Keith Richards Share Charlie Watts Last Request

Upon the announcement of their new album Hackney Diamonds, Keith Richards revealed the last wish of the late Rolling Stones drummer, Charlie Watts.

On their recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the band promoted their upcoming album to be released on October 20. The host then asked them what it’s like to record without their late bandmate for the first time in years. Richards responded:

“Ever since Charlie’s gone, it’s different… I mean, he’s number four. He’s missing. Of course, he’s missed, incredibly.”

Richards then revealed Watts’ one final wish to the band. He continued:

“But thanks to Charlie Watts, also, we have Steve Jordan who was Charlie’s recommendation if anything should happen to him. [Charlie said] ‘Steve Jordan is your man.’”

While talking about their new drummer Steve Jordan, Richards said:

“He’s been a friend of ours, I worked with Steve. So, it was kind of natural progression. It would have been a lot harder without Charlie’s blessing, but, at the same time, it’s a hard team.”

Meanwhile, the Rolling Stones confirmed that two songs off their upcoming album feature the late drummer. These two songs, “Live By The Sword” and “Mess It Up,” were recorded before his passing.

Hackney Diamonds will also feature special guests such as Lady Gaga, former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman, and Stevie Wonder. Produced by Andrew Watt, who’d previously produced names like Elton John, Post Malone, Ozzy Osbourne, and Iggy Pop.