Andrew Watt: The Producer Revitalizing Music Legends
At just 34 years old in 2025, Andrew Watt has established himself as the go-to producer for breathing new life into the careers of legendary musicians. With an estimated net worth of $50 million, he has become a powerhouse in the music industry, known for his ability to inject fresh energy into the work of icons like Ozzy Osbourne, Pearl Jam, the Rolling Stones, and Elton John. Now, it seems that another music legend is set to benefit from his expertise—none other than Paul McCartney.
Collaborating with a Beatle: “Professor Paul”
In a recent interview on the Rolling Stone Music Now podcast, Watt shared insights into his experience working with McCartney. Their collaboration has taken place “in little chunks of time over the past couple of years,” as Watt describes it, and he speaks about the legendary musician with deep respect. “He’s like my professor—Professor Paul,” Watt says, highlighting the invaluable learning experience of working alongside one of the greatest songwriters of all time.
A Legendary Endorsement: McCartney’s Influence on Watt’s Career
Beyond their creative collaboration, Paul McCartney played a key role in helping Andrew Watt secure one of his most significant projects to date—producing the Rolling Stones’ 2024 album, Hackney Diamonds. The record, widely celebrated as a powerful return to form, became another defining moment in Watt’s already stellar career.
Despite Hackney Diamonds winning the Grammy for Best Rock Album, some critics debated whether a band in their 80s should have received the award over younger artists. However, Watt remains steadfast in his defense, emphasizing that great music transcends age and that the Stones’ achievement was well deserved.
Defending the Legends: Watt on the Rolling Stones’ Grammy Win
“They are in their 80s,” Watt emphasizes. “They’re 82 and 83 years old. Tell me another band ever in history that has made a latter-day album that good in their 80s, with that level of songwriting, that level of performance?” His unwavering support highlights his deep respect for the Stones and their continued artistic excellence.
Could There Be Another Rolling Stones Album?
According to Watt, the Hackney Diamonds recording sessions produced far more material than what ultimately made it onto the album. While he stops short of confirming anything outright, he strongly hints that another Rolling Stones record could emerge from those sessions—suggesting that the band’s creative spark is far from fading.
Keeping the Stones Rolling: A Follow-Up to Hackney Diamonds?
Given the overwhelming acclaim for Hackney Diamonds, it’s easy to imagine Mick Jagger and Keith Richards feeling inspired to build on that success. If anyone can persuade them to return to the studio, it’s Andrew Watt—whose passion and ability to revitalize legendary artists have already proven invaluable.
Reviving Lady Gaga’s Signature Sound
While Watt has been instrumental in helping rock icons rediscover their magic, he has also played a key role in guiding pop superstars back to their roots. A prime example is Lady Gaga’s recent single, Abracadabra, which channels the dance-pop energy that first made her a global sensation. Co-written and co-produced by Watt, the track was crafted in a whirlwind session that perfectly captured Gaga’s signature spontaneity and creative spark.
Capturing Gaga’s Creative Energy
“She [Gaga] just heard something immediately, and grabbed the microphone and started flowing in the room,” Watt recalls. “Once there’s this initial kind of thing, she always runs to the piano because then it becomes a song—figuring out the chords, adding a crazy fun synth part, and seeing where it can go.”
This fast-paced, instinct-driven approach contrasts with another major Gaga project Watt was involved in—her 2024 smash hit Die With A Smile, a duet with Bruno Mars. Unlike Abracadabra, which emerged from a burst of creative spontaneity, Die With A Smile took shape through a more organic and collaborative process.
“Bruno was there with James [Fauntleroy], and they just started playing together,” Watt explains. “Gaga wrote out all the chords and the changing bass notes so she could know what she was going to play. Bruno was on the guitar, and they started breaking down the song together, really singing and organically arranging their harmonies.”
The Future of Ozzy Osbourne: One Last Show
Watt’s dedication to legendary artists extends beyond the studio—he’s now playing a role in a historic moment: Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert at Villa Park on July 5, 2025.
Though Watt remains secretive about his involvement, he confirms that he has been invited to participate in some capacity. “All I know is that I was asked to play in some concoction of things that they have put together,” he says cryptically.
One thing is certain—Ozzy is ready for this farewell. “Ozzy is really excited for this concert,” Watt shares. “Any time you give him a goal to hit or a challenge, he’ll do it.”
Having played a pivotal role in Osbourne’s late-career resurgence through albums like Ordinary Man (2020) and Patient Number 9 (2022), Watt’s presence at the farewell event feels like the perfect full-circle moment.
Andrew Watt’s Legacy: Shaping the Future of Music Production
At just 34, Andrew Watt has achieved what many producers only dream of. Whether working with rock legends or pop superstars, he has an innate ability to bring out the best in every artist he collaborates with. His deep understanding of what makes a great record—whether for the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Lady Gaga, or Ozzy Osbourne—has solidified his reputation as one of the most sought-after producers of his generation.
With a net worth of $50 million, Watt has not only secured his place in the music industry financially but has also made an indelible mark artistically. By seamlessly blending old-school musicianship with modern production techniques, he has become the perfect bridge between music’s rich past and its evolving future.
