The Rolling Stones dedicate Liverpool show to late drummer Charlie Watts

Virgin Radio

10 Jun 2022, 13:36

The Rolling Stones dedicated the first UK show of their 60th Anniversary tour to late drummer Charlie Watts in front of fans at Liverpool last night.

Sir Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood took to the stage, joined by Steve Jordan on drums for their return to Anfield football stadium.

The gig opened with a video that paid tribute to Watts, who passed away last year at the age of 80 and following this, Sir Mick made a speech about his former bandmate to the crowd.

He said: “In 1962 we met a drummer called Charlie Watts, and this is our first tour in England we’ve done without him, so we’d like to dedicate this show to Charlie.”

Their appearance at Liverpool was the first UK date of the European SIXTY Tour with special performances due to take place in London’s Hyde Park on 25 June and 3 July.

Sir Mick added: It’s great to be back in Liverpool after such a long time. Long time, no see.”

This comes after the singer shared snaps of him around the city before the big gig. Taking to Twitter on Wednesday (8th June), Jagger posted four wholesome photos of himself being a tourist, with one pic of him outside the famous Liver Building.

Another picture shows Mick with the statue of beloved singer, presenter and actress, Cilla Black on Mathew Street, while another sees the Rolling Stones man outside the Empire Theatre.

Joining them on the road is their musical director, Chuck Leavell, who has toured and performed with them for 40 years.

While chatting exclusively to virginradio.co.uk, Chuck said: “It is such a privilege, such a privilege to be able to do this, to celebrate 60 years. It's phenomenal. Everybody, from every member of the band, to the road crew to the promoters, and I think the fans included are just so excited to be able to see this happen.”

Read our full interview with Chuck here.