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Rod: The Autobiography
The extraordinary life and career of music legend Rod Stewart, in his own words for the first time.
With his soulful and singular voice, narrative songwriting, and passionate live performances Rod Stewart has paved one of the most iconic and successful music careers of all time. He was the charismatic lead singer for the trailblazing rock and roll bands The Jeff Beck Group and The Faces, and as a solo artist, the author of such beloved songs as "Maggie May," "Tonight’s the Night," "Hot Legs," "Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?," "Young Turks," "Forever Young," and "You Wear It Well." Now after more than five decades in the spotlight, he is finally ready to take a candid and romping look back at his life both on and off the stage. From his humble British roots to his hell-raising years on tour with his bandmates, not forgetting his great loves (including three marriages and eight children) and decades touring the world, Rod delivers a riveting ride through one of rock's most remarkable lives.
From the Hardcover edition.
With his soulful and singular voice, narrative songwriting, and passionate live performances Rod Stewart has paved one of the most iconic and successful music careers of all time. He was the charismatic lead singer for the trailblazing rock and roll bands The Jeff Beck Group and The Faces, and as a solo artist, the author of such beloved songs as "Maggie May," "Tonight’s the Night," "Hot Legs," "Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?," "Young Turks," "Forever Young," and "You Wear It Well." Now after more than five decades in the spotlight, he is finally ready to take a candid and romping look back at his life both on and off the stage. From his humble British roots to his hell-raising years on tour with his bandmates, not forgetting his great loves (including three marriages and eight children) and decades touring the world, Rod delivers a riveting ride through one of rock's most remarkable lives.
From the Hardcover edition.
Audiobook
First published October 11, 2012
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About the author
Rod Stewart
120 books23 followersIn the Sixties and Seventies, Rod Stewart was a jet-setting bon vivant and blond sex symbol with a grizzled-yet-buoyant voice. He tasted fame with Jeff Beck Group and then the Faces, but Stewart's most significant commercial success came as a solo artist. After garnering initial critical acclaim for his unerring choice of cover material, Stewart in the late Seventies began to lean toward self-mocking (or just plain cheesy) material. Although he didn't exactly maintain exacting quality control, Stewart's self-mocking charm and seemingly effortless singing have consistently kept him popular.
The son of a Scottish shopkeeper, Stewart was born and raised in London. After a short stint as an apprentice to a pro soccer team, he joined a series of local bands that included Jimmy Powell and the Five Dimensions, the Hoochie Coochie Men, and Long John Baldry's group, which eventually morphed into Steampacket. In 1967 former Yardbirds guitarist Jeff Beck enlisted him as lead vocalist for the Jeff Beck Group. Beck had lots of rocker cred in America, and this new group toured the U.S after the release of their 1968 debut, Truth. Petrified by the size of audience during the first night of shows at New York's Fillmore East, Stewart sang the opening number from backstage. The band was expert at flashy blues rock, and the power of Beck-Ola (1969) established Stewart as a rough-and-ready rock & roll front man.
In 1969 while still working with Beck, Stewart signed a contract with Mercury. His solo debut, The Rod Stewart Album (Number 139, 1969), was recorded with Mick Waller and Ron Wood of the Jeff Beck Group, plus Small Faces keyboardist Ian McLagan and guitarist Martin Quittenton. Stewart's material was a grab bag of mellow folk songs, bawdy drinking tunes, a taste of soul, and a couple of barrelhouse rockers. The album sold modestly; Jeff Beck Group fans considered it too subdued, but critics were impressed by Stewart's overall sound. Planning to form a new band with Stewart and the Vanilla Fudge's Tim Bogert and Carmine Appice, Beck disbanded his group. That project didn't materialize until 1972, long after Stewart and his buddy Wood had joined the Small Faces, soon redubbed the Faces. Stewart spent the next seven years dividing his time between that band and a solo career, recording a Faces album each time he recorded one of his own.
In 1970 the Small Faces made First Step, and Stewart released Gasoline Alley (Number 27, 1970). Their arrival was followed by tours of the U.S. Working as both group member and solo artist gave the singer ample opportunity to show the world the breadth of his interests. In the studio with the Faces, Stewart was simply a member of a quintet of equals, merrily banging out hard-swinging rock & roll. On his own, he was different; the moody Gasoline Alley amplified his reputation as an emotionally compelling storyteller. When Every Picture Tells a Story came out in June of 1971, the response was swift and strong. The record refined its predecessor's strong points, putting a rock & roll spin on soul and R&B items, and bringing some emotional heft to reflective folk tunes. In October, the album sat in the Number One slots in America and Britain, the first record to achieve such status. Its success was driven by "Maggie May," a Stewart-Quittenton song that has become one of classic rock radio's most resilient ditties. Before "Maggie May" had faded, Stewart followed up with a gritty version of the Temptations' "(I Know) I'm Losing You" (Number 24, 1971). The similarly powerful Never a Dull Moment (Number Two, 1972), with his own "You Wear It Well" (Number 13, 1972), was also a hit.
