Rod Stewart, the legendary British rock star, is gearing up for a spectacular return to the iconic Glastonbury Festival, set to perform the coveted legends slot at the 2025 event. This exciting announcement marks his first performance at Glastonbury since 2002, making it 23 years since he last graced the festival’s stage. Organizers confirmed this thrilling news, igniting anticipation among fans around the world.
The 79-year-old singer, known for his timeless hits, shared his excitement about the upcoming performance through social media. "I’m absolutely thrilled to announce I’ll be playing @glastonbury 2025! After all these years, I'm proud and ready and more than able to take the stage again to pleasure and titillate my friends at Glastonbury in June! I'll see you there!" his Instagram post expressed. This sentiment sets the stage for what promises to be a memorable set full of classics.
Stewart isn’t just stepping back onto the stage after two decades; he’s stepping back as the first act confirmed for the 2025 lineup, following the footsteps of music icons who have taken on this legendary Sunday gig. This slot has seen the likes of Dolly Parton, Shania Twain, and Kylie Minogue, each bringing their unique flavor to the Pyramid stage, creating unforgettable moments for festival-goers.
Emily Eavis, one of the festival's organizers, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Bringing Sir Rod Stewart back for the Sunday afternoon slot on the Pyramid stage is everything we could wish for." Eavis celebrated this special occasion, reflecting on the festival’s first “fallow year” to follow this performance, making it even more significant. She noted, “What a way to bow out with the final legends slot before we take a fallow year. We cannot wait!"
Rod Stewart’s impressive career spans over six decades, characterized by powerful ballads and iconic rock songs. His repertoire includes hits like "Maggie May," "Do Ya Think I’m Sexy," and "Tonight's The Night." It's these songs, along with his charismatic stage presence, which have made him one of the top performers to ever hit the Glastonbury stage. Given his reputation and the excitement surrounding his return, fans can expect to hear these beloved classics and more during his set.
Stewart's last appearance at Glastonbury was notable; he headlined the festival back then, delivering what many fans still describe as one of the festival's most unforgettable closing performances. His return, after such a long hiatus, has stirred discussions and excitement among music fans, many of whom are already planning their trip to Somerset.
This year’s Glastonbury took place under the sunny skies, featuring standout performances from contemporary stars like Dua Lipa, Coldplay, and American sensation SZA, who all headlined the Pyramid Stage. Each year, the festival brings together thousands of people, ranging from die-hard music aficionados to casual attendees, all eager to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy spectacular live music.
For 2025, tickets went on sale earlier this month and sold out within 35 minutes, signaling the festival's popularity and the fervor surrounding its legendary acts. Standard tickets for next year's event were priced at £373.50, plus a £5 booking fee. This quick sell-out demonstrates the immense demand among fans to see big names like Rod Stewart perform live.
While announcing his Glastonbury performance, Stewart also hinted at future musical endeavors. He recently declared plans to focus on smaller, more intimate performances, stating, "This will be the end of large-scale world tours for me, but I have no desire to retire." This is particularly exciting for his fans, as it indicates he will continue making music and performing, albeit on different terms.
Looking forward to the future, Stewart, who will turn 80 shortly after the festival, has expressed his interest in continuing to engage with his audience through more personal venues. He detailed his vision of focusing on the 'Great American Songbook,' hinting at possible tours celebrating classic hits.
Rod Stewart's upcoming performance at Glastonbury is shaping up to be one of the highlights of the festival calendar. His charismatic performances and dynamic energy promise to bring excitement and nostalgia as he reconnects with fans both old and new.
This legendary rock luminary's return will undoubtedly captivate festival-goers, setting the stage for another magical Glastonbury experience.
