Cosmic Psychos Guitarist Robbie Watts Dies
by Andrew Tijs
July 3 2006
Robbie Watts, guitarist for legendary Australian pub rockers Cosmic Psychos, died after a show on the morning of July 1.
Watts, who has been the lead guitarist of the band for 16 years, was on tour supporting their latest album ‘Off Ya Cruet’. After finishing a typically raucous and well-received set in Bendigo, Watts was found dead in a friend’s kitchen in the early hours of July 1.
Contrary to the rambunctious and blunt music of Cosmic Psychos (and his contributions to cult Melbourne rock band I Spit On your Gravy), Watts was a quiet and gentle man, a respected rocker and well-loved father. His trademark heavy guitar riffage also belied his abilities as an accomplished banjo player, and he could often be spotted busking on Melbourne streets.
He joined the Cosmic Psychos prior to their Butch Vig-produced ‘Blokes You Can Trust’ album and appeared on four more albums before their ball-tearing 2006 comeback album ‘Off Ya Cruet’. The band had been touring nationally on the album and have cancelled all remaining dates.
Watts leaves his children Rani, Billy, Dan and Lily. He was 47 years old.
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