With two gold albums made on his own, Stewart's role in the Faces became strained. Other labels wanted a piece of the star, and late in 1974 he released his final disc for Mercury, Smiler (Number 13). Stewart hired veteran American producer Tom Dowd and Muscle Shoals session musicians to record his forthcoming Warner Bros. debut,
The son of a Scottish shopkeeper, Stewart was born and raised in London. After a short stint as an apprentice to a pro soccer team, he joined a series of local bands that included Jimmy Powell and the Five Dimensions, the Hoochie Coochie Men, and Long John Baldry's group, which eventually morphed into Steampacket. In 1967 former Yardbirds guitarist Jeff Beck enlisted him as lead vocalist for the Jeff Beck Group. Beck had lots of rocker cred in America, and this new group toured the U.S after the release of their 1968 debut, Truth. Petrified by the size of audience during the first night of shows at New York's Fillmore East, Stewart sang the opening number from backstage. The band was expert at flashy blues rock, and the power of Beck-Ola (1969) established Stewart as a rough-and-ready rock & roll front man.
In 1969 while still working with Beck, Stewart signed a contract with Mercury. His solo debut, The Rod Stewart Album (Number 139, 1969), was recorded with Mick Waller and Ron Wood of the Jeff Beck Group, plus Small Faces keyboardist Ian McLagan and guitarist Martin Quittenton. Stewart's material was a grab bag of mellow folk songs, bawdy drinking tunes, a taste of soul, and a couple of barrelhouse rockers. The album sold modestly; Jeff Beck Group fans considered it too subdued, but critics were impressed by Stewart's overall sound. Planning to form a new band with Stewart and the Vanilla Fudge's Tim Bogert and Carmine Appice, Beck disbanded his group. That project didn't materialize until 1972, long after Stewart and his buddy Wood had joined the Small Faces, soon redubbed the Faces. Stewart spent the next seven years dividing his time between that band and a solo career, recording a Faces album each time he recorded one of his own.
In 1970 the Small Faces made First Step, and Stewart released Gasoline Alley (Number 27, 1970). Their arrival was followed by tours of the U.S. Working as both group member and solo artist gave the singer ample opportunity to show the world the breadth of his interests. In the studio with the Faces, Stewart was simply a member of a quintet of equals, merrily banging out hard-swinging rock & roll. On his own, he was different; the moody Gasoline Alley amplified his reputation as an emotionally compelling storyteller. When Every Picture Tells a Story came out in June of 1971, the response was swift and strong. The record refined its predecessor's strong points, putting a rock & roll spin on soul and R&B items, and bringing some emotional heft to reflective folk tunes. In October, the album sat in the Number One slots in America and Britain, the first record to achieve such status. Its success was driven by "Maggie May," a Stewart-Quittenton song that has become one of classic rock radio's most resilient ditties. Before "Maggie May" had faded, Stewart followed up with a gritty version of the Temptations' "(I Know) I'm Losing You" (Number 24, 1971). The similarly powerful Never a Dull Moment (Number Two, 1972), with his own "You Wear It Well" (Number 13, 1972), was also a hit.
With two gold albums made on his own, Stewart's role in the Faces became strained. Other labels wanted a piece of the star, and late in 1974 he released his final disc for Mercury, Smiler (Number 13). Stewart hired veteran American producer Tom Dowd and Muscle Shoals session musicians to record his forthcoming Warner Bros. debut,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 670 reviews
June 18, 2013
I picked up this book with a bit of skepticism - after all, my mom recommended it to me, and my mom has not hidden her unadulterated, passionate love affair with Rod Stewart from me one bit throughout my life. Not a real love affair, mind you - given the multitudes of love affairs referenced in this book, I feel the need to clarify that point. Just a love affair from afar. Let's put it this way - if Rod Stewart had shown up at my front door at any given point during my upbringing, I would've given it a 84% chance that my mom would've walked out the door with him and not thought twice.
And now that I have finished this, I just have to say: MOM, you dodged a bullet. This guy was, how did he put it? Philanderer of all philanderers?
But also surprisingly funny. He appears to be rather self-aware, which made this book incredibly entertaining. He is unabashedly obsessed with his hair, model trains, and football. He also did a lot of drugs, trashed a lot of hotel rooms, was completely unable to keep dashing off after young, leggy blondes, and had a lot of kids.
But my ultimate impression is this - I never would've wanted to be married to Rod Stewart, but holy moly, he sounds like he was dang fun to hang out with. Also - 70's/80's rock? Anybody who survived that scene is crazy lucky.
Overall, thoroughly entertaining, with a side of "glad my mom married my dad and not this guy."
And now that I have finished this, I just have to say: MOM, you dodged a bullet. This guy was, how did he put it? Philanderer of all philanderers?
But also surprisingly funny. He appears to be rather self-aware, which made this book incredibly entertaining. He is unabashedly obsessed with his hair, model trains, and football. He also did a lot of drugs, trashed a lot of hotel rooms, was completely unable to keep dashing off after young, leggy blondes, and had a lot of kids.
But my ultimate impression is this - I never would've wanted to be married to Rod Stewart, but holy moly, he sounds like he was dang fun to hang out with. Also - 70's/80's rock? Anybody who survived that scene is crazy lucky.
Overall, thoroughly entertaining, with a side of "glad my mom married my dad and not this guy."
November 12, 2012
In honor of Rod Stewart's Rod: The Autobiography, here are eight life lessons and playlist suggestions I took away from this fun, juicy, honest book.
1. "Blondes (Have More Fun)": There's no shame in extreme hair maintenance.
Rod devotes the second chapter of his book to his hair, which, let's face it, we all want to hear about. And, as he says, maybe he is a bit extreme with his hair, but how many other people can say they're recognizable for the spiky tips on the top of their heads?
