In a night that blended nostalgia with pure star power, Rod Stewart and Cyndi Lauper lit up the stage in Florida with a vibrant performance of “This Old Heart of Mine” during their 2017 tour. Originally recorded by The Isley Brothers in 1966 and later covered by Stewart in 1975 and again in 1989 (with Ronald Isley), the beloved track got a fresh burst of energy when Lauper surprised fans by joining him live on stage.
Sir Rod, shimmering in a silver showbiz jacket, and Cyndi, dazzling in rose red with her signature pink hair and a glam black hat, looked every bit the legends they are. At 72 and 64 years old respectively, their vocals and charisma were as powerful as ever, proving that true talent only grows stronger with time.
Before launching into the duet, Cyndi shared a heartfelt story about her early days singing Rod’s songs in a cover band — a full-circle moment that made their performance even more special. It was Lauper herself who chose the song for the set, adding a personal touch to the show.
Their chemistry on stage was electric, and it wasn’t just a one-time collaboration. Rod and Cyndi have been friends since the 1980s, frequently sharing the stage and even touring together three times. Their long-standing friendship added warmth and familiarity to the performance, which has since racked up over 10 million views on YouTube.
Though “This Old Heart of Mine” didn’t originate with Stewart, his versions — especially this 2017 live rendition with Lauper — have helped keep the Motown classic alive for new generations. It was more than just a concert moment; it was a tribute to timeless music, enduring friendships, and the magic that happens when two legends share one stage.
