Rod Stewart fails to impress at Glastonbury 2025

On June 29, 2025, Glastonbury Festival in England hosted a diverse range of performances, including one by veteran rock star Rod Stewart. His set on the Pyramid Stage was marked by a significant vocal struggle, described as 'totally shot', and received a lukewarm response from an audience who seemed to regret their fashion choices as much as his performance. Clocking in at around an hour, Stewart tried to engage the crowd with familiar hits but relied heavily on his backing performers for support as he struggled to deliver his classics fully. The spectacles included extravagant outfit changes and surprise guest performances, yet this was not enough to save the performance from mediocrity. Other artists that day included The Libertines, who provided a nostalgic yet uneven set, featuring some beloved older tunes but leaving the audience wanting more from their newer material. The contrast was stark as the crowd's energy wavered, especially when classics such as 'Can't Stand Me Now' did not resonate as expected. Despite their chemistry on stage, the overall performance was deemed uninspired by critics. Joy Crookes and Turnstile showcased the variety within the event, with Crookes captivating audiences with her soulful sounds, and Turnstile energizing the crowd with their raucous, chaotic performance style that left attendees revitalized for the festival's final night. Both acts successfully engaged their crowds and contributed positively to the festival atmosphere in stark contrast to Rod Stewart's sluggish attempt. Ultimately, the day highlighted the range of talent present and illustrated the variability in performance quality, pushing the festival-goers to reflect on what they value in live performances. The contrast between the successful sets and Rod Stewart's lackluster show painted a picture of a changing musical landscape, where even legendary performers must contend with the evolving tastes of their audience.