Who Is Charlie Watts? Age, Biography and Wiki
Charlie Watts was born on June 2, 1941, in Kingsbury, London, England. He was renowned as the drummer for the iconic rock band The Rolling Stones. His drumming style was often characterized by its steady groove, making him a formidable presence within the band. Charlie was not only a musician but also an accomplished jazz drummer and devoted to various musical projects throughout his life. He passed away on August 24, 2021, leaving a profound impact on the music world.
| Occupation | Graphic Designer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 2, 1941 |
| Age | 80 Years |
| Birth Place | Bloomsbury, London, England |
| Horoscope | Gemini |
| Country | England |
| Date of death | 24 August, 2021 |
| Died Place | London, England |
Popularity
Charlie Watts's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While Charlie Watts's exact height and weight at the time of his passing are not definitively recorded, it is estimated that he stood approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall and weighed around 160 pounds (73 kg). His physical presence on stage, paired with his innate talent, solidified his reputation as a drummer of exceptional skill.
"I bought a banjo, and I didn't like the dots on the neck. So I took the neck off, and at the same time I heard a drummer called Chico Hamilton, who played with Gerry Mulligan, and I wanted to play like that, with brushes. I didn't have a snare drum, so I put the banjo head on a stand."
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Charlie Watts was married to his longtime partner, Shirley Ann Shepherd, whom he wed in 1964. The couple remained together for over five decades, showcasing a rare bond in the often tumultuous world of rock and roll. They had one daughter, Serafina Watts. His relationship with his wife and daughter was a cornerstone of his life, reflecting his dedication beyond his music career.
In the mid-1980s, Watts's previously moderate use of alcohol and drugs became excessive. "[They were] my way of dealing with [family problems] ..." he said. "I think it was a mid-life crisis. All I know is that I became totally another person around 1983 and came out of it about 1986. I nearly lost my wife and everything over my behaviour."
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2021, Charlie Watts's net worth was estimated to be around $250 million. This wealth was accumulated through his successful career as a drummer, his work with The Rolling Stones, as well as various other musical endeavors and projects over the years. His contributions to music not only earned him immense respect but also significant financial success.
In mid-1962, Watts first met Brian Jones, Ian "Stu" Stewart, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, who also frequented the London rhythm and blues clubs, but it was not until January 1963 that Watts finally agreed to join the Rolling Stones. Initially, the band could not afford to pay Watts, who had been earning a regular salary from his gigs.
His first public appearance as a permanent member was at the Ealing Jazz Club on 2 February 1963. Watts was often introduced as "The Wembley Whammer" by Jagger during live concerts.
Career, Business and Investments
Charlie Watts had a prolific career lasting more than five decades. He joined The Rolling Stones in 1963, and his contributions to the band helped shape the sound of rock music. Beyond his work with the band, Watts pursued interests in jazz music and released several albums showcasing his versatility as a drummer. He also dabbled in art and design, further diversifying his portfolio. Known for his understated elegance, he often invested in art and various business ventures reflecting his personal style.
Nicknamed "the Wembley Whammer" by Jagger, Watts cited jazz as a major influence on his drumming style. Aside from his career with the Rolling Stones, Watts toured with his own group, the Charlie Watts Quintet, and appeared in London at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club with the Charlie Watts Tentet.
Social Network
Although Charlie Watts was a legendary figure, he maintained a relatively low profile compared to many of his contemporaries. He was not heavily active on social media, preferring to keep his personal life private. However, fans continue to celebrate his legacy online, sharing memories, music, and tributes across platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Watts expressed a love–hate attitude towards touring, stating in 2003 that he "loved playing with Keith [Richards] and the band" but "wasn't interested in being a pop idol sitting there with girls screaming". He left the band after every tour, once stating "I don't actually like touring", citing the time commitment and travel required.
In 1989, the Rolling Stones were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Watts did not attend the ceremony.
Education
Charlie Watts received his early education at Kingsbury High School, where his interest in music began to take shape. He later pursued design studies at the London College of Printing, which influenced his artistic endeavors outside of music. His education provided a foundation that balanced his innate talent while fostering his passion for creativity.
In conclusion, Charlie Watts's legacy as a drummer, husband, and artist lives on. He remains an iconic figure in the world of music, inspiring future generations even in 2025 and beyond.
Watts and his family subsequently moved to Kingsbury, where he attended Tylers Croft Secondary Modern School from 1952 to 1956; as a schoolboy, he displayed a talent for art, music, cricket and football. When he and Green were both about thirteen, Watts became interested in drumming:
