Rod Stewart is without a doubt a legend. With a career spanning five decades, he has done it all! It must have been the cherry on top for the Scottish singer to score a number one with his new album, Time, just last week! It proves Rod is still as popular today as he was back in the 1970’s.
Now embarking on a tour of the UK, Rod played his first of two shows at the O2 last night. Arriving on stage at 8.15pm, Rod came out to tremendous applause from his die-hard fans. The audience at the O2 last night were a mix bag, from twenty year-old fans up to couples in their sixties and seventies dancing away to his hits. This is a testament to his longevity.
Accompanied by a 14 piece band, the guys were all in suit and tie, with the women in black dresses, and then leather mini, red high heels and white top. It reminded us of Robert Palmer’s Addicted To Love video. Rod gave plenty of attention to his band, and even had them perform a solo song without him.
Behind him on stage was a visual treat! We saw footages of his beloved Celtic FC, Brighton pier and World War 2 planes. It was certainly very sentimental. Rod showed his softer side when his two young sons came on stage dressed up in Celtic gear. He also showed compassion to the fighting going on all over the world, and dedicated Rhythm Of My Heart to all the fallen war heroes. He also did another dedication, and dedicated Forever Young to his oldest daughter, Sarah. At the end of this song, a picture of murdered soldier Lee Rigby came on the screen.
Maggie May was a definite crowd pleaser, as was The First Cut Is The Deepest. We are sure there were a few watery eyes in the house! The audience sang along to every song and lapped up all the atmosphere. He saved Do Ya Think I’m Sexy until last, and that was again, a big hit with the crowd! I Don’t Want To Talk About It and Sailing had the O2 singing along, word-perfect. Brighton Beach, which features on his new album, was sung with compassion. A ballad wondering what happened to his first love, it was beautiful.
Rod’s stage presence is as big as ever. Engaging with the audience, he had everyone laughing along with him, and wasn’t afraid to take the mickey out of himself. Wearing multiple coloured suits, spiky blond hair and polka-dots socks, the charismatic singer had us in the palm of his hands. Rod’s voice is still as it was when he was in his twenties, he still has that huskiness which makes his vocals as strong as ever.
We salute you Rod!
