Rod Stewart says goodbye to big world tours
The legendary singer plans to scale back touring but promises to keep performing closer to home.
The legendary rocker plans to step away from massive concerts but promises more intimate shows in the future.
Rod Stewart, the iconic rock star behind hits like “Maggie May” and “Forever Young,” has revealed that his upcoming One Last Time tour will mark the end of his large-scale global concerts.
On Wednesday, November 20, the 79-year-old music legend shared the emotional news on Instagram, explaining that while he is still in great shape and full of energy, it’s time for a change.
Rod Stewart reassured fans that this decision does not mean retirement.
“This is the end of big world tours for me,” he wrote. “But don’t worry, I’m not retiring. I still love what I do. It’s just time to play in smaller, more intimate venues.”
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The singer, known for his raspy voice and signature full head of hair, joked about his health and fitness.
“I’m fit, have a full head of hair, and can run 100 meters in 18 seconds at the jolly old age of 79,” Stewart said with his usual humor.
While his health remains strong, Stewart admitted the demanding lifestyle of globe-trotting tours is no longer for him. After decades of thrilling fans with energetic performances in massive arenas, he’s looking to focus on smaller, more personal concerts.
A new chapter for the legendary rock star
Rod Stewart’s career has spanned over five decades, making him one of the most versatile and enduring figures in the music industry. From rock anthems like “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” in the 70s to soul and R&B hits and his recent Swing Fever album, Stewart has never stopped evolving.
Looking to the future, Stewart shared his plans to shift toward more intimate shows, featuring music from the Great American Songbook and Swing Fever.
“I’d like to move onto a Great American Songbook, Swing Fever tour the year after next — smaller venues and more intimacy,” he wrote.
However, in true Rod Stewart fashion, he ended his announcement on a playful note:
“But then again, I may not…” he joked, signing off as “The Ambiguous Sir Rod Stewart.”
Rod Stewart’s One Last Time tour will take him across the United States and Canada, giving fans one last opportunity to experience his legendary live performances on the big stage. The tour will kick off in March 2025 in Austin, Texas, and conclude in St. Louis in August.
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For devoted fans who have followed Stewart’s incredible journey, this announcement marks the end of an era. His charismatic presence, timeless voice, and larger-than-life performances have captivated millions around the world.
The end of an era, but not the music
While fans may feel bittersweet about Stewart’s decision to leave behind massive tours, there’s comfort in knowing he’s far from finished. His desire to keep performing — albeit in smaller, more personal settings — reflects his enduring love for music and his fans.
Rod Stewart’s message is clear: this may be the end of big world tours, but it’s certainly not goodbye.
“I still love what I do,” he wrote.
For now, fans can look forward to One Last Time — a farewell to the iconic, arena-filling Rod Stewart — and eagerly await the next chapter of his legendary musical career.