2. "Maggie May" and "Mandolin Wind": Stay true to yourself, and you'll go far.
Both of these songs were hits from Rod's "Every Picture Tells a Story," and also have a very Celtic quality that speaks to Rod's Scottish heritage.
3. "Rhythm of My Heart": Most definitely the rhythm Rod has followed for most of his life, so follow your heart.
Rod is known for being something of a philanderer and womanizer -- something he regretfully cops to in Rod. While I will agree with him that he behaved quite despicably to many of his girlfriends over the years, reading his book gave me more of an understanding of his actions -- he was quite simply in love with being in love!
4. "Forever Young": Sometimes you have to trust your gut … and sometimes, run from it!
Rod almost threw out two of his most famous songs: "Maggie May" and "Forever Young," for being "not good enough!" Always have confidence in yourself and your talents.
5. "Downtown Train": Everyone has a quirky hobby.
And Rod's is building elaborate model trains, railways, and landscapes. Go figure.
6. "Do Ya Think I’m Sexy": You can't please everyone.
Rod's take on disco was a tribute to the Rolling Stones, who had managed to mix disco and rock successfully. While the song gave him many new fans, it also disappointed many of his old fans, who felt he had sold out. Out of embarrassment, he took it out of his show, but then found that people were disappointed.
7. "Infatuation": Dive into what you're passionate about.
Rod is the master of infatuations -- with blondes, model trains, cars, football, and art -- and, lucky for us, he devotes a chapter to each in his book. It's inspiring (for the most part, leaving out the womanizing) to see the passion with which Rod approaches his interests.
8. "I Don't Want to Talk About It": Don't be coy. This is a phrase Rod has never uttered …
Because he lays it all bare in this autobiography -- every sex, drugs, and rock and roll moment -- with humor, candor, and humility.
Head to www.EverydayeBook.com for more eBook reviews
1. "Blondes (Have More Fun)": There's no shame in extreme hair maintenance.
Rod devotes the second chapter of his book to his hair, which, let's face it, we all want to hear about. And, as he says, maybe he is a bit extreme with his hair, but how many other people can say they're recognizable for the spiky tips on the top of their heads?
2. "Maggie May" and "Mandolin Wind": Stay true to yourself, and you'll go far.
Both of these songs were hits from Rod's "Every Picture Tells a Story," and also have a very Celtic quality that speaks to Rod's Scottish heritage.
3. "Rhythm of My Heart": Most definitely the rhythm Rod has followed for most of his life, so follow your heart.
Rod is known for being something of a philanderer and womanizer -- something he regretfully cops to in Rod. While I will agree with him that he behaved quite despicably to many of his girlfriends over the years, reading his book gave me more of an understanding of his actions -- he was quite simply in love with being in love!
4. "Forever Young": Sometimes you have to trust your gut … and sometimes, run from it!
Rod almost threw out two of his most famous songs: "Maggie May" and "Forever Young," for being "not good enough!" Always have confidence in yourself and your talents.
5. "Downtown Train": Everyone has a quirky hobby.
And Rod's is building elaborate model trains, railways, and landscapes. Go figure.
6. "Do Ya Think I’m Sexy": You can't please everyone.
Rod's take on disco was a tribute to the Rolling Stones, who had managed to mix disco and rock successfully. While the song gave him many new fans, it also disappointed many of his old fans, who felt he had sold out. Out of embarrassment, he took it out of his show, but then found that people were disappointed.
7. "Infatuation": Dive into what you're passionate about.
Rod is the master of infatuations -- with blondes, model trains, cars, football, and art -- and, lucky for us, he devotes a chapter to each in his book. It's inspiring (for the most part, leaving out the womanizing) to see the passion with which Rod approaches his interests.
8. "I Don't Want to Talk About It": Don't be coy. This is a phrase Rod has never uttered …
Because he lays it all bare in this autobiography -- every sex, drugs, and rock and roll moment -- with humor, candor, and humility.
Head to www.EverydayeBook.com for more eBook reviews
October 28, 2012
A good old romp: That's what Rod Stewart's life was, and that's what this book was.
Rod Stewart is not a great musician, let's be clear. He's an entertainer, with a phenomenal voice, who's been churning out hit records for forty years. Nor is he a great writer. And this isn't about to be nominated for a Booker prize anytime soon. But that said, he doesn't pretend to be anything other than a bloke who got lucky and made the most of the cards that he was dealt.
What he does have is a great sense of a humour and a general fun-loving 'you only go around once in life' attitude. That reflects in the way he lived his life, and in the way he recounts it in this book. It's never boring, never too serious and always amusing, as the pages wind their way from his very middle-class upbringing in London to the uber-luxurious mansion living in LA where it ended up.
By the end of the book, I'd lost track of how many Ferraris he's bought, how many long-legged blondes he's dated (and cheated on) and how many children he has. But I came out of it liking him. He's the kind of guy you'd like to join your table for a drink, the kind of guy you'd enjoy at a party. And the kind of author whose book makes for very light, entertaining reading.
Rod Stewart is not a great musician, let's be clear. He's an entertainer, with a phenomenal voice, who's been churning out hit records for forty years. Nor is he a great writer. And this isn't about to be nominated for a Booker prize anytime soon. But that said, he doesn't pretend to be anything other than a bloke who got lucky and made the most of the cards that he was dealt.
