It has been reported that the group’s iconic tongue band logo will be changed from red to black. This alteration is said to be in tribute to the group’s drummer Charlie Watts who tragically passed away last month. The “Paint It Black” performers will feature the new logo on band merchandise sold on their US No Filter tour, as well as on large screens used during their performances. The band will also pay tribute to their bandmate by using archived footage used within montages, the footage will be used throughout their tour which starts on 26th September 2021.

A source has spoken with the Bizarre column from the Sun Newspaper concerning the surviving member’s plans to honour Watts. “They don’t want it to be a concert that is a downer because they know fans have paid good money to see them. But it feels only right that they reference Charlie’s passing because he was such a vital part of the band and it will be strange for them all to not have him there. They think the plans make for a fitting tribute.”

The tragic news of Watts’ passing was announced last month and has left the rock n roll community deeply saddened by the great loss. The acclaimed drummer passed away at the age of 80 on 24th August 2021, since his passing countless tributes have poured in expressing grief whilst celebrating his great talent and influence. Watts’ publicist Bernard Doherty released this statement to announce his death.  “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts. He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family. Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also as a member of The Rolling Stones one of the greatest drummers of his generation. We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time.”

It has been reported that Watts’ fellow bandmates could not attend the funeral due to travel restrictions caused by COVID-19. Sir Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood were in Boston for rehearsals in preparation for their US tour and consequently were not allowed to return to the UK to pay their respects to their friend in person. However, an insider also told The Sun that the group are planning a celebration to honour Watts’ life when back in the UK.

It was also announced that plans were in place to honour Watts at this weekend’s Isle of Wright Festival. John Giddings, the festival’s boss, had confirmed that they aimed to pay tribute to the late great drummer. It was stated over the weekend that a photo of Watts was to be projected upon the main stage. It was on this same stage that Watts and the stones performed their legendary set in 2007, within the now infamous performance they were joined by fellow British icon Amy Winehouse. Giddings had this to say concerning the festival’s plan to pay tribute to Watts. “We have been talking about doing something. I mean it’s just so sad…he was such a great bloke. I am not sure it’s the Rolling Stones without him but they will continue on for the rest of their lives. I mean they are the best rock band in the world bar none. They get better every time I see them.”

It was announced this week that the iconic musician passed away peacefully at a London hospital at the age of 80 whilst surrounded by his family. The news came just three weeks after it was announced that Watts would not be playing with the band on their US tour No Filter due to health issues. The famed drummer’s health issues were reported after an emergency medical procedure, the band had expected the issue to be temporary and that he would later re-join them.

No official cause of death has been announced, a spokesperson for Watt’s released the following statement announcing the musician’s tragic passing. “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts. He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family, Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of The Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation. We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time.”

Watts was often regarded as the cool member of the Rolling Stones and described as universally likeable by all. Watts was a long-standing member of the band and was the Rolling Stones’ drummer for all 30 albums and tours. Watts’ talent can be heard on celebrated albums such as the 1968 release Beggars Banquet and the band’s most recent release Blue & Lonesome released in 2016. The English musician made his first appearance in the stones in February 1963 and remained a member until his death. Along with other musical icons such as Sir Paul McCartney and Elton John, Watts’ bandmates have been posting heart-warming tributes to their fallen band member and friend.

Jagger took to his Instagram to share a simple and emotional post that features a photo of Watts behind a drum set, the post does not include a caption but features an array of comments leaving their condolences.

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A post shared by Mick Jagger (@mickjagger)

Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards also shared a simple and stirring post on Instagram, showing an empty drum set with a hanging sign which states Closed.

 

 

 

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A post shared by Keith Richards (@officialkeef)

Fellow bandmate Ronnie Wood also took to Instagram to share the sad news to fans, the post features Wood and Watts posed in sharp suits with a caption expressing his sadness.

A post shared by Ronnie Wood (@ronniewood)

Sir Paul McCartney from fellow British band Beatles, shared an emotional video on Twitter in tribute to Watts.

