Rod Stewart, 80, Owns Glastonbury Stage with Bagpipes, Bold Moves and Surprise Rock Legends

Rod Stewart turned 80 this year—but judging by his Glastonbury performance, you’d never know it. The music legend lit up the Pyramid Stage on Sunday afternoon with a high-energy, hit-filled show that had everyone on their feet.

Wearing a flashy tuxedo and backed by a full band and a glam squad of dancers, Stewart kicked things off with bagpipes blasting “Scotland the Brave.” It was a proud nod to his roots and to Celtic, the football club he’s famously obsessed with, reported the Guardian. Even his backing singers sported Celtic green, making sure nobody missed the message.

From the start, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a quiet nostalgia set. Stewart belted out favorites like “Maggie May,” “Forever Young,” and “Some Guys Have All the Luck,” keeping the vibe festive and full of fun. His signature raspy voice may be weathered, but it still carries that unmistakable warmth fans love.

There were footballs tossed into the crowd, massive sing-alongs during “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” and even some cruise ship-style razzle-dazzle. But it worked—because Stewart knows exactly how to entertain. The crowd was right there with him the whole way.

Ronnie Wood, Stewart’s former bandmate from the Faces, made a surprise appearance to rock out on “Stay with Me.” Lulu popped in to sing “Hot Legs,” and Mick Hucknall from Simply Red joined for a soulful duet of “If You Don’t Know Me by Now.” Stewart even welcomed Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis on stage for a heartfelt birthday hug.

He closed the set with a massive group sing-along to “Sailing,” complete with a pilot’s hat and Celtic shirts all around. It was over-the-top, a little cheesy—and totally unforgettable.

Critics were mixed, with some calling the show a bit dated or cruise-y. But most agreed: Stewart’s charisma, energy, and pure love for performing made it a standout moment. For fans, it was a perfect blend of nostalgia and celebration.

And the timing couldn’t have been more special. With Glastonbury taking a break next year, this edition felt like a big send-off. Alongside modern stars like Olivia Rodrigo and The 1975, Stewart’s Legends Slot reminded everyone why he’s still a rock ‘n’ roll icon.

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