Rod Stewart at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena provided just what you would expect from the diminutive rocker – leggy women, shimmer in abundance and all the hits you could want and more. Having seen the 70-year-old perform three times previously, I did wonder if he would bring anything new to the stage. And if I’m honest, he really didn’t – that’s what made the show so great.
Here is man who, while trying his hand at different types of music, has remained true to himself and his craft. He is incredibly open about the stories behind his songs, in a way that few stars are. Never once did he shy away from exposing his softer side, nor his love of beautiful women.
Surrounded by incredibly talented, gorgeous women – and a few amazing male musicians thrown in for good measure – Rod took his adoring audience on a trip through the decades of his career. Bouncing around the stage with tremendous energy, the highlight of the show was, however, the acoustic time-out that just blew the crowd away.
Announcing that his good friend Molly Meldrum was in the crowd, Rod was delighted when Molly snuck up behind him on stage – a touching moment. And a nod to those serving in the forces, as his introduction to Rhythm of my Heart, no doubt had a few tears being shed.
Right up until Do ya think I’m sexy closed out the show, Rod entertained his fans and left them wanting more. Would I go see him for a fifth time – definitely, and I don’t think I’d be the only one.
To get a real sense of how open Rod can be, why not watch this interview with Richard Wilkins from two years ago?