What he does have is a great sense of a humour and a general fun-loving 'you only go around once in life' attitude. That reflects in the way he lived his life, and in the way he recounts it in this book. It's never boring, never too serious and always amusing, as the pages wind their way from his very middle-class upbringing in London to the uber-luxurious mansion living in LA where it ended up.
By the end of the book, I'd lost track of how many Ferraris he's bought, how many long-legged blondes he's dated (and cheated on) and how many children he has. But I came out of it liking him. He's the kind of guy you'd like to join your table for a drink, the kind of guy you'd enjoy at a party. And the kind of author whose book makes for very light, entertaining reading.
March 13, 2022
I had the privilege of seeing Rod Stewart in-person 2+ times, once in August 1975 in the last days of the Faces and once in 1979 solo. (The + is because at a 1975 Led Zeppelin concert, Ronnie Wood came out for the encore – “the newest member of the Rolling Stone” – to jam and at the end, Rod Stewart was physically carried out to wave; I was in no condition to tell you what they played and he was in no condition to stand, let alone sing, so I guess it was a draw.) Whether these two performances can be considered concerts or just shows is debatable, just as whether this book is all that good is really a matter of opinion. Rod has been called “the laziest man in rock” because it feels like he does the bare minimum; there’s a lot of show and performance but it all feels a little sloppy, kind of frat house stuff, and while it’s entertaining, you can wonder where the passion and sweat are. His idols from soul and blues left it all on the stage because their audiences wouldn’t accept less but these shows felt more like Vegas or supper club stuff. Which brings me to the book.
Rod also has the reputation of being one of the nicest and down-to-earth guys you could meet., which I can easily believe because there’s not a bad word about anyone here, not even the publicist he fired who then went on to invent one of the great rock legends – or rock myths – to revenge himself upon Rod. (For those not up on the story, which I heard MANY times with only slight variations in details, Rod allegedly went to a bikers’ bar and “serviced” every customer there, on his knees, after which he had to have his stomach pumped; the quantity of “material” which had to be pumped was usually about a gallon in most of the stories I heard and anyone with even the vaguest idea of how many bikers would be needed to produce a gallon would see through the story but critical thought is not always a strong point here.) The most Rod said was that the publicist was very good at his job.
A huge middle part of the book is dedicated to the two protuberances on the front of his body, meaning his sexual and cocaine exploits, with names named, and how he could have maintained some of the relations with some of the world’s most beautiful women if he hadn’t been a slave to the lower one and how he almost lost his voice forever due to stuffing white powder in the upper one. As for the latter, he insists he wasn’t an addict, it was just part of the lifestyle, and as for the second… as he sings, “some guys have all the luck, some guys do nothing but complain.” There are a lot of crocodile tears here about he just COULDN’T stay faithful with all these beautiful women constantly forcing themselves on him. As a university professor, this has been less problematic for me and as a red-blooded hetero male, this could be my first case of ”penis envy” – but it isn’t. I hate whining from people who have it all but don’t appreciate it. He’s an excellent entertaainer but a better whiner than singer, and these parts really call for violins and hearts bleeding. He doesn’t blame the women for his broken marriages and relationships, he laments being and absent father (and when he is present, it seems to be all fun and games with the kids, nothing about the work involved in single motherhood.) If this had taken up a couple of chapters, fine, but it was at least 50-60% of the book and the fact that he feels bad about it doesn’t mitigate the number of pages he spends on it.
So, that’s it for me. If you just want a good time, on the page or at the show, Rod’s your man. If you’re looking for something a little less fluffy, he ain’t. I still love the incredible run of albums he had from the early to late 70’s, but starting with “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, almost everything just seemed like something to cash in on. This book felt to me like one more. (P.S. Rod: I got this book via an illegal download. Sorry. Cash in elsewhere.)
Rod also has the reputation of being one of the nicest and down-to-earth guys you could meet., which I can easily believe because there’s not a bad word about anyone here, not even the publicist he fired who then went on to invent one of the great rock legends – or rock myths – to revenge himself upon Rod. (For those not up on the story, which I heard MANY times with only slight variations in details, Rod allegedly went to a bikers’ bar and “serviced” every customer there, on his knees, after which he had to have his stomach pumped; the quantity of “material” which had to be pumped was usually about a gallon in most of the stories I heard and anyone with even the vaguest idea of how many bikers would be needed to produce a gallon would see through the story but critical thought is not always a strong point here.) The most Rod said was that the publicist was very good at his job.
A huge middle part of the book is dedicated to the two protuberances on the front of his body, meaning his sexual and cocaine exploits, with names named, and how he could have maintained some of the relations with some of the world’s most beautiful women if he hadn’t been a slave to the lower one and how he almost lost his voice forever due to stuffing white powder in the upper one. As for the latter, he insists he wasn’t an addict, it was just part of the lifestyle, and as for the second… as he sings, “some guys have all the luck, some guys do nothing but complain.” There are a lot of crocodile tears here about he just COULDN’T stay faithful with all these beautiful women constantly forcing themselves on him. As a university professor, this has been less problematic for me and as a red-blooded hetero male, this could be my first case of ”penis envy” – but it isn’t. I hate whining from people who have it all but don’t appreciate it. He’s an excellent entertaainer but a better whiner than singer, and these parts really call for violins and hearts bleeding. He doesn’t blame the women for his broken marriages and relationships, he laments being and absent father (and when he is present, it seems to be all fun and games with the kids, nothing about the work involved in single motherhood.) If this had taken up a couple of chapters, fine, but it was at least 50-60% of the book and the fact that he feels bad about it doesn’t mitigate the number of pages he spends on it.
