Rod Stewart is a British singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1960s with the Jeff Beck Group and later with the Faces. He has been one of the most successful solo artists in the history of rock music, with a career spanning over six decades. He is known for his distinctive raspy voice, his energetic live performances, and his versatility in blending rock, pop, folk, and soul music.
Stewart’s early solo work in the 1970s established him as a leading figure in the glam rock and soft rock genres, with hits like “Maggie May” and “You Wear It Well”. He later incorporated more R&B and soul influences in his music, with successful albums like “Atlantic Crossing” and “A Night on the Town”.
Throughout his career, Stewart has sold over 120 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He has also been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, once as a solo artist and once as a member of the Faces. In addition to his music career, Stewart has also been known for his fashion sense and his distinctive spiked hairstyle.
1. Maggie May
“Maggie May” is a classic rock song by Rod Stewart that tells the story of a young man who falls in love with an older woman. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy lyrics make it an enduring favorite of fans around the world. Stewart’s soulful vocals, accompanied by a signature mandolin riff, capture the essence of the story and evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time long gone. The song was a huge commercial success upon its release in 1971 and helped establish Stewart as one of the leading artists of the era.
2. You’re in My Heart
Released in 1977, “You’re in My Heart” is a heartfelt love song by Rod Stewart, showcasing his trademark raspy vocals and dynamic songwriting skills. The song begins with a beautiful piano melody that gradually builds up to an infectious chorus that is impossible to resist singing along to. With lyrics that express deep and genuine emotions, the song captures the essence of true love and the way it can transcend time and distance. The memorable guitar solo in the middle of the song adds an extra layer of musicality to this classic ballad that has stood the test of time.
3. Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?
Released in 1978, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” became one of Rod Stewart’s most successful and controversial songs. The disco-influenced track features a catchy chorus, upbeat tempo, and an iconic saxophone riff. Stewart’s lyrics, which explore themes of sex and seduction, drew criticism from some who felt the song was too explicit. However, it was also a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning Stewart a Grammy nomination. Despite its divisive reception, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” has endured as a classic example of Stewart’s ability to blend rock, pop, and disco into a catchy and infectious song.
4. The First Cut Is the Deepest
“The First Cut Is the Deepest” is a classic song by Rod Stewart that deals with heartbreak and the difficulties of moving on. Originally written by Cat Stevens, the song became a hit for Stewart in 1977. The lyrics express the pain of a failed relationship and the struggle to find closure, while the catchy melody and Stewart’s soulful vocals give the song a sense of hopefulness. With its universal theme of love and loss, “The First Cut Is the Deepest” continues to resonate with listeners today, cementing its place as one of Stewart’s most enduring hits.
5. Have I Told You Lately
“Have I Told You Lately” is a romantic ballad by Rod Stewart that was released in 1993. The song was originally written and recorded by Van Morrison in 1989 but gained widespread popularity after Stewart’s cover version. The song features Stewart’s signature raspy vocals and a simple yet powerful melody that perfectly conveys the emotions of love and gratitude. The lyrics express the singer’s appreciation for his loved one and the deepening of their relationship over time. The song has become a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions due to its heartfelt message and beautiful arrangement.
6. Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)
Released in 1976, “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” is a romantic ballad and one of Rod Stewart’s biggest hits. The song features a slow and sultry melody that perfectly complements Stewart’s signature raspy voice. The lyrics express the excitement and anticipation of a night with a loved one, with Stewart’s emotive delivery adding to the overall sensuality of the song. The track reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become a staple of Stewart’s live performances. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality and Stewart’s distinctive style.
7. Sailing
“Sailing” is a soft rock song by Rod Stewart, released in 1975. It features an uplifting and emotional melody with Stewart’s characteristic raspy vocals. The lyrics talk about longing for adventure and the freedom of sailing, which can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically. The song became an instant classic and one of Stewart’s signature tunes, reaching the top 10 in several countries. The use of a synthesized orchestra gives the song an epic, grandiose feel that complements the lyrical theme. “Sailing” remains a popular and beloved song, frequently played on classic rock and soft rock radio stations.
8. Handbags and Gladrags
“Handbags and Gladrags” is a soulful ballad originally written by Mike d’Abo, but popularized by Rod Stewart’s cover in 1969. The song tells the story of a woman who was once wealthy and lived a luxurious lifestyle, but has now fallen on hard times and is struggling to make ends meet. Stewart’s soulful vocals are accompanied by a beautiful string arrangement, which helps to evoke a feeling of longing and nostalgia. The song’s lyrics and melody have stood the test of time, and it remains a favorite among fans of Stewart’s music. It has also been covered by numerous other artists over the years.
9. Some Guys Have All the Luck
“Some Guys Have All the Luck” is a song by Rod Stewart, released in 1984. The song is a cover of a 1978 song by Jeff Fortgang, but Stewart’s version became a chart-topping hit. The song is a classic rock ballad about a man lamenting the fact that some men have all the luck when it comes to love and relationships, while others are left alone. Stewart’s powerful and emotive vocals, coupled with the song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics, make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
10. Forever Young
“Forever Young” is a song by Rod Stewart that was released in 1988 as a single from his album “Out of Order.” The song became one of Stewart’s biggest hits, reaching the top ten in the US and UK. The song is a nostalgic ballad about the desire to remain forever young and to hold onto the memories of youth. It has become an anthem for graduation ceremonies, and it is often played at weddings and other significant events. The song’s popularity has also led to numerous cover versions and appearances in films and TV shows. Its timeless message and Stewart’s emotive vocals continue to resonate with audiences today.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
