Tag Archives: Charlie Watts

Rolling Stones Legend Charlie Watts Has Died

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Charlie Watts, the mainstay drummer for The Rolling Stones, has died. He was 80 years old. According to a post on social media, Charlie past away peacefully in a London hospital, surrounded by his family. No cause of death has been revealed, but out of concern for his health, it had already been announced that Charlie would not join the band on their upcoming tour of USA. Originally focused on Jazz, Charlie was the bedrock of rhythm and groove in the band, and with his chill demeanor, he was a calm, consistent presence compared with his more colorful maddened by the loss of this legend. Rest in peace.  

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Percussionist and Visionary Instrument Maker Vic Firth Passes Away At 85

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Vic Firth, photo credit VicFirth.com

Vic Firth, photo credit VicFirth.com

Musician, educator and instrument maker Everett “Vic” Firth has died at age 85, according to his namesake company. Based in Boston MA with stick manufacturing in Newport ME, Vic Firth drumsticks has been a leader in the field of percussion instruments since 1963. The company website paid tribute to their late founder today:

 

Everett “Vic” Firth 1930-2015

“Vic was an inspiration to all of us. He was a visionary, a mentor, a leader and a friend. He always said he surrounded himself with the best people, but the truth is he brought out the best in all of us. His boundless passion for music and musicians drove every decision he made.

Vic’s spirit and legacy will continue to live at the core of the Vic Firth Company. He will be missed beyond words.”

 

Vic Firth was more than the company figurehead, who oversaw a merger with Zildjian in 2010. He was a well-lauded percussionist in his own right, mastering the tympani. He also was the head of the percussion department at the New England Conservatory of Music and also at the Tanglewood Music Center.

Vic Firth Drum Sticks,

Vic Firth Drumsticks, by Omar Cordy/OJC Pics

 

Vic Firth sticks are the choice for countless drummers from Charlie Watts, Roger Taylor, Vinnie Paul, Carmine Appice, Vinnie Colaiuta, Jack DeJohnette, Matt Garska, and Dave Weckl among many others. Many drummers and fans took to social media to pay their respects.