OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
Sir Rod Stewart is an artist whose influence spans more than five decades, and his distinctive voice has become synonymous with rock and pop music. From his early days steeped in folk and rock to his ventures into soul, R&B, and American standards, Stewart’s catalog showcases his ability to transform and experiment with diverse musical styles. With countless awards, including two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a knighthood in 2016, and a vast array of timeless hits, Stewart’s music has impacted generations of fans worldwide. Yet, beyond being an icon, Stewart is also a passionate music lover.
In 2018, during an interview with BBC Radio 2’s Ken Bruce, the legendary singer shared his personal list of “Tracks of My Years”—ten songs that have had an undeniable influence on his career. These ten tracks reveal Stewart’s deep admiration for a wide spectrum of genres and artists, from early blues to modern pop, showing how music from all eras shaped his legendary career.
Here’s a look at the 10 songs that made the biggest mark on Rod Stewart’s musical journey:
1. “Sonny Boy” by Al Jolson
A classic from 1928, “Sonny Boy” holds a cherished place in Stewart’s heart. The song was a massive hit, topping the charts for 12 weeks and selling over a million copies. Stewart fondly recalls how his parents played Jolson’s records at home, saying, “I was made to love Al Jolson.” The legendary singer’s ability to command an audience without a microphone left a lasting impression on Stewart. He recalled, “This man sang without a microphone, which to me is incredulous.”
2. “The Girl Can’t Help It” by Little Richard
The explosive energy of Little Richard’s “The Girl Can’t Help It” was a game-changer for Stewart. A staple of 1950s rock and roll, this anthem holds a special place in Stewart’s memory. “When I was little, my brother Bob brought this record home, and I put it on time and time again,” he recalled. Stewart’s admiration for Richard grew even deeper after meeting him personally, calling him “a sweetheart of a man.”
3. “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding
Stewart’s emotional connection to Otis Redding’s soulful “Try a Little Tenderness” is profound. He remembers seeing Redding perform live in 1967 and being moved to tears by the experience. “I cried my eyes out when he sang this song,” Stewart said. Redding’s rendition of the classic tune became one of his signature songs and left an indelible mark on Stewart’s musical style.
4. “Cars and Girls” by Prefab Sprout
Prefab Sprout’s “Cars and Girls” stands out as a surprising but deeply admired choice for Stewart. He praised the band’s frontman, Paddy McAloon, for blending pop and jazz influences into this track, calling it “just gorgeous.” Stewart also had the chance to collaborate with McAloon on his 2018 album Blood Red Roses, and although they never met in person, Stewart expressed his admiration for McAloon’s distinctive sound.
5. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Rod Stewart is no stranger to modern music, and he has a particular love for “Uptown Funk”, the 2014 hit by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars. Stewart declared it “one of the best records ever made” and praised both Ronson’s production and Mars’ performance. He even went as far as to say, “Bruno Mars is doing something totally brilliant,” comparing him to a modern-day Michael Jackson, but with a unique style of his own.
6. “Lookin’ For a Love” by Bobby Womack
The soulful ballad “Lookin’ For a Love” by Bobby Womack also earned a spot in Stewart’s list. Womack’s powerful, emotive voice resonated deeply with Stewart, who frequently cites Womack as one of the greatest soul singers of all time. Stewart even sampled Womack’s string arrangement in his own 1978 hit “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”.
7. “I Feel So Good” by Muddy Waters
Muddy Waters, a pioneer of the electric blues sound, was a significant influence on Stewart’s music, and “I Feel So Good” stands out as one of his favorites. “It was one of the first albums that I bought,” Stewart revealed. The track, from Waters’ legendary Live at Monterey album, was a major influence on Stewart’s own work with The Faces.
8. “These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You)” by Billie Holiday
Stewart’s admiration for jazz vocalist Billie Holiday runs deep, particularly for her heart-wrenching rendition of “These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You).” Stewart has expressed a profound respect for Holiday’s emotional range and her ability to convey complex feelings through her voice. He also performed a cover of her song “Crazy, He Calls Me” with Jools Holland on BBC Radio 2 in 2024.
9. “Three Steps to Heaven” by Eddie Cochran
As a huge fan of early rock and roll, Stewart cites Eddie Cochran’s “Three Steps to Heaven” as a key influence. Cochran’s rockabilly style and raw edge left a lasting impact on Stewart as he was developing his own voice. Stewart has spoken often about how Cochran’s sound shaped his early musical direction, along with the influences of Otis Redding, Sam Cooke, Bobby Womack, and David Ruffin.
10. “Cupid” by Sam Cooke
Finally, “Cupid” by Sam Cooke rounds out Stewart’s list. Stewart recalled first hearing Cooke’s “heavenly voice” on a transistor radio and being captivated by the song. Cooke, with his unique blend of pop and soul, was one of Stewart’s biggest influences, and the song remains a favorite to this day. Stewart expressed a deep regret at never seeing Cooke perform live, stating, “I wish I had gone to see him sing live.”
Conclusion
Rod Stewart’s list of favourite songs is a testament to the vast range of influences that have shaped his iconic sound. From the classic jazz of Billie Holiday to the groundbreaking rock and roll of Little Richard, Stewart’s musical tastes encompass many genres and eras. These tracks, each with its own unique legacy, continue to inspire the legendary singer. And for Stewart, these songs aren’t just favorites—they’re the cornerstone of his musical evolution, capturing the essence of the artist he is today.