Charlie Watts, the drummer who provided the backbone of the Rolling Stones’ songs for more than half a century, has died, his publicist confirmed.

What You Need To Know

  • Charlie Watts, the longtime drummer of the Rolling Stones, died at age 80

  • His publicist said that Watts "passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family"

  • Watts joined the band in 1963 and stayed with the group for more than half a century

Bernard Doherty said Tuesday that Watts “passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family.”

Doherty said: “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.”

Watts joined the band in 1963 and stayed with the group for more than half a century.

He was 80 years old.

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