“He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family.
“Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of The Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation.
“We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time.’’
Earlier this month, it was announced that Watts was to miss the band’s forthcoming US tour.
In 2004, Watts was treated for throat cancer at London’s Royal Marsden Hospital.
He was given the all-clear after a four-month battle, involving six weeks of intensive radiotherapy treatment.
Following his recovery, the band began work on their 22nd studio album, A Bigger Bang.
Watts, who reportedly gave up smoking in the 1980s, said during an interview with Rolling Stone magazine at the time that he felt “very lucky” doctors had caught the cancer in time for him to be able to make a full recovery.
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Sheryl Crow tweeted: “A hero is gone. No words. A huge gaping hole in the universe. RIP Charlie Watts.”
Piers Morgan said: “A brilliant musician and a wonderful character, he was the cool, calm, ever-pounding heartbeat of the Stones. Very sad news.”
Elton John said: “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.”
Beatles’ drummer Ringo Starr tweeted: “#God bless Charlie Watts we’re going to miss you man peace and love to the family.”