Rod Stewart is a British rock singer and songwriter who rose to prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a member of the bands Faces and the Jeff Beck Group. Born on January 10, 1945, in London, England, Stewart embarked on a successful solo career in the early 1970s and quickly became known for his raspy voice, charismatic stage presence, and distinctive style.
Stewart’s solo career took off with the release of his album “Every Picture Tells a Story” in 1971, which featured the hit single “Maggie May.” The song became an international success and catapulted Stewart to fame as a solo artist. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Stewart released a string of hit albums and singles, including “You Wear It Well,” “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright),” “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?,” and “Forever Young.”
Stewart’s music spans various genres, including rock, pop, blues, and soul, and he is known for his versatile vocal abilities and eclectic musical influences. His distinctive voice and expressive performances have earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.
In addition to his music career, Stewart is also known for his flamboyant persona, distinctive fashion sense, and colorful personal life. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame.
With a career spanning over five decades, Rod Stewart remains one of the most enduring and iconic figures in the history of rock music. His influence can be felt across generations, and his music continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
1. Maggie May
“Maggie May” is a classic rock song by Rod Stewart, released in 1971 as the lead single from his album “Every Picture Tells a Story.” The song was written by Stewart and Martin Quittenton.
“Maggie May” is characterized by its catchy melody, memorable guitar riff, and Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals. The song features a blend of rock, folk, and blues elements, reflecting Stewart’s eclectic musical style.
Lyrically, “Maggie May” tells the story of a young man who falls for an older woman named Maggie May. The lyrics recount their passionate affair and the emotional turmoil that ensues when Maggie May leaves him for another man.
The song’s infectious chorus, “Oh, Maggie, I couldn’t have tried any more,” has become iconic and is often remembered as one of Stewart’s signature songs.
“Maggie May” was a massive commercial success, topping the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. It received critical acclaim and has since become one of Stewart’s most beloved and enduring hits.
With its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and heartbreak, “Maggie May” remains a classic of the rock genre and continues to be celebrated by fans of all ages.
2. The First Cut Is the Deepest
“The First Cut Is the Deepest” is a song originally written by Cat Stevens (now known as Yusuf Islam) in 1967, and later made famous by various artists, including Rod Stewart. Stewart’s version was released in 1977 as a single from his album “A Night on the Town.”
“The First Cut Is the Deepest” is characterized by its soulful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Stewart’s emotive vocals. The song features a stripped-down arrangement, with acoustic guitar and subtle instrumentation, allowing Stewart’s voice to take center stage.
Lyrically, “The First Cut Is the Deepest” explores the pain of heartbreak and the difficulty of moving on from a past relationship. The song’s title refers to the idea that the emotional scars left by a first love are the deepest and hardest to heal.
Stewart’s rendition of “The First Cut Is the Deepest” became one of his most successful singles, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. His soulful interpretation of the song resonated with audiences, earning praise from fans and critics alike.
“The First Cut Is the Deepest” has since become a classic of the pop-rock genre and has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. Its timeless message of love and loss continues to resonate with listeners, making it a beloved favorite among fans of Rod Stewart and classic rock music.
3. You’re In My Heart
“You’re in My Heart (The Final Acclaim)” is a song by British rock singer Rod Stewart, released in 1977 as a single from his album “Foot Loose & Fancy Free.” The song was written by Stewart himself and became one of his signature hits.
“You’re in My Heart” is a heartfelt rock ballad with a catchy melody and memorable chorus. The lyrics express Stewart’s deep affection and admiration for his romantic partner, celebrating the love and joy she brings into his life.
The song features Stewart’s raspy and emotive vocals, accompanied by a driving rhythm section, soulful guitar licks, and energetic piano melodies. The combination of Stewart’s powerful voice and the song’s dynamic instrumentation creates a captivating and anthemic sound.
“You’re in My Heart” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. It remains a fan favorite and a staple of Rod Stewart’s live performances, cherished for its timeless appeal and heartfelt sentiment.
4. Tonight’s the Night
“Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” is a classic rock song by Rod Stewart, released in 1976 as the lead single from his album “A Night on the Town.”
“Tonight’s the Night” is characterized by its smooth groove, soulful vocals, and romantic lyrics. The song features a laid-back rhythm, with Stewart’s signature raspy voice conveying a sense of intimacy and passion.
Lyrically, “Tonight’s the Night” is a seductive and romantic ballad, with Stewart expressing his desire to spend a night of passion with his lover. The song’s chorus, “Tonight’s the night, it’s gonna be alright,” captures the anticipation and excitement of the moment.
“Tonight’s the Night” was a massive commercial success, topping the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. It became one of Stewart’s most iconic and enduring songs, earning him widespread acclaim and establishing him as a leading figure in the rock music scene of the 1970s.
With its sultry melody and evocative lyrics, “Tonight’s the Night” remains a favorite among fans of Rod Stewart and classic rock music. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with listeners, making it a classic of the genre.
5. You Wear It Well
“You Wear It Well” is a song by British rock singer Rod Stewart, released in 1972 as a single from his album “Never a Dull Moment.” The song was written by Stewart and Martin Quittenton.
