Drummer Watts, who was part of the Stones’ longtime foursome along with Jagger, Richards and Wood, played for the band for over 50 years.
His bandmates led the tribute on social media, with Jagger posting a photo on Twitter and Instagram of Watts playing drums.
Richards also posted a photo on his social media accounts of a drum kit with a “Closed” sign over it.
Wood posted a photo of himself with Watts, adding, “I love you my fellow Gemini, I will miss you very much. You are the best.”
The Stones announced earlier this month that Watts would miss the upcoming North American leg of the band’s “No Filter” tour after undergoing a medical procedure for an unknown condition.
Watts’ spokesperson told NewsMadura on Tuesday that Watts “passed away peacefully earlier today in a London hospital surrounded by his family”, adding that he was “one of the greatest drummers of his generation”.
Several other musicians also shared their memories and tributes to Watts on social media, with many saying they were personally inspired by the drummer.
In 1962, Brian Jones formed the Rolling Stones with vocalist Jagger, pianist Ian Stewart, and guitarists Richards and Dick Taylor. Watts initially turned down the group’s first offer to join, later relented and played his first gig with them in January 1963.
Watts is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Shirley, his daughter Seraphina, and his granddaughter Charlotte.
Hilary Clarke of NewsMadura contributed to this report.
