Beatles members, Elton John and many more stars pay tribute to late Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts

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Tributes are pouring in from throughout the music world following the sad news that longtime Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts died today at the age of 80.

Among the many stars paying homage to Watts are surviving Beatles members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, and pop-rock legend Elton John.

McCartney has posted a video message on his social media sites in which he says, “So sad to hear about Charlie Watts…dying. He was a lovely guy, and I knew he was ill, but I didn’t know he was this ill. So, lots of love to his family, his wife and kids and his extended family, and condolences to The Stones. A huge blow to them, because Charlie was a rock and a fantastic drummer, steady as a rock. Anyway, so…Love you, Charlie, I always loved you, beautiful man. And great condolences and sympathies to his family.”

Ringo wrote on his Twitter feed, “God bless Charlie Watts we’re going to miss you man peace and love to the family,” and accompanied the note with a photo of him and Watts apparently exchanging a pair of drumsticks.

Meanwhile, Elton John tweeted, “A very sad day. Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer. The most stylish of men, and such brilliant company. My deepest condolences to [family members] Shirley, Seraphina and Charlotte. And of course, The Rolling Stones.”

Here are some of the many other tributes to Watts from well-known artists:

The Who‘s Pete Townshend: “Charlie Watts wept at Keith Moon‘s funeral. I wish I was capable of such tears today. Instead I just want to say goodbye. Not a rock drummer, a jazz drummer really, and that’s why the Stones swung like the Basie band!! Such a lovely man. God bless his wife and daughter.”

Brian Wilson: “I’m just shocked to hear about Charlie Watts. I don’t know what to say, I feel terrible for Charlie’s family. Charlie was a great drummer and I loved the Stones music, they made great records. Love & Mercy.”

John Fogerty: “I first saw The [Rolling Stones] in 1966 in the Bay Area and have been a fan ever since. Charlie Watts was one of the great drummers and will be missed. Rest easy Charlie.”

Robbie Robertson: “Charlie’s drumming is powerful and unique. His approach is entirely his own and helped shape the sound of rock and roll. Blessings Charlie Watts.”

KISSPaul Stanley: “AWFUL NEWS. One of the true timeless icons and the backbone of the Stones. Hard to fathom the loss. So very sad.”

KISS’ Gene Simmons: “Our prayers and hearts go out to Charlie Watts family, fans and friends. The Rolling Stones drummer played on Satisfaction, Honky Tonk Woman and hundreds more. Rest In Peace, Charlie.”

Axl Rose: “Very sorry to hear of the passing of The Rolling Stones Drummer Charlie Watts. My deepest condolences to his family, the band and the fans.”

Whitesnake‘s David Coverdale: “A very fine, gifted man…anchoring one of the very finest rock bands in history…Another Beautiful Soul…Thank You, Charlie.”

Black Sabbath‘s Tony Iommi: “So sorry to hear the very sad news of Charlie Watts passing. He was such a nice guy and a major influence in the music business — he’ll be sadly missed. My deepest condolences to his family and to Mick, Ronnie, Keith and all his friends and fans. R.I.P.”

The Scorpions: “Another very sad Day in the World of Music…Just learned about the passing of Charlie Watts the legendary Drummer of the Rolling Stones…our deep Condolences go out to Charlie’s Family and his bandmates.”

Doors drummer John Densmore: “An early mentor, a fellow jazz fan, #RIP Charlie Watts.”

Pearl Jam‘s Mike McCready: “Sad to hear of Charlie Watts passing. The Rolling Stones have always been my favorite band, and Charlie was the engine of subltle and heavy grooves. I’ll put on ‘Sway’ which is my favorite song of all time. Any of us in a rock band wouldn’t be here if it hadn’t been for Charlie.”

Def Leppard‘s Joe Elliott: “Devastating news, those in the know know he was the heart & soul of the band…I had the absolute pleasure of meeting him a few times, a total gentleman…it goes without saying he will be sorely missed.”

Joan Jett: “Charlie Watts was the most elegant and dignified drummer in rock and roll. He played exactly what was needed – no more – no less. He is one of a kind.”

Kinks guitarist Dave Davies: “In total shock Charlie Watts was a lovely guy. He will be sorely missed. Deepest sympathy to his wife, the band and all his family and friends…I knew him a bit I used to meet him on the train when I used to go to Devon years and years ago. he was a great drummer and a great guy a one off.”

Van Halen drummer Alex Van Halen, “Charlie……Godspeed.”

Little Steven Van Zandt: “Oh no! This is terribly shocking. Not just one of greatest drummers in one of the greatest bands of all time, but a gentleman’s gentleman. He singlehandedly brought the Rock world some real class. Rock and Roll will miss him profoundly. We are significantly less without him.”

Jane’s Addiction singer Perry Farrell: “Drummers are the most ensnared individuals. Though they are loudest, they are the last to be heard. They have insecurities due to the fact that everyone has their back turned on them. Herein lies the band’s secret; there is no greatness — without a great drummer. RIP Charlie Watts.”

Ex-Guns N’ Roses drummer Matt Sorum: “Rest In Peace Charlie Watts. The heartbeat and foundation of The Rolling Stones. A very sad day for drummers, Rock N Roll and The World. I can’t imagine this planet without the Stones. Thank you for all of the music and inspiration all these years. Condolences to his family and the band.”

Patti Smith: “Mourned and beloved by all.”

Duran Duran: “So saddened to hear about the passing of Charlie Watts. An absolute inspiration to a legion of drummers since the 1960’s. A man of grace, style, dignity and composure.”

Chic‘s Nile Rodgers: “Rest In Power #CharlieWatts RIP. You are a smooth brother. Thanks for all the great music.”

Sheryl Crow: “A hero is gone. No words. A huge gaping hole in the universe.”

Tom Morello: “Rock n roll would not be rock n roll without the rhythm, the style, the VIBE of this incredible musician. Rest In Peace #CharlieWatts, one of the greatest and most important architects of the music we love.”

Lenny Kravitz: “The beat of The Stones. There are no words, every groove has spoken for itself.”

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