35 Facts About Rod Stewart

Early Life and Beginnings

Rod Stewart's journey to stardom began long before he became a household name. Here are some intriguing facts about his early years.

1. Born on January 10, 1945, in Highgate, London, Rod Stewart was the youngest of five children.
2. His father, Robert Stewart, was Scottish, while his mother, Elsie, was English.
3. Rod's first passion was football, and he even had trials with Brentford Football Club.
4. Before music, he worked as a gravedigger at Highgate Cemetery.
5. Influenced by Al Jolson, Little Richard, and Bill Haley, Rod developed a love for rock and roll.

Rise to Fame

Rod Stewart's rise to fame was marked by his unique voice and charismatic stage presence. Let's dive into some key moments that defined his career.

6. In the early 1960s, he joined The Ray Davies Quartet, which later became The Kinks.
7. He gained attention as a harmonica player and vocalist for Jimmy Powell and the Five Dimensions.
8. In 1967, he joined the Jeff Beck Group, which helped him gain international recognition.
9. His first solo album, "An Old Raincoat Won't Ever Let You Down," was released in 1969.
10. Rod's breakthrough came with the 1971 album "Every Picture Tells a Story," featuring the hit single "Maggie May."

Musical Achievements

Rod Stewart's musical achievements are numerous and impressive. Here are some highlights from his illustrious career.

11. He has sold over 120 million records worldwide.
12. Rod has released 31 studio albums, with several reaching multi-platinum status.
13. His 1978 album "Blondes Have More Fun" topped the charts in the US and UK.
14. The single "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?" became one of his biggest hits, reaching number one in multiple countries.
15. In 1994, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist.

Personal Life

Rod Stewart's personal life has been as colorful as his music career. Here are some fascinating facts about his life offstage.

16. He has been married three times and has eight children.
17. His first marriage was to Alana Hamilton, with whom he had two children.
18. Rod's second marriage was to model Rachel Hunter, and they had two children together.
19. He is currently married to Penny Lancaster, with whom he has two sons.
20. Rod is an avid model railway enthusiast and has a massive model train set in his home.

Awards and Honors

Rod Stewart's contributions to music have earned him numerous awards and honors. Let's take a look at some of the most notable ones.

21. He received a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album in 2005 for "Stardust… The Great American Songbook, Volume III."
22. In 2007, he was awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music.
23. Rod was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2006.
24. He received the ASCAP Founders Award in 2011 for his songwriting achievements.
25. In 2016, he was knighted by Prince William at Buckingham Palace, becoming Sir Rod Stewart.

Interesting Tidbits

Rod Stewart's life is filled with interesting tidbits that showcase his unique personality and experiences. Here are some lesser-known facts.

26. He is a passionate supporter of Celtic Football Club.
27. Rod has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which he received in 2005.
28. He once busked on the streets of Paris to make ends meet.
29. Rod's distinctive raspy voice is the result of thyroid surgery he underwent in 2000.
30. He has a deep love for American soul music, which has influenced much of his work.

Legacy and Influence

Rod Stewart's legacy and influence in the music industry are undeniable. Here are some facts that highlight his impact.

31. He has inspired countless artists, including Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, and Bryan Adams.
32. Rod's music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials.
33. He has performed at some of the world's most iconic venues, including Madison Square Garden and Wembley Stadium.
34. Rod's charitable work includes supporting organizations like the Elton John AIDS Foundation and the Teenage Cancer Trust.
35. Despite his long career, Rod continues to tour and release new music, proving his enduring appeal and talent.

Rod Stewart: A Living Legend

Rod Stewart's life is a tapestry of fascinating stories and achievements. From his early days with The Jeff Beck Group to his solo career, he's left an indelible mark on rock and pop music. With over 250 million records sold worldwide, his influence is undeniable. Beyond music, Stewart's passion for soccer, model railways, and family life adds layers to his persona. His knighthood in 2016 was a testament to his contributions to music and charity. Whether belting out "Maggie May" or crooning "Have I Told You Lately," Stewart's voice remains iconic. His resilience through personal and professional ups and downs showcases a spirit that's both relatable and inspiring. As fans, we celebrate not just his music but the man behind the legend. Rod Stewart continues to captivate audiences, proving that true talent and passion never fade.