So, that’s it for me. If you just want a good time, on the page or at the show, Rod’s your man. If you’re looking for something a little less fluffy, he ain’t. I still love the incredible run of albums he had from the early to late 70’s, but starting with “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, almost everything just seemed like something to cash in on. This book felt to me like one more. (P.S. Rod: I got this book via an illegal download. Sorry. Cash in elsewhere.)
April 20, 2025
2 Stars = It didn't do anything for me.
If you are a huge fan, you'll enjoy this book. If you think Rod's 'okay' and you like reading memoirs, you'll probably like this book. If you're neither of the above, you might want to just steer clear.
Rod starts from his birth, and continues up until 2012. I didn't find the book all that interesting. It is largely about the women in his life, and how he managed to hurt each one of them by various means ... mostly by being self-centred, and unfaithful. He had many children by many women.
He talks about football (soccer in the USA), model trains, collecting art, his hair, trashing hotel rooms, etc. He doesn't talk about his music as much as he does the other stuff.
A lot of reviews talked about how down-to-earth he was, and how they'd enjoy hanging out with him at a party. Not me. I'd rather talk with someone who has exercised their brain cells more than they have exercised their penis.
If you are a huge fan, you'll enjoy this book. If you think Rod's 'okay' and you like reading memoirs, you'll probably like this book. If you're neither of the above, you might want to just steer clear.
Rod starts from his birth, and continues up until 2012. I didn't find the book all that interesting. It is largely about the women in his life, and how he managed to hurt each one of them by various means ... mostly by being self-centred, and unfaithful. He had many children by many women.
He talks about football (soccer in the USA), model trains, collecting art, his hair, trashing hotel rooms, etc. He doesn't talk about his music as much as he does the other stuff.
A lot of reviews talked about how down-to-earth he was, and how they'd enjoy hanging out with him at a party. Not me. I'd rather talk with someone who has exercised their brain cells more than they have exercised their penis.
March 28, 2015
This book was amusing and easy to read. I saw Rod Stewart on Graham Norton promoting his book and it sounded interesting. He is quite a comedian and seems to be a lot of fun. I had no idea model trains were a passion of his, but I knew soccer was. He's definitely not someone I would have wanted to date seriously - he is obviously somewhat of a womanizer, maybe having TOO much fun? Lots of good pictures in the book. Books like these are always great for name-dropping. It is so funny that twice in this book - and only pages apart - he makes the statement that contrary to what you have heard, Gordon Ramsay never played professional football.
September 25, 2017
This is Rod Stewart's autobiography and I am a big fan of his music. When reading memoirs of rock stars, I know certain elements are prevalent: drugs, alcohol, being unfaithful, many wives, etc. This one had that, but Rod came across as an extremely likable guy.....and normal.
He seemed very impressionable in his early years which I found kind of sweet. Then he eventually stumbled into music as a young adult and I'm so glad he did. He didn't have an "entitled" sense of himself and I think I appreciated that the most. He had dreams and was surprised when they came true.
Overall, I enjoyed this one, even though Rod Stewart didn't do his own narration. Simon Vance was the narrator and he always does a great job. So 4 stars.
He seemed very impressionable in his early years which I found kind of sweet. Then he eventually stumbled into music as a young adult and I'm so glad he did. He didn't have an "entitled" sense of himself and I think I appreciated that the most. He had dreams and was surprised when they came true.
Overall, I enjoyed this one, even though Rod Stewart didn't do his own narration. Simon Vance was the narrator and he always does a great job. So 4 stars.
May 3, 2022
As per usual with these bios of rock musicians who got their start in the 60s, I was enthralled by the early days material and completely bored by the later stuff. I love learning how a rock star came up from nothing. Conversely, I loath hearing about their rich and famous excesses. So, I'd give 5 stars for the first half and 1 for the second part, but that of course is my highly subjective take.
January 22, 2013
I started this memoir immediately after finishing Pete Townshend's memoir and while reading I kept comparing it to Pete's book. I feel like I should write a term paper comparing and contrasting the two men. Both born in 1945 in England, went to the same clubs as teens, knew a lot of the same people, recorded at the same studios etc. However, the men are different as night and day. Pete is by far a better musician, a better songwriter and much cleverer than Rod. Also Pete is by far a bigger wanker. Rod is infinitely more pleasant to read than Pete. Rod is a hoot. Really funny. Loads of stories. I bet he is a lot of fun at a party. Pete Townshend takes himself soooo seriously that it was a relief to read a memoir where the person was able to poke fun at themselves. Lots of laughs about Rod's clothes and hair.
I'm not a fan of Rod's music. I could only name two of his songs prior to reading this book(though I recognized more when he brought them up in the book). While he does - obviously - talk about writing and recording his music, I found his comments on the music scene in general far more interesting than discussing his specific albums. Writing about the development of rock music and the youth culture; on the influences of blues and jazz and folk in rock; about how there was no blueprint on what to do and how to develop as a rock musician; about navigating the business side of the industry; about how rock became so segmented in the 70's and how little blending of styles there was (disco, punk, progressive rock, heavy metal, etc). To bring up the Pete/Rod comparison again - Pete wrote of his anguish when punk emerged - how he felt old & embarrassed & wanted to fit in & be cool like the punk rock guys. Pete admits to changing the way he dressed & befriending a younger punk guy to help him regain his coolness. Rod also brings up the punk movement and how Johnny Rotten called Rod an old fart. He wasn't devastated like Pete. He liked the attitude of the punks, the "just get up & do it" ethos, but didn't feel he needed to change himself to fit in. He also makes a joke about how his silk harem pants he wore at the time were much more comfortable than bondage trousers.
