X/@piersmorganPiers Morgan describing Rod Stewart’s Glastonbury performance as legendary and the Internet has something to say. The big-mouth broadcaster being a huge fan of the 80-year-old rock star went on social media to praise him post his Sunday night legends slot at this famous festival.
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Morgan shared an image of Stewart singing some hits with that trademark raspy voice and swagger, commenting: “Now THAT’S what I call a legendary Gladstonbury legend slot [performance]. Congratulation @rodstewart-you absolutely crushed it. Brilliant songs, brilliant band/singers, brilliant guests, it was all brilliant. And ya still sexy at 80!”
The reaction was immediate and mixed. Several quarters totally agreed with Morgan. “Wonderful performance. What a star,” commented one person, while other types were more like, “Seen him lots of times live, always brilliant. A real showman.” Such comments led to a flood of praises like “He was bloody brilliant, that’s how you do it” and “Legendary singer without the political rubbish.”
Prissy critics went against the general mood, with angry comments about Stewart like “His singing was horrendous. He really needs to retire” and “That would have been more suited to a cruise ship.” One particularly spiteful review said, “He was pretty off-key for a lot of it,” but made the caveat that it got better when Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood came on guest.
Whether to mention or to deny several sarcastic replies had political undertones. Several commenters talked about Stewart’s well-documented allegiances to Celtic FC, one calling him “An Englishman pretending to be a Scotsman supporting a Scottish club pretending to be Irish.” Others just randomly dragged Nigel Farage into the matter. One particularly weird individual stated: “Piers promoting Rod who is Promoting Farage!”
The show was Stewart’s first Glastonbury gig after sixty years on the road. The rock legend delivered a hit-laden set comprising Maggie May, Baby Jane, and Do Ya Think I’m Sexy, shelved lightly with special guests like Ronnie Wood and Lulu. At 80, Stewart just proved that still has got moves, has a voice to back up those moves, and all the charisma that was once a giant in the world of celebrity.
Ironically, however, conversations around Stewart’s set soon became a touch overshadowed by the earlier Glastonbury controversy. Several comments referenced certain instances: One blind user chimed in: “The seriousness of what happened at Glastonbury cannot be overstated.” This was seemingly a reference to alleged protests during other performances, although the thread kept rather vague on the matter.
Now with all the tugging going on surrounding the Glastonbury set, one thing is crystal clear: The old timer knows how to keep them talking. Whether they’re hated or loved, it is one thing the elder statesman gave them the legends slot with exactly what it demands: a show worth remembering. And as one fan so well put it: “How MANY thousands there for this eternal star? Unbelievable turn out filled with joy – that’s what Glasto should be!”
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At 80, Stewart showcased the fact that Rock and Roll is about attitude and not age. And if anything, Morgan’s post would have it that that attitude still resonates deeply with the younger generation. The debate on his vocal abilities might just go on forever, but it’s undeniable that on the entertainment front, Rod Stewart is one of the most durable and entertaining showmen of all time.
