Charlie Watts

​When The Rolling Stones album “Voodoo Lounge” was released in the 90s, it received a number of much deserved compliments from fans, critics, and other musicians. (Seriously, check it out. There are great songs on that record.) I remember one writer asked Eric Clapton why he thought it was so good and he said, because Charlie was really into it.

Although somewhat subtle in both his demeanor and playing, Charlie Watts profoundly influenced his bandmates, the sound of The Rolling Stones, and drummers everywhere. I think what made him special was his cool confidence behind the kit. It is probably a challenge to play with larger-than-life figures like Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. But Charlie’s playing never clashed with what they were doing, nor did it get buried in the background. It just made their music that much better.