| Full Name | Roderick David Stewart |
| Age | 78 |
| Birthday | January 10, 1945 |
| Birth Sign | Capricorn |
| Born | London, England |
| Relationship | Married to Penny Lancaster |
| Children | 8, including Kimberly and Sean Stewart |
| Height | 5′ 10′′ (178 cm) |
| Net Worth | $300 million |
| Social Media |
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With his raspy vocals and colorful stage presence, Rod Stewart has cemented himself as one of the most successful and iconic rock stars of all time. Over his illustrious six-decade career, Stewart has sold over 250 million records worldwide, placing him firmly among the best-selling musicians ever.
Humble Beginnings
Stewart was born in North London during the final months of World War II. Growing up in a working class family, he developed a love for music at a young age. As a teen, Rod would busk with friends on the London Underground to earn extra cash. He played in numerous bands while working as a gravedigger, sign painter, and newspaper delivery boy to make ends meet.
After a brief stint at art college, Stewart began seriously pursuing his musical dreams. His early bands like Steampacket allowed him to back up his idol, blues legend Long John Baldry. As his voice gained wider recognition, he joined acclaimed groups like Shotgun Express, Jeff Beck Group, and Small Faces.
A Solo Star is Born
While still a member of The Faces, Stewart released his first solo album, An Old Raincoat Won‘t Ever Let You Down, in 1969. But it was his 1971 classic Every Picture Tells a Story that cemented his status as a superstar. Hit singles like "Maggie May" and "Reason to Believe" demonstrated Stewart‘s skillful blend of folk, rock, R&B, and country.
Throughout the 70s, Stewart churned out one critically-acclaimed chart topper after another, including:
- Never a Dull Moment (1972)
- Sing It Again Rod (1973)
- Smiler (1974)
- Atlantic Crossing (1975)
- A Night on the Town (1976)
- Foot Loose & Fancy Free (1977)
I still remember hearing songs like "Maggie May," "You Wear It Well," and "The Killing of Georgie" constantly playing on the radio growing up. Stewart had an undeniable charisma that made him a true rock and roll icon.
Later Hits & Accolades
While the 1980s saw Stewart take a more pop-oriented direction, he continued cranking out hits like "Passion," "Young Turks," and "Forever Young." His covers album, It Had to Be You, was a nod to the jazz classics and standards that inspired him as a young singer.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, Stewart has earned just about every accolade imaginable, including multiple Grammys, Brit Awards, and a Kennedy Center Honor in 2016. Even today, at 78 years old, he continues to release new music and tour the world.
The Bottom Line
As both a fan and critic of rock music, I believe Rod Stewart is one of the most significant artists Britain has ever produced. His instantly recognizable rasp has influenced generations of singers. And with over 250 million records sold, he has one of the most formidable bodies of work in pop history.
But beyond the stats, what makes Rod Stewart so special is his spirit – the humility, passion, and fun-loving nature he brings to every performance. He‘s the quintessential rocker who never forgot his working class roots. That combination of talent and likability is why music fans across the globe have adored Rod Stewart for over 50 years.