Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts dies aged 80

Legendary drummer died in London hospital today

Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts (pictured above, far right) has died, aged 80.

The world famous drummer with the Stones passed away “peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family” earlier today, according to his publicist.

It had been known that Watts, who had previously been treated for throat cancer. was unwell, as it was announced he would miss the band’s US tour dates to recover from a medical procedure.

Watts joined the Stones in January 1963 and was a consistent presence, although he also recorded a series of often more jazz-orientated solo albums.