Rod Stewart took to the Pyramid Stage on Sunday, closing out the weekend’s legendary slot with charm, cheek, and plenty of classic hits, proving that at 80 years old, he’s still got what it takes to captivate a festival crowd.
Kicking off the set with the unmistakable sound of bagpipes blaring Scotland the Brave, Stewart made an entrance that perfectly set the tone for his hour-long showcase of hits, nostalgia, and good-natured fun. Despite soaring temperatures, festival-goers packed every inch of the hillside to catch a glimpse of the music icon in action — and perhaps to hear more of his headline-grabbing remarks from earlier in the weekend, where he casually suggested giving controversial politician Nigel Farage a chance, apparently on account of liking his brother.
Dressed in a glittering black brocade jacket with gold trim and a pair of flared jeans playfully decorated with star patches on the rear, Stewart was unmistakably himself — silver-blond hair, tan skin, and the unmistakable rock-star swagger that has defined his career for over five decades.
Among the sea of festival-goers were countless devoted fans, some proudly sporting Rod Stewart wigs despite the sweltering heat, a testament to his enduring appeal. Diehard followers had reportedly staked out prime positions near the front hours before Stewart took the stage, ready to soak up every moment.
A Set That Eased Into the Hits
Kicking off with Tonight I’m Yours (Don’t Hurt Me), Stewart chose to ease into his performance rather than launching straight into the biggest crowd-pleasers. It was a decision that left some in the audience waiting for the familiar anthems, but the mood soon lifted as Stewart declared, “We need music, we need to be together — and we’re having a party!”
While the party officially started with Having a Party, the crowd truly came alive during Some Guys Have All the Luck, marking the first real singalong of the evening. Despite recent health concerns that forced him to cancel shows earlier this month, Stewart’s voice held up remarkably well. His trademark raspy tone, aged yet unmistakable, carried across the festival grounds with the help of a talented backing band, sequined-clad backing singers, and even a touch of Riverdance-inspired choreography.
Between songs, Stewart took a moment to reflect on global events, highlighting the ongoing war in Ukraine. His cover of the O’Jays’ Love Train was dedicated to those affected, adding a note of unity and hope to the otherwise lighthearted set.
Nostalgia, Guest Appearances, and a Few Awkward Moments
The performance wasn’t without its quirks. Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright), with its famously suggestive lyrics, felt slightly out of place in the blazing summer heat, as Stewart crooned about loosening pretty gowns while the crowd fanned themselves from the sun. But the energy bounced back with Forever Young, accompanied by visuals of old photographs that drew cheers from the crowd.
Legendary performance by Sir @rodstewart at #Glastonbury.
Bloody brilliant.
No need for publicity stunts, immature chants or nonsensical rabble rousing.
Just an 80-yr-old musical star banging out hit after hit.
Watch & learn children, watch & learn. pic.twitter.com/r46LOPTI0b— John Nichol ✈ (@JohnNicholRAF) June 29, 2025
The beloved classic Maggie May saw Stewart invite the audience to start him off — but in the haze of sun and festival fatigue, the singalong stumbled. Still, the song’s momentum carried it through. Young Turks injected a much-needed jolt of 80s energy, with its driving beat and infectious chorus reviving both Stewart and the sun-drenched audience.
The mid-section of the set included heartfelt renditions of It’s a Heartache and I’d Rather Go Blind, the latter dedicated to the late Fleetwood Mac singer Christine McVie, a gesture warmly received by the crowd.
Also Read: MinRes Yilgarn Hub Sale Marks New Era in WA Iron Ore
Legends Unite: Hucknall, Wood, and Lulu
The biggest surprises of the evening came with Stewart’s special guests. Simply Red frontman Mick Hucknall joined for If You Don’t Know Me By Now, followed by a crowd-pleasing reunion with Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood for Stay With Me, which brought renewed energy to the Pyramid Stage.
Rod Stewart’s Legends Slot took a nostalgic twist as Rolling Stones’ Ronnie Wood joined him on stage for a storming Stay With Me. Rod also introduced Lulu a song too early — “Oops, next one!” he laughed — A set full of surprises and charm at Glastonbury 2025… 👅🎸
🎥 BBC pic.twitter.com/7gFAFSr23P
— Glasto Fest Feed (@GlastoFestFeed) June 29, 2025
Perhaps the most joyful moment of the set arrived with Lulu, who joined Stewart for a playful rendition of Hot Legs. The chemistry between the two, combined with throwback photos of Stewart’s own famously admired legs displayed on screen, struck the perfect balance between cheeky nostalgia and self-aware humour.
Sailing Towards the Finish
Bringing the set to a close with Sailing, Stewart’s voice, though weathered, carried the song’s message of longing and connection across Worthy Farm. The crowd, though slightly rod subdued by the heat, swayed and sang along, content to bask in the presence of a living legend.
While not every moment of the set was polished or pitch-perfect, the heart, humour, and enduring charisma of Rod Stewart ensured the performance was a memorable highlight of the weekend. Backed by his talented guests and the energy of the Glastonbury faithful, Stewart’s legends slot was a reminder that some stars never truly fade — they just age into their iconic status with a knowing rod wink and a few sequins.
