LimeWire Music Blog

If ever there was a story that did not require a fancy headline, it’s this one. Holy shit! Australia’s Undercover is reporting that Charlie Watts has quit The Rolling Stones. Here’s what their inside source has to say: “Charlie Watts has quit the band. He will never record or tour with the band again.” Apparently, it was Keith Richards who convinced the 68-year-old drummer (who has spent 47 of those years as a Stone) to stay on as long as he did.

As for who will take over for the rock legend, well… who could possibly fill his shoes? (Why do the words “Dave Grohl” keep coming to mind?) According to the source, “The Stones are looking to Keith’s Expensive Winos drummer Charlie Drayton to fill the void in all future Stones’ calling.” Uh, who?

So the big question is, how will this affect the band? While it’s obvious Mick and Keith are the Stones’ artistic and aesthetic centerpieces, Watts is undeniably a huge part of their dynamic. And his departure will mean that only two original members remain.

Now, the band has not confirmed the news of Watts’ departure yet, so the Undercover report isn’t set in stone. Meanwhile, no announcements have appeared on the Rolling Stones’ official website, either. But we’ll be sure to keep you up to date on any developments.

Update: NME reports that the Rolling Stones have released a statement denying that Charlie Watts is leaving the band.