The Rolling Stones have issued a denial that Charlie Watts is leaving the band, after his future was called into doubt by reports in the Australian media.
It is the second time in around eight months that drummer’s membership of the band has been called into question by Australian sources.
This time, the claim was reported by the Healrdsun.com.au, who said sources in the band’s camp suggested to them that Watts will be replaced by “US drummer Steve Jordan” on forthcoming tour dates.
However, The Rolling Stones have today (May 24) issued a statement denying the latest claims.
“Contrary to a fabricated and ill informed report that appeared yesterday on a small music website in Australia, we would like to make it clear that drummer Charlie Watts has not left The Rolling Stones,” a spokesperson explained.
“Charlie is currently being interviewed by the media promoting their latest project – the release of the album ‘Exile on Main Street’ and the forthcoming film Stones In Exile, released on DVD next month.’’
The spokesperson added that Watts will be with his bandmates today “celebrating with the rest of the Stones… as the [url=http://www.nme.com/news/the-rolling-stones/51190]’Exile’ album is Number One in the UK charts[/url]”.
The Rolling Stones‘ re-release of ‘Exile On Mainstreet’ topped the UK Albums chart yesterday (May 23).
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