The Drummers Who Forged Charlie Watts’ Style As a teenager in early ‘50s London, Charlie Watts discovered the American jazz art form and was transformed. He became obsessed with anything and everything regarding the American jazz movement—including the fashion and flair of these jazz musicians. He even began dressing like jazz icons, such as saxophonist Charlie Parker with his suit and tie, and drummer Shelly Manne in his Ivy League apparel. Watts began his journey into jazz music with Gerry Mulligan’s “Walkin’ Shoes,” featuring the dynamic brushwork of drummer Chico Hamilton. Inspired, Watts dismantled a banjo and used the body as a snare drum, playing brushes along with his favorite jazz recordings for several years. He would forever admire brilliant brushwork. Billy HigginsChico HamiltonClifton James His parents bought him his first drum kit at age 14, as his infatuation with jazz deepened. He was highly influenced by the prominent London […]

October 2021 Issue