Charlie Watts, The Rolling Stones’ renowned drummer, delighted the world for nearly five decades with his amazing talent and solid presence. Despite his iconic status and global renown, he battled a quiet illness in his last years. This article focuses on Charlie Watts’ illness, its impact on his life and profession, and the determination he showed throughout his journey.
Charlie Watts Illness: Long Battle With Throat Cancer
Watts was known for his dedication to his profession, but he faced a severe foe in the shape of disease. His fight with throat cancer was made public in 2004. Not only did the diagnosis shock fans, but it also shocked Watts.
Throat cancer is a dreadful disease, especially for a singer whose voice and performance are dependent on their throat’s health. Watts undertook a difficult and arduous treatment regimen that included surgery to remove the tumor. His persistence and fortitude throughout the struggle were admirable.
He was certified cancer-free after a successful surgery and cancer therapy. His triumphant return to the stage was a watershed moment for both the band and its ardent supporters. It demonstrated his incredible strength and love of music.
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Charlie Watts Childhood and Musical Brilliance
Charlie Watts, better known as Wembley Whammer, was born on June 2, 1941 in London, England. He grew up in Wembley and was close friends with jazz bassist Dave Green. Charlie received his first drum kit in 1955 and began practicing while expanding his jazz record library.
He had a great passion for music from an early age. Watts’ introduction to drumming marked the start of a path that would take him to become a rock & roll hero.
When Charlie Watts Joined the Rolling Stones?
Charlie Watts formed The Rolling Stones with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Brian Jones, and Bill Wyman in the early 1960s. When the young rocker joined the Rolling Stones in 1963, he became well-known.
Despite internal strife, the band performed all over the world and recorded thirty studio albums while being led by Mick Jagger. The Rolling Stones are tied for the second most Number 1 albums on the Official UK Chart, only surpassed by the Beatles, and are the only artists to have topped the UK Album Charts in six distinct decades.
Charlie, who possesses multiple talents, also created the band’s tour stages and record sleeves. Up until 2019, he was the only band member to have been on every record the group had released and in every single live performance.
Charlie and the group received an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. Charlie was elected into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame two years after joining the Rolling Stones in the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004.
Who is Charlie Watts Wife?
One of the best drummers in rock history is thought to be the Wembley Whammer. He got married to Shirley Anne Shepherd in 1964, a woman he had met prior to his quick ascent to popularity, despite his celebrity.
They had one child together, a girl named Seraphina, who was born in March 1968. Charlie has a granddaughter named Charlotte, but throughout his professional life, he kept his home life a secret. When Charlie wasn’t on tour, the pair resided in Devon and operated a stud farm.
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Charlie Watts Death and Cause of Death
Charlie Watts, a legendary drummer, passed away on August 24, 2021, as his publicist revealed. In March 2022, bandmate Keith Richards disclosed that the legendary rock star had been suffering throat cancer since 2004. The malignancy ultimately claimed his life.
Although the cause of death was not known at the time, it was known that he had undergone surgery for an undisclosed medical condition. Due to his untimely withdrawal, the band replaced him with Steve Jordan for their US tour in early August 2021.
Bandmate Ronnie Wood emphasized at the time that Watts would not be missing from the scheduled shows. According to Charlie’s publicist, the legendary rock and roll musician passed away quietly at home with his family by his side.
The Rolling Stones issued a poignant statement, calling him “a cherished husband, father, and grandfather” and “one of the greatest drummers of his generation.” His humility, sincerity, and kindness were cherished by his family and close friends.
— The Rolling Stones (@RollingStones) August 24, 2021
In conclusion, Charlie Watts’ silent battle with illness and triumphant comeback to the stage demonstrates his tenacity and unshakable love of music. His legacy is a remarkable example of the force of perseverance and the lasting impact of his exceptional talent.
While the world mourns the passing of this renowned drummer, his music and spirit will live on in the hearts of fans and artists everywhere. Charlie Watts, a rock and roll star, has passed away, but his legacy in the music world will live on.
