His lawyer said Watkins was "ashamed and appalled" by what had happened but that he was a “kind and gentle” man.
Shockingly, he added that Watkins only pleaded guilty to the 13 child sex offences, including the attempted rape of a baby, to avoid a trial and has been "vilified" in the press.
However the court descrimed Watkins as a "determined and committed paedophile".
The judge sentenced him to 29 years in prison followed by a further six years on licence after his release. This means he will be released from jail but will need to meet certain pre-agreed conditions while on release.
Following sentencing this afternoon, Watkins was seen shaking as he left the dock to audible cheers.
Watkins previously denied being a paedophile and told a woman:
"I'm going to put out a statement on the 18th just to say it was mega lolz.
"I do not know what everybody is getting so freaked out about."
Watkins was described as a "significant risk" to young women and children, and a "deeply corrupting influence" and a "sexual predator".
In sentencing him the judge said he showed "evident delight in abusing children and an almost complete lack of remorse for his behaviour".
He will serve two-thirds of the sentence before he can appeal.
Two female fans of the singer, and mothers of the children he is accused of abusing, were also sentenced today.
Woman A has been jailed for 14 years, and Woman B has been jailed for 17 years.