Thankfully Rod didn't spend eons on his childhood - a pet peeve of mine when reading memoirs. Only very very rarely does someone's childhood and family history warrant more than a few chapters. Rod establishes that he had a regular, happy childhood. Admits he was a bit spoiled. Then after a few chapters he moves onto his teenage years and his beginnings on the music scene and then the fame & fortune.
This memoir focuses much more on his personal life than it does on music. Which was fine with me. I don't think a lengthy analysis of Hot Legs or Do Ya Think I'm Sexy? is really needed. It's his life that is interesting, not his music per se. It was a pleasant change to read a memoir where the person is aware of what a huge role luck plays in someone getting famous. He is very aware. It's also refreshing to read about a person enjoying their wealth and fame and admitting they would be sad if it went away. Rod references a quote from Sting(whose memoir I have also read. He's more of a Pete than a Rod) and Sting says something to the effect that if his wealth and fame ended and he went back to living in a small apartment he'd be fine. Bollocks, says Rod. First, he doesn't believe Sting and then Rod says it would be terrible to lose everything - it's a lot of fun being wealthy and traveling the world and living in beautiful houses etc.
A large chunk of the book is devoted to his love life. He was a busy, busy man. And he really sticks to his type - blond, tall, gorgeous & young. I read Britt Ekland's memoir years ago & recall her being devastated by Rod and his philandering ways. He admits now that what he did was horrible. He explains (rationalizes?) his behavior by saying he was young, a rock star, it was the seventies, everybody was sleeping around, how could a young guy resist all these women throwing themselves at him etc. Personally I think no famous musician or actor should commit to monogamy until he is at least 50. And no kids until at least 55. Rod was terrible to the women in his life until Rachel Hunter. Ooooh, payback time. She was the first woman he was ever faithful with and she dumped him because he was old & stuffy & she felt trapped. He finally got it right with his current wife. Rod is old enough and mellow enough to (apparently) be faithful to her. He also seems to be a great Dad to his two youngest sons. As for his older kids - not such a great dad. I mean, how many times has his kid Sean been in rehab? Sean must talk a lot in therapy about how his Dad is so great with his much younger half-brothers and was a terrible dad to him. Tough luck there Sean.
Rod also spends a lot of his book talking about his various passions. While I am not into his hobbies of model trains & football & cars, I appreciate other people's passions. What is interesting in another person is their love & passion for something. It would be boring to only be around people with similar interests - I like hearing about things I don't know about and hearing about why a person likes something. I googled Rod after reading this book & came across a video of him weeping a few months ago after his beloved football won some big game. Awww. He really loves football. His chapter on collecting art was pleasant to read. I'm not into the period of art he collects but I respect that he immerses himself into learning about it & collecting it & about the joy art gives him.
This memoir would be a good beach read or airplane read. Quick, funny, nothing too taxing. A perfect frothy light hearted read. No need to love his music.
I'm not a fan of Rod's music. I could only name two of his songs prior to reading this book(though I recognized more when he brought them up in the book). While he does - obviously - talk about writing and recording his music, I found his comments on the music scene in general far more interesting than discussing his specific albums. Writing about the development of rock music and the youth culture; on the influences of blues and jazz and folk in rock; about how there was no blueprint on what to do and how to develop as a rock musician; about navigating the business side of the industry; about how rock became so segmented in the 70's and how little blending of styles there was (disco, punk, progressive rock, heavy metal, etc). To bring up the Pete/Rod comparison again - Pete wrote of his anguish when punk emerged - how he felt old & embarrassed & wanted to fit in & be cool like the punk rock guys. Pete admits to changing the way he dressed & befriending a younger punk guy to help him regain his coolness. Rod also brings up the punk movement and how Johnny Rotten called Rod an old fart. He wasn't devastated like Pete. He liked the attitude of the punks, the "just get up & do it" ethos, but didn't feel he needed to change himself to fit in. He also makes a joke about how his silk harem pants he wore at the time were much more comfortable than bondage trousers.
Thankfully Rod didn't spend eons on his childhood - a pet peeve of mine when reading memoirs. Only very very rarely does someone's childhood and family history warrant more than a few chapters. Rod establishes that he had a regular, happy childhood. Admits he was a bit spoiled. Then after a few chapters he moves onto his teenage years and his beginnings on the music scene and then the fame & fortune.
This memoir focuses much more on his personal life than it does on music. Which was fine with me. I don't think a lengthy analysis of Hot Legs or Do Ya Think I'm Sexy? is really needed. It's his life that is interesting, not his music per se. It was a pleasant change to read a memoir where the person is aware of what a huge role luck plays in someone getting famous. He is very aware. It's also refreshing to read about a person enjoying their wealth and fame and admitting they would be sad if it went away. Rod references a quote from Sting(whose memoir I have also read. He's more of a Pete than a Rod) and Sting says something to the effect that if his wealth and fame ended and he went back to living in a small apartment he'd be fine. Bollocks, says Rod. First, he doesn't believe Sting and then Rod says it would be terrible to lose everything - it's a lot of fun being wealthy and traveling the world and living in beautiful houses etc.