Paul on Charlie Watts ❤️ pic.twitter.com/rn2elK6cFE

— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 24, 2021

Born on 2nd June 1941 Watts is best known for his time as the Rolling Stones’ drummer, but the multi-talented artist also held a passion for Jazz. Watts also performed with his own band called the Charlie Watts Quintet whilst touring and recording with the Rolling Stones. A man of multiple talents, Watts originally sought a career in graphic design and was trained within the field, but his love for Jazz pulled him towards his passion for music and the drummer joined the band Blues Incorporated. Within his performances at various rhythm and blues bars and clubs across London Watts would meet future bandmates Jagger, Richards and Jones. Watts is often regarded as one of the greatest drummers of time, he can be found within various top 100 lists complied by multiple publications and institutions. As well as his musical talent Watts was repeatedly recognised for his fashion prowess, The Daily Telegraph has included the drummer within their list of the World’s Best Dressed Men. Fashion bible Vanity has also confirmed his firm standing in fashion, he was included in the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame List.

In a further emotional tribute, The Rolling Stones official website has removed all of its content. The site now features a black screen with a photo of Watts prominently centre in celebration of his influence, passion and enduring legacy.

Back to Stockport will be centred around Blossoms’ seminal live performance at Stockport County FC’s Edgeley Park, which took place in June of 2019. The five-piece band will offer an intimate reflection of the Edgeley Park show, their homecoming gig which shifted the trajectory of Blossoms’ now-thriving career. 

Late last night (November 2nd), Blossoms shared the trailer for Back to Stockport via their official YouTube channel. The intriguing snippet opens with an intimate look into Blossoms at the studio, with lead vocalist Tom Odgen jesting around during the making of their hit song, I Can’t Stand It. 

The trailer offers glimpses of life on the road for the band, from both the panic-filled and peaceful moments. Fans were certainly pleased with the teaser trailer, as the post has already reaped 117,000 likes. 

Back to Stockport will be directed by English filmmaker Charlie Watts. Blossoms relayed their excitement behind the collaboration with Watts, with whom they have worked closely over the years. Blossoms said in an official statement: “We have worked with Charlie on and off since the band started really, so when the opportunity to make something together surrounding the homecoming show in Stockport came about, we jumped at the chance.”

The Mancunian quintet spoke highly of Watts, whom they believe to have encapsulated the spirit of Blossoms perfectly. Blossoms stated that: “We think he’s really captured the spirit of the band, and being a friend, he was able to get the natural moments you don’t normally see in a band documentary. We love the film and hope you do too!”

Charlie Watts relayed his own excitement for Back to Stockport. Director Watts said: “To be able to make a film about them playing to a sold-out show in our home town of Stockport was something I’ll never forget. I think the film gives an intimate insight into the amazing bond and togetherness this band has. They grew up as best friends and it really does show on the screen.”

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‘Blossoms: Back To Stockport’ is a brand new film by our friend @charlie_j_watts, focusing on our headline homecoming show at Edgeley Park in Stockport last year, featuring interviews, behind the scenes & unseen archive footage. Join with us to watch the film’s premiere on Youtube this Saturday evening at 8pm at the link in our bio

A post shared by B L O S S O M S (@blossomsband) on Nov 2, 2020 at 11:00am PST

Back to Stockport will be a sure-fire success amongst Blossoms fans. Back to Stockport will feature an array of behind the scenes footage, personal interviews with each band member, and live footage of some of their best tracks. Live performances of Charlamagne, Blow, My Favourite Room, There’s A Reason Why and Girlfriend are all confirmed features on Back to Stockport. 

Blossoms took to social media to announce the fast-approaching arrival of Back to Stockport. Taking to Instagram, the band posted a 2-minute clip of the documentary. This provoked an ecstatic reaction from fans, as the video has received over 15,000 views. 

Blossoms released their third studio album, Foolish Loving Spaces, in January of this year. Foolish Loving Spaces is a ten-track record and contains songs such as My Vacant Days, Falling for Someone and The Keeper.

Back to Stockport is set for release on November 8th.