The Rolling Stones paid tribute to their late drummer Charlie Watts on social media by sharing a video clip of the band performing their 1972 song “All Down the Line” from the 2008 concert film *Shine a Light*. The post included a message honoring Watts, who was born on June 2, 1941, describing him as “the heartbeat of the Rolling Stones” and praising him as “the best husband, father, grandfather, and friend anyone could wish for” as well as “the hardest working man in showbiz.”
In the video, Watts delivers a powerful drum roll before looking directly into the camera and taking a deep breath. The band’s post concluded with the words, “Celebrating our dear Charlie on his birthday today. We miss you every day and love you forever.” *Shine a Light* was filmed during concerts at New York City’s Beacon Theatre in the fall of 2006 and was directed by Martin Scorsese.
The Rolling Stones’ current core members each shared personal birthday messages for Watts on their own social media pages. Former bassist Bill Wyman also posted a tribute. Mick Jagger, the band’s frontman, wrote, “Thinking of you Charlie – happy birthday. Love Mick,” alongside a photo of Watts smiling behind his drum kit. Keith Richards, the founding guitarist, posted, “Missing you, Charlie! Happy Birthday. Love, Keith,” with four photos of Watts, including two with Richards himself. Ronnie Wood, longtime guitarist, shared, “Darling Charlie, miss you my friend. Thinking of you on your birthday today.” Wood’s post included a black-and-white photo of him with Watts from 1977. Notably, Wood celebrated his own 78th birthday on June 1, which also marked the 50th anniversary of his first concert as a member of the band in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Bill Wyman, who played bass with the Stones from 1962 to 1993, posted, “I sorely miss my other rocking half… born on this day on June 2, 1941.” His tribute included photos of Watts from the late 1970s, dressed in colorful attire, as well as formal portraits of Watts.
Watts joined The Rolling Stones in 1963, shortly after the band formed, and played with them until his death in August 2021 at the age of 80. He contributed to every Rolling Stones album, including the band’s most recent release, *Hackney Diamonds*, which came out in October 2023. The album features two tracks with Watts on drums: “Mess It Up” and “Live by the Sword.” Before his passing, Watts recommended drummer Steve Jordan as his replacement, and since then, Jordan has become the Stones’ touring drummer.
