The Rolling Stones returned to the stage for the first time since the passing of their beloved drummer, Charlie Watts, delivering an emotional performance that marked a new chapter in the band’s legendary history.
The poignant evening took place at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts, during a private concert hosted by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Though intimate in scale, the show served as a powerful prelude to the Stones’ upcoming No Filter tour, which officially kicks off later in the week in St. Louis, Missouri.
Charlie Watts, who passed away peacefully on August 24 at the age of 80, was laid to rest in Devon weeks later. His absence was deeply felt by fans and bandmates alike — especially Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood, who stood on stage for the first time in nearly six decades without him.
In a video shared to social media, Mick Jagger addressed the crowd with heartfelt sincerity. “This is our first show of 2021 — it’s just a warm-up,” he began. “But I have to say, it’s a very emotional night for us. It’s the first tour in 59 years without our dear Charlie Watts, and we all miss him terribly.”
Jagger went on to reflect not only on Watts’ role within the band but also on their enduring friendship. “We miss him on stage, we miss him as a friend. So many memories — and I’m sure many of you who’ve seen us over the years have your own memories of Charlie. We hope you’ll cherish them, just as we do.”
Lifting a beer in tribute, Jagger offered a simple, touching toast: “This one’s for Charlie.” Wood chimed in, echoing the sentiment: “Charlie, this show’s for you.”
Overcome with emotion, Jagger paused before continuing. “What are we going to do now… I’m getting all choked up,” he admitted, before leading the band into the rest of the night’s set.
Though the stage felt a little emptier without Watts’ steady presence behind the drum kit, the performance served as a powerful homage to his legacy — a night full of love, loss, and the timeless spirit of rock ’n’ roll.
