Watch Mick Jagger Plays Piano Backstage And Charlie Watts Joined

BERLIN, GERMANY - JUNE 22: (L-R) Ron Wood, Charlie Watts, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones perform live on stage during a concert at the Olympiastadion on June 22, 2018 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Frank Hoensch/Redferns)
In this epic video, Mick Jagger begins singing “Worried About You” during a soundcheck at an empty stadium on the Rolling Stones’ 2003 40 Licks Tour. His other bandmates slowly join in to build a powerful musical crescendo. This rare footage, featured in the 40 Licks Tour documentary, simply captures the essence of the band’s chemistry.
The footage is particularly significant given the passing of Charlie Watts, the Rolling Stones’ legendary drummer, on August 24, 2021. He died at the age of 80. His death sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and musicians worldwide, which shows the kind of impact he had on the music industry. The Rolling Stones themselves expressed profound grief by dedicating their first show of that year to his memory.
Charlie Watts was more than just a band drummer, he was the steady heartbeat of the Rolling Stones. Known for his calm demeanor and impeccable timing, Watts’ drumming talent was the foundation that built the band’s legendary sound. Despite being part of a band known for its wild antics, Watts remained a reserved and elegant figure, earning respect both on and off the stage.
In addition to live performances, the band has released backstage videos showing the close bond Watts shared with his bandmates. In one such clip, taken from the 40 Licks Tour, Mick Jagger plays the piano backstage, and Watts seamlessly joins in, followed by the rest of the band.
At that time, Watts had announced just weeks before his death that he would not be able to participate in the continuation of the Rolling Stones’ No Filter tour, marking the first time in his career that he had to step back from the stage. His passing marked the end of an era, but his Rolling Stone legacy continues through the music he helped create.
Watch the video below to witness the magic of the Rolling Stones during their 40 Licks Tour: