The Rolling Stones’ fame has often revolved around the electrifying presence of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the band’s lead songwriters and magnetic frontmen. With their larger-than-life roles, it’s easy to see why these two have often stolen the limelight. However, the true power of The Rolling Stones lay in their collective dynamic, and crucial to that was the unsung contribution of drummer Charlie Watts.
While Richards and Jagger have survived as the band’s last standing original members, it’s important to remember the indelible mark left by those who came before them. Brian Jones, the architect of the band’s formation, played a pivotal role in setting the Stones’ iconic sound in motion. His departure due to addiction struggles in 1969, followed by his tragic death, left a gap, but Charlie Watts would go on to keep the band’s rhythmic heart beating for six decades.
Watts’ quiet nature and preference to stay out of the spotlight often meant his contributions weren’t fully recognized in the public eye. Yet those who knew the band best understood his crucial role. Bob Dylan, no stranger to rock ‘n’ roll reverence, once said of the Stones: “They are truly the greatest rock and roll band in the world and always will be. Everything that came after them—metal, rap, punk, new wave, pop-rock—can all be traced back to the Rolling Stones. They were the first and last, and no one’s ever done it better.”
Keith Richards, a man never short of confidence, also recognized Watts’ invaluable contribution to their success. The guitarist, known for his swagger, was quick to credit his drummer whenever given the chance. In fact, Richards frequently stated that his greatest satisfaction came from working with Watts, citing how their collaboration generated the alchemical force behind songs like ‘Street Fighting Man.’ “Charlie stuck with me on this track,” Richards said, celebrating the synergy between rhythm players. “I’m not a virtuoso soloist. This record shows what happens when two cats believe in each other.”
For Watts, one of the band’s earliest hits, ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,’ held special significance. While the Stones had already made a name for themselves, this 1965 anthem thrust them into the global spotlight. “It’s the first really big record we ever made,” Watts recalled fondly. “It sums up the whole period.”
Watts also understood the importance of his role in the band’s sound. He often cited the tight bond between the members, where the rhythm section was the foundation for everything. Speaking about their early days, Watts noted how he would rely on Richards’ amplifier to stay in sync with the band during live performances, especially in the absence of monitors. “I had to have his amplifier quite close to me, and with an audience shouting, I needed that to know where the changes came,” Watts explained.
In an industry that often elevates the frontmen and songwriters, Charlie Watts remained a humble, silent force. His incredible drumming, though often overshadowed by the band’s lyrical and vocal prowess, provided the unshakable foundation that allowed Richards and Jagger to shine. As fellow drummer Ringo Starr said, “Charlie Watts was an amazing drummer, but drummers tend not to get the credit. He was the driving force, and the Stones were fortunate to have him as their heart.” Watts was truly the quiet pulse that made The Rolling Stones one of the most enduring forces in rock history.
