Glam Slam Guide

The gravel-voiced, leopard-print-wearing, football-scarf-waving rascal who turned Celtic soul into chart-topping, scarf-twirling glam gold.

Started as the ultimate rock frontman with the Jeff Beck Group and Faces, but when he went solo in 1969 he kept the rough edges, added a silk scarf, a feather cut, and a wink that could melt knickers at fifty paces.

The Glam Slam Essentials

1. Every Picture Tells a Story (1971) – Album Release (1971) – UK #1 / US #1The one that made him a superstar – “Maggie May”, “Reason to Believe”, “Mandolin Wind”. Raw, rootsy, and ridiculously sexy.

2. Never a Dull Moment (1972) – Album Release (1972) – UK #1 / US #2Peak Rod – “You Wear It Well”, “Angel”, Italian Strings, and that voice like whiskey and cigarettes.

3. Smiler (1974) – Album Release (1974) – UK #1Still glam, still gravel – “Farewell”, “Dixie Toot”, and the immortal “Sweet Little Rock ’n’ Roller”.

4. Atlantic Crossing (1975) – Album Release (1975) – UK #1 / US #9The move to L.A., the yacht rock shift begins – but “Sailing” is pure scarf-waving glory.

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Where to Start Listening Today (5 tracks)

1. Maggie May – the ultimate “woke up with the cleaning lady” anthem

2. You Wear It Well – the sequel that’s just as good

3. Stay with Me (with Faces) – because solo Rod started here

4. Sailing – the scarf-waving, football-terrace classic

5. Mandolin Wind – the most beautiful thing he ever recorded

Rod Stewart didn’t just do glam – he did it with a football rattle in one hand and a bottle of champagne in the other.Turn it up, grab a scarf, and remember: some guys have all the luck.

Deep Dive:

Born: January 10, 1945, in Highgate, London, England.

Early Influences: Stewart was influenced by R&B, rock 'n' roll, and folk music. He drew inspiration from artists like Sam Cooke, Muddy Waters, and Bob Dylan.

Career Beginnings:

Busking and Folk Scene: Stewart started as a street busker and was part of London's folk music scene in the early 1960s.

The Jeff Beck Group: His career took off after joining the Jeff Beck Group in 1967, where he contributed vocals to albums like "Truth" and "Beck-Ola," showcasing his blues-rock style.

Faces: In 1969, Stewart joined Faces, a band that would become known for its fusion of rock, soul, and folk. Hits with Faces included "Stay with Me" and "Ooh La La."

Solo Success:

Breakthrough: Stewart's solo career began to overshadow his work with Faces. His album "Every Picture Tells a Story" (1971) was a massive success, particularly with the hit "Maggie May," which became his signature song.

1970s: Stewart continued to release successful albums throughout the decade, blending rock with soul and folk elements. Notable singles included "You Wear It Well," "Sailing," and "Tonight's the Night (Gonna Be Alright)."

80s and 90s: His style evolved, incorporating more pop and adult contemporary sounds. "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?" in 1978 was controversial but commercially successful. Albums like "Tonight I'm Yours" and "Vagabond Heart" included hits like "Young Turks" and "Rhythm of My Heart."

Later Career:

2000s and Beyond: Stewart has continued to release music, covering classics in albums like "The Great American Songbook" series, which were both critically and commercially successful. He also returned to rock with albums like "Time" (2013).

Collaboration and Covers: He's known for his collaborations and cover versions, including a memorable duet with Stevie Nicks on "Forever Young" and his take on "Have I Told You Lately" by Van Morrison.

Lifestyle: Known for his flamboyant fashion sense, especially in the '70s, and his love of soccer (he's an avid supporter of Celtic F.C.), Stewart embodies a rock star lifestyle.

Legacy:

Awards: Stewart has been recognized with numerous awards, including two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (one with Faces and one as a solo artist), a Grammy, and a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music.

Influence: His voice and style have influenced many artists across genres, from rock to pop. His ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while maintaining his unique vocal style is notable.

Cultural Icon: Beyond music, Stewart's persona, with his shaggy hair, raspy voice, and charismatic performances, has made him a lasting cultural icon.

Rod Stewart continues to perform, record, and maintain a significant presence in the music industry, proving his enduring appeal and versatility.