A large chunk of the book is devoted to his love life. He was a busy, busy man. And he really sticks to his type - blond, tall, gorgeous & young. I read Britt Ekland's memoir years ago & recall her being devastated by Rod and his philandering ways. He admits now that what he did was horrible. He explains (rationalizes?) his behavior by saying he was young, a rock star, it was the seventies, everybody was sleeping around, how could a young guy resist all these women throwing themselves at him etc. Personally I think no famous musician or actor should commit to monogamy until he is at least 50. And no kids until at least 55. Rod was terrible to the women in his life until Rachel Hunter. Ooooh, payback time. She was the first woman he was ever faithful with and she dumped him because he was old & stuffy & she felt trapped. He finally got it right with his current wife. Rod is old enough and mellow enough to (apparently) be faithful to her. He also seems to be a great Dad to his two youngest sons. As for his older kids - not such a great dad. I mean, how many times has his kid Sean been in rehab? Sean must talk a lot in therapy about how his Dad is so great with his much younger half-brothers and was a terrible dad to him. Tough luck there Sean.
Rod also spends a lot of his book talking about his various passions. While I am not into his hobbies of model trains & football & cars, I appreciate other people's passions. What is interesting in another person is their love & passion for something. It would be boring to only be around people with similar interests - I like hearing about things I don't know about and hearing about why a person likes something. I googled Rod after reading this book & came across a video of him weeping a few months ago after his beloved football won some big game. Awww. He really loves football. His chapter on collecting art was pleasant to read. I'm not into the period of art he collects but I respect that he immerses himself into learning about it & collecting it & about the joy art gives him.
This memoir would be a good beach read or airplane read. Quick, funny, nothing too taxing. A perfect frothy light hearted read. No need to love his music.
June 12, 2014
Not a bad memoir from a rock star type of book, but still, the vacancy I feel after I read it feels so large in my head and heart. At times charming, but alas, it is a life of sleeping with blondes, marrying blondes, having kids, the love of entertaining, the collection of 19th century art, and being rich. The one thing (among perhaps many) is not to move into a one bedroom apartment. The arena is his friend, and life is just a great kick.
The main reason I wanted to read this, because I'm not really a fan of Rod's music (nor do I hate it mind you), but an interest in Mod culture. He does touch on that, but as soon as he moves to America, it seems all lost... to me. Not him, he's having a great time. But for me, at least the way he is portrayed on these pages, he's zero interest. He does share a model train interest with Neil Young - but....
The main reason I wanted to read this, because I'm not really a fan of Rod's music (nor do I hate it mind you), but an interest in Mod culture. He does touch on that, but as soon as he moves to America, it seems all lost... to me. Not him, he's having a great time. But for me, at least the way he is portrayed on these pages, he's zero interest. He does share a model train interest with Neil Young - but....
May 30, 2013
Sometimes I read a musician's autobiography, and I like him/her more afterward. Other times, as with this one, I'm left wishing I hadn't read the book at all.
This felt more like bragging rights than telling the story of his life. I learned Rod Stewart is an unapologetic womanizer who loves football (soccer to those of us in the U.S.), trains, and flashy cars. And that's about all I learned.
Stewart comes from a modest family that appeared to be lower middle class. Yet, when his career takes off, he makes no mention of his family's reaction. Did he help them out financially? Were they happy for him? Were they envious? None of this is ever talked about. Aside from mentioning his brothers and father in the context of football, we learn nothing about their relationship.
There is an entire chapter on his hair. Granted, it's a short chapter and perhaps meant to be comical, but I did not need that much information on his grooming habits. There is also an enormous amount of football talk. I got the point that he loves the sport without the endless pages on the topic.
He takes us through all his relationships, with the women he lived with, married, and cheated with. He makes a point of letting us know they were all young and supermodels. Some had children already, so he briefly played stepfather. He also had a bunch of kids of his own along the way. (I lost count of how many.) Yet, aside from him pointing out what a big part he played in each of their births, it's like they didn't exist afterward. Was it hard for him to leave them when he toured? Did he take them? Did he ever see them after divorcing their mothers? After reading 400 pages, I don't know the answer to any of these questions.
I would hope there is more to Rod Stewart's life than the self-important fluff he writes about here. Though it says a lot about the man that this is what he chose to share.
This felt more like bragging rights than telling the story of his life. I learned Rod Stewart is an unapologetic womanizer who loves football (soccer to those of us in the U.S.), trains, and flashy cars. And that's about all I learned.
Stewart comes from a modest family that appeared to be lower middle class. Yet, when his career takes off, he makes no mention of his family's reaction. Did he help them out financially? Were they happy for him? Were they envious? None of this is ever talked about. Aside from mentioning his brothers and father in the context of football, we learn nothing about their relationship.
There is an entire chapter on his hair. Granted, it's a short chapter and perhaps meant to be comical, but I did not need that much information on his grooming habits. There is also an enormous amount of football talk. I got the point that he loves the sport without the endless pages on the topic.