“You Wear It Well” is a catchy and upbeat rock song with a strong folk influence. The lyrics tell the story of a man reflecting on a past relationship and expressing admiration for his former lover’s ability to move on with her life and remain stylish and confident despite their breakup.
The song features Stewart’s distinctive gravelly vocals, accompanied by a lively acoustic guitar riff and a driving rhythm section. The catchy melody and memorable chorus contribute to the song’s infectious and timeless appeal.
“You Wear It Well” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. It remains one of Rod Stewart’s most beloved songs, celebrated for its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and irresistible rock vibe.
6. Forever Young
“Forever Young” is a song by Rod Stewart, released in 1988 as a single from his album “Out of Order.” The song was written by Stewart and Jim Cregan, and it has become one of Stewart’s most enduring and beloved tracks.
“Forever Young” is characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and uplifting melody. The song reflects on the passage of time and offers words of wisdom and encouragement to a loved one, expressing the desire for them to stay young at heart and cherish each moment.
Stewart’s emotive vocals and the song’s stirring instrumentation, including acoustic guitar and piano, contribute to its timeless appeal. The chorus, with its iconic refrain “May the good Lord be with you down every road you roam, and may sunshine and happiness surround you when you’re far from home,” has resonated with listeners around the world.
“Forever Young” has been embraced by audiences of all ages and has become a popular choice for graduations, weddings, and other special occasions. Its universal message of love, hope, and resilience continues to touch the hearts of listeners, cementing its status as one of Rod Stewart’s most iconic songs.
7. I Don’t Want to Talk About It
“I Don’t Want to Talk About It” is a song written by Danny Whitten, a member of Neil Young’s band Crazy Horse. It was first recorded by Crazy Horse in 1971 but gained widespread popularity through its later cover versions.
One of the most famous versions of “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” was recorded by Rod Stewart for his album “Atlantic Crossing” in 1975. Stewart’s rendition of the song is characterized by its emotional depth, soulful vocals, and stripped-down arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and strings.
The lyrics of “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” express feelings of heartache and vulnerability, with the narrator struggling to come to terms with a breakup and finding it difficult to discuss their pain. Stewart’s soulful delivery captures the raw emotion of the song, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
Stewart’s version of “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. It remains one of his most beloved songs and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, solidifying its status as a classic of popular music.
8. Downtown Train
“Downtown Train” is a song written by Tom Waits, and it was first featured on his 1985 album “Rain Dogs.” However, it was Rod Stewart who popularized the song with his cover version released in 1989 as a single from his album “Storyteller – The Complete Anthology: 1964–1990.”
Stewart’s rendition of “Downtown Train” is characterized by its polished production, soulful vocals, and memorable hook. The song features a driving rhythm and a lush arrangement, including electric guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals, which give it a contemporary rock sound.
Lyrically, “Downtown Train” tells the story of a man who takes a downtown train to reunite with his lover. The song’s narrator expresses his longing and determination to be with his beloved, despite the obstacles in their way.
Stewart’s cover of “Downtown Train” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics resonated with audiences, earning it widespread acclaim and cementing its status as one of Stewart’s signature songs.
“Downtown Train” has since been covered by various artists and has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and longing continue to captivate listeners, making it a beloved classic in the repertoire of both Tom Waits and Rod Stewart.
9. Reason to Believe
“Reason to Believe” is a song written by Tim Hardin, an American folk musician, and it was first released in 1965 as part of his debut album “Tim Hardin 1.” The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Rod Stewart, who recorded a version for his 1971 album “Every Picture Tells a Story.”
Stewart’s rendition of “Reason to Believe” is characterized by its soulful vocals and acoustic guitar-driven arrangement. The song features Stewart’s raspy voice conveying a sense of vulnerability and emotion, while the stripped-down instrumentation adds to the song’s intimate atmosphere.
Lyrically, “Reason to Believe” explores themes of heartbreak and resilience in the face of adversity. The song’s narrator reflects on the challenges of love and life, finding solace in the belief that there is still hope for a better tomorrow.
Stewart’s cover of “Reason to Believe” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song’s raw emotion and universal themes resonated with audiences, earning it widespread acclaim and cementing its status as one of Stewart’s signature songs.
“Reason to Believe” has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres, and it remains a classic of the folk-rock genre. Its timeless appeal and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a beloved favorite among fans of both Tim Hardin and Rod Stewart.
10. Have I Told You Lately
“Have I Told You Lately” is a song written and originally recorded by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison. It was first released on his album “Avalon Sunset” in 1989.
The song is a romantic ballad that expresses feelings of love, gratitude, and devotion. The lyrics convey a sense of appreciation for a loved one and the desire to express those feelings verbally. The chorus features the repeated question, “Have I told you lately that I love you?”, emphasizing the importance of communicating love and affection in a relationship.
“Have I Told You Lately” has become one of Van Morrison’s most popular and enduring songs. It has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, including Rod Stewart, who released a highly successful version in 1993 that reached the top of the charts in several countries.
The song’s timeless melody, heartfelt lyrics, and emotional resonance have made it a favorite for weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions. It continues to be cherished by audiences around the world as a classic love song.