Rod Stewart Delivers Powerful ‘Forever Young’ Performance at 2025 American Music Awards

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 17: (Editorial Use Only and No Use In Publications devoted solely to the artist) Rod Stewart performs at The O2 Arena on December 17, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage)

The 2025 American Music Awards delivered its fair share of jaw-dropping moments and memorable performances, but none were quite as moving-or iconic-as the return of rock legend Rod Stewart to center stage. At 80 years old, Stewart proved once again that age is just a number, performing his timeless anthem “Forever Young” with a grace, passion, and magnetism that captivated not only the audience in the room, but millions watching around the world.
Dressed to stun in a black-and-gold sequined blazer, crisp white shirt, and tailored black trousers, Stewart exuded all the swagger and charm that earned him his place in the pantheon of rock royalty. His signature spiky blonde hair-still rebellious, still unmistakably Rod-glinted under the stage lights as he took his place at the mic.
From the very first note, it was clear that this performance was going to be more than just a nostalgic throwback. It was a celebration -not just of a song or a singer, but of a life lived in music.

_acked by a powerful live band and a full gospel choir, Stewart’s raspy vocals rang out with all the soul and grit that fans have come to love over the decades. Guitar solos soared, piano chords whispered between verses, and the choir added a stirring depth that brought new life to the classic track. But what made the moment truly unforgettable was the emotion that Stewart poured into every word.
As the lights bathed the stage in warm golden hues, video screens behind him displayed a poignant montage of his storied career. There were flashes of a young Rod-hair wild, energy electric-performing the same song on stages across the world. Clips of sold-out arenas, award wins, late-night show appearances, and candid behind-the-scenes moments reminded everyone of just how deeply embedded his music is in pop culture history.
For longtime fans, it was a beautiful trip down memory lane. For newer audiences, it was a masterclass in timeless performance. And for Rod Stewart himself, it was a heartfelt statement: his spirit, voice, and message remain as powerful as ever.
‘n between verses, Stewart would flash that familiar grin, making eye contact with audience members who sang along word for word. It was intimate and grand at the same time—a rare balance only a performer of Stewart’s caliber could achieve.
As he sang the iconic lines

“May the good Lord be with you / Down every road you roam…”
the auditorium fell into a reverent hush, many in the crowd visibly moved. It wasn’t just the lyrics-it was the way he sang them. As if each word carried decades of lived wisdom and gratitude.

When the final chorus rang out, the choir rose behind him, their harmonies lifting the song to a spiritual crescendo. The last note lingered in the air like a prayer, and then-silence. For a moment, the crowd was too overwhelmed to react. And then, an eruption: thunderous applause, cheers, and a standing ovation that seemed to last forever.
Rod Stewart, misty-eyed and smiling, bowed deeply. In that instant, it was clear that this wasn’t just a performance. It was a moment of history.
Critics and fans alike flooded social media afterward, calling it “the performance of the night” and “a reminder of what real music feels like.” Hashtags like #Forever Young, #Rod StewartAMA, and #LivingLegend trended worldwide for hours. Even younger artists in attendance, including chart-toppers like Billie Eilish and Lil Nas X, could be seen clapping with admiration and awe.

Rod Stewart may be 80 years old-but in voice, in presence, and in purpose-he remains forever young.