Glastonbury Festival: Rod Stewart - A Sir's Surprise
So, Glastonbury. The mud, the music, the sheer madness of it all. I’ve been going for years, religiously, and honestly, I thought I'd seen it all. I've witnessed epic sets, legendary collapses (both stage and human!), and enough questionable fashion choices to last a lifetime. But nothing, nothing, prepared me for Rod Stewart at Glastonbury.
A Rock Legend's Unexpected Charm
Now, I'm a massive fan of classic rock. My teenage years were a blur of vinyl, air guitar, and questionable lyrics shouted at the top of my lungs. But Rod Stewart? He always felt…different. More Vegas show than muddy field, you know? Kind of like finding a perfectly polished Rolls Royce in a junkyard.
But there he was, this year, a shimmering beacon of unexpected brilliance amidst the usual Glastonbury chaos. I mean, I knew he was playing, I saw it on the lineup, but I'd kinda mentally filed him under "legacy act," something to nod to and then promptly forget about. Big mistake. Huge.
The Setlist That Shook Me (and the Pyramid Stage)
Let’s talk about that setlist. Forget the hits you’d expect (though he did play them, naturally). He went deep. We're talking obscure album cuts, B-sides, stuff I hadn’t even heard before! And somehow, it all worked. The crowd was completely captivated. People who were probably there for the younger acts – the Grimes and the Arctic Monkeys – were singing along to songs from the seventies. It was genuinely surreal. It was a masterclass in showmanship.
I almost choked on my lukewarm cider when he launched into a surprisingly energetic rendition of "Maggie May." Seriously, the man's got legs! The energy in the crowd was infectious – even the mud seemed to be vibing. My friend, bless her cotton socks, even started crying during "Sailing." Don't judge, it's a powerfully emotional song!
Lessons Learned: Don't Underestimate the Classics
My Glastonbury experience with Rod Stewart taught me a few valuable lessons. Firstly, never underestimate the power of a seasoned performer. These guys are legends for a reason. They've honed their craft over decades, and know exactly how to command a stage. Rod was a true professional. He connected with the crowd on a level that many younger artists struggle to achieve.
Secondly, be open-minded. I went in with preconceived notions, expecting a somewhat tired performance, and I was completely blown away. Sometimes, the best surprises come from places you least expect. Don’t just stick to your favourite artists. Branch out, check out other acts on the Glastonbury lineup, and who knows? You might discover a new favourite.
Lastly, invest in decent wellies. Seriously, this is essential for any Glastonbury experience. And pack some layers. Trust me on this. The weather is notoriously unpredictable, and being comfortable is half the battle. Mud and layers? Not a good mix. I also recommend a portable charger for your phone. You'll want to document the magic.
More Than Just a Gig: A Glastonbury Moment
Rod Stewart's Glastonbury set wasn't just a concert; it was an experience. It was a reminder that even seasoned artists can surprise you, that music can transcend generations, and that sometimes, the best moments are the ones you least anticipate. It's a reminder to keep an open mind and maybe even pack an extra pair of socks, you never know when you might need them.
This year's Glastonbury was already shaping up to be incredible, and Rod Stewart's performance cemented it as truly legendary for me. It reminded me why I love Glastonbury so much, why I keep coming back, year after year, to witness the magic unfold in the mud, rain and music. He really brought the house down.