Paul McCartney Honors Charlie Watts in Video Tribute: He ‘Was a Rock’ to the Rolling Stones

Paul McCartney poured his heart out in a new video commemorating the heart of rock ‘n’ roll Charlie Watts, who died at the age of 80 on Tuesday (Aug. 24), the drummer’s rep announced.

The Beatles’ co-lead singer-songwriter and bassist honored the “engine room” of The Rolling Stones and virtuoso drummer in a new minute-long video that he shared on his Twitter page.

“So sad to hear about Charlie Watts, The Stones’ drummer, dying. He was a lovely guy. I knew he was ill, but I didn’t know he was this ill,” he said. “So lots of love to his family, his wife and kids and his extended family, and condolences to The Stones. It’s a huge blow to them because Charlie was a rock and a fantastic drummer, steady as a rock. Love you, Charlie! I’ve always loved you! Beautiful man! And great condolences and sympathies to his family.”

His fellow Beatles bandmate Ringo Starr also took to Twitter to pay tribute to Watts. “#God bless Charlie Watts we’re going to miss you man peace and love to the family Ringo,” he wrote while sharing touching black-and-white photos of the drummer duo.

Watch McCartney’s video below.