At 80 years old, Sir Rod Stewart lit up Glastonbury’s iconic Pyramid Stage with a performance that proved why he remains one of rock’s most enduring stars. Taking on the prestigious Sunday “Legends” slot, Stewart delivered a vibrant 90-minute show packed with nostalgia, showmanship, and a few surprises along the way.
The setlist was a 21-song journey through his greatest hits, featuring timeless anthems like “Tonight I’m Yours,” “Maggie May,” “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” “Young Turks,” and “Forever Young.” The show reached an emotional peak during the finale, as Stewart closed with “Sailing,” joined by his band dressed in sailor caps — a powerful, unifying moment that resonated with the massive crowd.
With its high production value, the performance was described as “Vegas-style razzmatazz,” complete with costume changes — including Stewart’s bold pink suit — and a troupe of dynamic backing dancers. Though some critics affectionately called it “next-level cheese,” the energy, theatrics, and crowd engagement earned widespread praise.
Stewart didn’t shy away from using the stage for more than music. He dedicated “Love Train” to Ukraine, using the moment to promote unity and peace, and subtly contrasted this message against more politically divisive performances seen earlier in the weekend. His subtle but impactful statements added depth to the spectacle.
Never one to avoid controversy, Stewart stirred conversation before the festival by voicing public support for Nigel Farage and the Reform Party. Yet even this didn’t dampen the audience’s enthusiasm. Battling the summer heat with humor, Stewart famously quipped mid-show, “It’s f**ing hot!”* — a comment that only endeared him more to the sweltering crowd.
Critics and fans alike lauded the performance, with many calling it one of the best Legends sets in Glastonbury history. Stewart’s boundless energy, stage charisma, and vocal prowess proved that age is no barrier to rock ‘n’ roll glory. At 80, he didn’t just perform — he owned the moment.
