The Rolling Stones performed their first show since the death of Charlie Watts last Monday, the 20th. The performance marked the band's return to the stage after the start of the pandemic and was dedicated to the drummer.
Immediately following "Tumbling Dice," the second song on the setlist, Mick Jagger gave a speech in tribute to his friend and bandmate, who passed away on August 24th at the age of 80.
“I must also say that it’s a somewhat emotional night, because it’s the first tour we’ve done in 59 years without our beloved Charlie Watts . We all miss Charlie very much. We miss him as a band, we miss him as friends on and off stage,” the vocalist began (via Far Out Magazine ).
“We have so many memories of Charlie, and I’m sure some of you who have seen us before also have memories of Charlie. I hope you remember him as we do. We would like to dedicate this show to Charlie . Let’s dedicate a drink to Charlie,” he concluded.
Ronnie Wood also dedicated some words to his friend. "Charlie, we're praying for you and playing for you," he said.
At the show, the band made the live debut of "Living in a Ghost Town," a new song released during quarantine, and also played "19th Nervous Breakdown" for the first time since 2005.
Before the start of the tour, Watts announced a temporary break from performing due to health issues, and the band called on Steve Jordan to replace him on the tour. The band's decision to go ahead without the drummer was a way of honoring Charlie's last wishes .
The next tour dates are from September 26th to November 20th in the United States.
READ ALSO : The day Charlie Watts punched Mick Jagger: “Never call me 'your' drummer again”
