He was a jazz drumming student who was approached by the band after frequently running into them in London's rhythm and blues bars. In his 60 years with the band, he never missed a show, record, or tour after being put in the drum seat. He was present during the Stones' global ascent, the swinging 1960s, the early attempt at superstardom, and the decadent 1970s, which are best exemplified by the legendary Exile on Main Street record from 1972. By the 1980s, Charlie was facing his own demons, but he overcame them and went on to further solidify his unrivalled reputation throughout the next decades. Despite band breakups, bereavements, and personnel, manager, guitarist, and rhythm section changes, Watts remained the rock band.