The Rolling Stones kicked off their Hackney Diamonds tour in the United States, commemorating 60 years since their first tour in America. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood took to the stage in Houston, with Mick’s powerful voice and energy impressing fans. However, the absence of longtime drummer Charlie Watts, who passed away in 2021, was deeply felt by the band. Watts had been a member since 1963 and was instrumental in the band’s success.
In place of Watts, Steve Jordan has taken over on the drums for the Stones. Mick Jagger revealed that Charlie was adamant about the band continuing to perform live, even after his passing. The emotional void left by Charlie’s absence was acknowledged by the band members, who spoke about the special bond they share as a group. Despite the challenges, they were determined to carry on making music as a tribute to their friend and bandmate.
The Stones reflected on their journey as a band, recalling their humble beginnings and never imagining they would become one of the highest-grossing live acts in history. Mick Jagger, in his 80s, visited NASA’s Johnson Space Center before the concert in Houston, highlighting the band’s enduring passion for music and exploration. The Hackney Diamonds tour will take them to 16 cities across the US and Canada, where they will perform tracks from their latest album of original music since 2005.
Fans in attendance, like Savannah Welch, expressed their concern that each Stones concert could potentially be the last, adding an element of nostalgia and anticipation to the experience. Mick Jagger’s son Deveraux was among the audience at the NRG Stadium, where the Stones entertained the crowd with classic hits and new tracks. The legacy of the Rolling Stones continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with the band’s enduring commitment to their music and their fans shining through in each performance.
