Born in London in 1941, Charles Robert Watts developed a passion for music at a young age. Unlike many rock drummers, his early interest lay in jazz.
He honed his skills playing in London's rhythm and blues clubs and even joined a band called Alexis Korner's Blues Incorporated, a group that nurtured several future British rock stars. The turning point in Charlie Watts' career came in 1963 when he joined The Rolling Stones. While Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Brian Jones grabbed much of the spotlight, Charlie Watts provided the unwavering rhythmic foundation that propelled the band to superstardom.
His precise drumming and unflashy style perfectly complemented the band's energetic rock sound. He is credited for keeping the Stones grounded and adding a touch of sophistication to their music.
Despite the rock and roll lifestyle around him, Charlie Watts remained a dedicated family man with a love for classic tailoring and art collecting. This contrasted with the band's bad-boy image and earned him the nickname "The Gentleman Drummer."
He was a brilliant drummer for the Rolling Stones until his sad death in 2021.