Sir Rod Stewart. Photo by Chyrisse. CPT_8038- — Sir Rod Stewart. Photo by Chyrisse.

By Wendy Hunter, Journalist, and Chyrisse Tabone, Photographer – Rock At Night, Tampa

Rod Stewart’s One Last Time Tour, Seminole Hard Rock Casino, Tampa, Florida – February 26, 2025

Inducted solo into the US Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996 and again in 2012 with the band Faces, as well as into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2006

The renowned Sir Rod Stewart, a Londoner who has charmed audiences for 60 some years, once again delivered his magic to concertgoers with a sold-out show at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Event Center. Stewart’s talents include musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is also known for his raspy singing voice that wows his listeners with hit songs, classic blues tunes, and even a few numbers with a disco beat. Most music lovers tonight were of the silver-haired variety, the ones in it for the long haul who have heard Stewart’s hits from the very beginning. However, all adult generations were there, and several under thirty-aged women seated near me repetitiously screamed “I love you Rod!” and clearly found his tunes (and him) very desirable. The audience as a whole often sang along (without prompting!) to Stewart’s well-known songs which speak volumes to his legendary long-time status in the music world.

The sound of bagpipes, most likely a nod to Stewart’s Scottish father, opened the set. The music lovers were already cheering. The band included three guitarists, a saxophonist, a keyboardist, and two drummers manning congas and a drum kit. Six female vocalists/musicians/dancers also joined, followed by the icon himself. When Stewart rushed on stage, the listeners saw his smile and heard his distinctive voice and went wild with more shouts and cheers. Many stood and clapped. He was hitting all the high notes of the song “You Wear It Well” while the concertgoers sang every word of the chorus. I couldn’t help noting that the song sounded so perfect it was as if I was listening to the ’72 album “Never a Dull Moment.” Stewart’s fluid movements across the stage and wide smile showed he loved being a performer. So, let’s review more of the highlights that followed.

The song “Young Turks,” with Stewart’s lyrics and fast conga drum-driven beat, was introduced and peaked in the USA at #5 on the Hot 100 chart in ’81. On stage, it was as if ’81 was back. Stewart also sang two songs, showing his versatility and admitting his love for the blues. During, “Rollin’ & Tumblin,’ a Delta Blues classic popularized by Muddy Waters, Stewart skipped across the stage and shook booty while serenading his crowd. He crooned “I’d Rather Go Blind,” an Etta James cover, only slowing while the saxophonist deftly coaxed his instrument to slowly and sadly express itself while the backup vocalists sang. The disco-y number “Do You Think I’m Sexy” spoke to the crowd while Stewart showed he clearly was.

This event truly had the class of a Las Vegas-style show. Each of the guitarists, the keyboardist, and drummers demonstrated their prowess in this tightly knit and accomplished band. And it seemed as if the six talented backup singers and dancers sometimes cohesively held everything together. During “Proud Mary,” these sparkly-clad young women also razzle-dazzled us with a style that would make Tina Turner proud. Their energy and musical talents were above par. They included fiercely played violins, drums, and an exquisite mandolin played during “Mandolin Wind,” as well as even the heavenly sounds of a harp introducing “The First Cut is the Deepest.” Throughout the concert, Stewart sported dashing attire from polka dot shirts, snug striped trousers, a shiny grey suit, and sparkling trainers, while male band members wore jet black suits with classy, loosely bound white ties.

During the Tom Waits cover song “Downtown Train,” Stewart sat and then reclined at the edge of the stage to happily croon and give “selfies” to the ladies much to the delight of several music lovers. It was an endearing and unexpected treat for a few, and demonstrated his care for those who love his music. I found time passed quickly during this concert, a sign of total immersion and joy in the live music experience. Sir Rod Stewart and his entourage are scheduled to perform in several cities in the southern USA (including at the Seminole Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida) before moving to Las Vegas and Europe. This is a must-see show for Stewart fans!