Instagram/@sirrodstewart
The rock legend Sir Rod Stewart has today offered an interactive experience that allows fans and collectors to build their very own Ultimate Hits collection from his ever-popular catalog. The 79-year-old icon announced the project via Instagram and urged his followers to visit “Rod’s Studio” by clicking the link in his bio to create their dream playlist before time runs out.
Advertisement
Accompanying that post was a short video of Stewart in the studio with that raspy charm setting the casual atmosphere: “Time is all yours.” His caption read, “I’ve put out my Ultimate Hits, today you can make yours! Visit Rod’s Studio to help me find as many of my tracks as possible before time runs out to make and share your unique version Ultimate Hits.”
For sure, this announcement cats-will-have-to-fight kind of nostalgic and loving reaction from the worldwide fan base. An Argentine fan cried outright in Spanish: “Estamos esperándote Rod…forever young,” referencing the classic 1978 anthem. Another user from Brazil said, “Foi feito exatamente para isso, todas as músicas cantadas pela voz do Rod são irretocáveis e destroem os corações pelas melodias,” thereby showering him with praise.
More touching was 15-year-old Matilda’s request to Stewart before his Cologne gig, “Would you consider singing Waltzing Matilda (Tom Traubert’s Blues)? Hearing it live would make my 16th birthday unforgettable.” Matilda continued explaining how Stewart’s track has gotten her through her teenage years, marking his truly multi-generational appeal.
Not all fans turned out with respect. User angusmccoattup offered the sharp-witted remark: “Surely this is a bit complicated for your geriatric fanbase!”- a jab at Stewart’s veteran status in the industry. Yet Stewart took the jest in good spirits, again showing he is really one of the sportiest gentlemen of rock!
Longtime supporters took to sharing stories about how Stewart’s songs scored their lives. Vera Gracinda said, “I have at least one song for every stage of my life…my thoughts drift away to the sound of his husky, sexy, and captivating voice.” Others got specific: one for a vinyl reissue of Vagabond Heart from 1991.
From that huge response, the spotlight was then again placed on Stewart almost six decades into his career. From South American rock fans to European teens and those nostalgic baby boomers, his track continues to build intergenerational communication. What this interactive playlist does is allow the old and new generation of listeners to reengage with his timeless catalog.
Advertisement
While some musicians chase clout, Stewart’s initiative shows an understanding that true longevity comes from meeting their fans where they are- in a stadium, on vinyl, or personalized digital experiences. The campaign smartly becomes a nexus that ties Stewart’s analog-era prominence with today’s contemporary track consumption preferences, proving that older statesmen of rock can innovate while staying true to themselves.
About the Author
