Charlie Watts, the drummer of the Rolling Stones, died at the age of 80 years

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear Charlie Watts, said in a statement his agent, adding that he had passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today, surrounded by his family.

 

A spokesperson for the artist had already announced in early August that he would not participate in the group's U.S. tour, scheduled for the fall, for medical reasons.

 

Charlie had a successful surgery, but his doctors feel he needs to rest, he said at the time.

 

The drummer, who had celebrated his 80th birthday in June, was a member of the Rolling Stones since 1963. Along with leader Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards, Charlie Watts was one of the oldest members of the famous rock band, which has seen Mick Taylor, Ronnie Wood and Bill Wyman.

 

In 2004, Mr. Watts was treated for throat cancer at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, from which he recovered after a four-month battle, including six weeks of intensive radiotherapy.

 

Charlie was a beloved husband, father and grandfather and, as a member of the Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation, said Doherty.