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The Rolling Stones in the press:“Charlie Watts: The One-off Merchant…”
“I’m basically jazz,” said Charlie. “I’ve never found something I really wanted to do outside the Stones. I know it must sound boring, but it’s not. I do waste a lot of time, but I would. If I was working in a bank too I’d do it anyway.” (Ref. Rolling Stones Coolest)
Charlie’s way of life isn’t boring, it simply revolves around subtleties rather than vigorous raving and public spectacle. With a little coaxing, one finds that the Old Stone will relate things most people would not suspect and few would ever notice. He has his opinions, too, but hesitates to voice them, almost seeming afraid to risk being considered original — they have all been said before. He is one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.
“I never really wanted to be on stage. I’d never be in the Stones if the guitar player hadn’t come to the blues club and I got on good with him. I suppose I’m not very good socially — I never go out much. I do like playing the music we do, though. I’ve even started writing things that I’d like the Stones to do, songs like the last few we’ve done. But I find it’s hard. I’ve never written lyrics, and Mick’s so good at it. You’ve got to think like Mick to write for the Stones. If you don’t, then it doesn’t work. But it’s nice doing it yourself.” (Ref. Rolling Stones Coolest)
Drumming is not easy really. Everybody says it is, but it’s hard. You play a kit, not one drum. You go over this drum with one rhythm, and you devise and try to merge abilities as you move toward the ride. It’s hard. People tend to forget it’s not as natural as that. You need more control to play it than you do in the trumpet, sax and most other instruments. There is a vast difference between great drummers and virtuosos. Many great drummers are so good with the band they are in that a real virtuoso is not needed. But those who are can play with anybody and all are the virtuosos. They don’t support the lead — they immediately assume the lead and everybody else plays as must follow them. A virtuoso’s presence must dominate. That’s why everyone is fond with playing the drums. Therefore, it is very hard for those playing to come to terms and find themselves and keep pace with him.
Charlie Watts, the “wild man” is an excellent time keeper who runs his hands in all time signatures, doubles up on his snares and gently fires out thudding rim shots from his side sticks. He never breaks into rolls unless they are essential, and his solo features involve extremely tight, controlled press rolls and carefully built climaxes. There is no waste of effort or rhythm — everything is precisely used, simply and effectively. With the Stones, he gets across more with less than most of the exhibitionists do with a battery of accessories. There is very little trouble in reading Charlie Watts — he doesn’t try to conceal anything. In simplicity lies a remarkable achievement. Charlie is content. But he must be next week!
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