The Dynamics of Long-Term Friendship: Charlie Watts and Mick Jagger

The lasting friendship between Charlie Watts and Mick Jagger from the iconic band, The Rolling Stones, is a testament to the complexities of long-term relationships in the music industry. Despite occasional tensions and misunderstandings, their bond remained strong through the years.

Getting Along and Working Together

For the most part, Charlie and Mick got along pretty well. Mick has often spoken about their friendship, mentioning that they went to sporting events together. His sincere mourning after Charlie's passing further emphasizes their close relationship. However, like any long-term relationship, they had their moments of friction, disagreements, and misunderstandings.

High Tensions and a Standout Incident

An incident that truly stands out in their relationship occurred during an interview in Amsterdam in 1984, when tensions within the band were at an all-time high. According to Bill German, Mick made statements suggesting that Charlie was merely "his drummer," implying that the rest of the band wasn't as important. Specifically, Mick allegedly told Charlie, "None of this should matter to you because you’re only my drummer." This display of megalomania wasn't just limited to verbal insults; Mick also called Charlie on the phone repeatedly, asking loudly, "Where’s my drummer?"

The Clash and Its Resolution

The situation eventually came to a head. Charlie, fed up with Mick's behavior, decided to take matters into his own hands. Donning his best suit, he went to Mick's hotel room and knocked on the door. When Mick answered, Charlie punched him hard in the face, knocking him onto a platter of smoked salmon. Keith Richards, who happened to encounter Charlie as he was walking back to his room, asked him what happened. Charlie simply replied, "I just punched Mick Jagger in the face," and continued on his way with a casual demeanor.

Surviving and Ensuring Friendship

Despite the rough patch, their friendship survived. Charlie Watts told the Daily Record UK, "I suppose age has mellowed us a bit. Mick is a great person if you've got a problem." This statement indicates that as they aged, their relationship matured, allowing them to handle their differences with more maturity and understanding. They remained good friends until Charlie's death, demonstrating the resilience of their long-term bond.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the dynamic between Charlie Watts and Mick Jagger shows that even in the most demanding and high-profile careers, long-term friendships can withstand occasional challenges and disagreements. Their relationship is a shining example of the constancy of true friendship.