He takes us through all his relationships, with the women he lived with, married, and cheated with. He makes a point of letting us know they were all young and supermodels. Some had children already, so he briefly played stepfather. He also had a bunch of kids of his own along the way. (I lost count of how many.) Yet, aside from him pointing out what a big part he played in each of their births, it's like they didn't exist afterward. Was it hard for him to leave them when he toured? Did he take them? Did he ever see them after divorcing their mothers? After reading 400 pages, I don't know the answer to any of these questions.
I would hope there is more to Rod Stewart's life than the self-important fluff he writes about here. Though it says a lot about the man that this is what he chose to share.
November 6, 2015
Reading this book revealed the obvious, Rod's life consisted mostly of alcohol, drugs, and beautiful women. The book seemed to focus mostly on the latter, and believe it or not, was a bit of a let down for me. I already knew most of this by just reading the tabloids over the years. What I was more interested in was the stories behind the music. I thought the book really lagged in this regard, and gives the impression that his musical career just kind of happened without much effort. Of course, maybe I'm just jealous of his charmed life.
July 13, 2016
I found Rod:the Autobiography to be well written with much humor, often directed at himself.
The story of Rod Stewart's life is an interesting and entertaining one, that's for sure.
I most enjoyed his stories of the early years, the years relating to the birth of rock 'n roll in England. Many names are mentioned that anyone with a love of music will recognize, but there is still much to enjoy in the stories of his later years.
Whether you are a fan of Rod the Mod or not, the book is entertaining and fun
The story of Rod Stewart's life is an interesting and entertaining one, that's for sure.
I most enjoyed his stories of the early years, the years relating to the birth of rock 'n roll in England. Many names are mentioned that anyone with a love of music will recognize, but there is still much to enjoy in the stories of his later years.
Whether you are a fan of Rod the Mod or not, the book is entertaining and fun
August 9, 2023
4+ stars..
This book was most readable.
This book was most readable.
June 15, 2024
Какъв идиот трябва да си, за да предложиш брак на бивша любима като провесиш банер с този надпис от самолет и в същия ден да се влюбиш безпаметно в друга жена и да се чудиш как да предизвикаш ураган, за да го отмениш? А чист късмет е, че дамата, за която е предназначено признанието, въобще не разбира за него.
Късметът съпътства Родерик Дейвид Стюарт в целия му луд и объркан живот. Бъдещият легендарен певец се ражда на 10 януари 1945 г. в къща в Северен Лондон, чиито стъкла са счупени от бомбардировки. Животът му тече между тренировките по футбол , свиренето на китара и посещението на фестивали –„цял уикенд с музика, пиене навън из земите на величествения замък, в средата на Ню Форест, в Хемпшир”. Не успява да се реализира като футболист, но в двора му десетилетия по-късно тренира елитният клуб „Селтик”.
За сметка на спорта пък свири в две от най-известните британски банди - „Jeff Beck Group”и „Faces”.
Автобиографичната книга „Род. Автобиография” е толкова шантава, че трудно може да се приеме за разказ за действително случили се събития и поради това е обявена за рок- биография на десетилетието.
В нея Род Стюарт споделя всякакви нелепи случки от живота си като пристрастяването към купуването на скъпи произведения на изкуството или легендарните запои с приятели като Елтън Джон и закачките между тях. Естествено описва и процеса по създаването на култовите си парчета.
Много от преживяванията му се въртят около въпроса: "Мислиш ли, че съм секси?", който задава в едноименния си хит. От непрекъснатите му похождения и връзки с русокоси дългокраки красавици се сдобива с 8 деца от 5 жени, а само с три встъпва в официален брак.
Звездната слава му носи освен редица награди и признания и многибройни двойници.
„Кабаретната певица сподели с Арнолд, че през последните пет месеца е имала серия от тайни и страстни изживявания с неговия клиент в нюйоркския й апартамент, за които съм летял редовно до там.
Арнолд попита:
-А на кого прилича?
- На Род Стюарт, естествено – каза певицата, леко раздразнена….
- Но той ми пее. Изнася ми серенади в леглото.
-Какво точно пее?- попита Арнолд.
-Тананика ми основната мелодия на филма „Ромео и Жулиета”.
И само чрез този единствен детайл всичко стана ясно. Когато става въпрос за тананикане по време на интимни моменти в будоара, аз много повече си падам по „Пета симфония на Бетовен”.
Следващият път да знае.”
Късметът съпътства Родерик Дейвид Стюарт в целия му луд и объркан живот. Бъдещият легендарен певец се ражда на 10 януари 1945 г. в къща в Северен Лондон, чиито стъкла са счупени от бомбардировки. Животът му тече между тренировките по футбол , свиренето на китара и посещението на фестивали –„цял уикенд с музика, пиене навън из земите на величествения замък, в средата на Ню Форест, в Хемпшир”. Не успява да се реализира като футболист, но в двора му десетилетия по-късно тренира елитният клуб „Селтик”.
За сметка на спорта пък свири в две от най-известните британски банди - „Jeff Beck Group”и „Faces”.
Автобиографичната книга „Род. Автобиография” е толкова шантава, че трудно може да се приеме за разказ за действително случили се събития и поради това е обявена за рок- биография на десетилетието.
В нея Род Стюарт споделя всякакви нелепи случки от живота си като пристрастяването към купуването на скъпи произведения на изкуството или легендарните запои с приятели като Елтън Джон и закачките между тях. Естествено описва и процеса по създаването на култовите си парчета.
Много от преживяванията му се въртят около въпроса: "Мислиш ли, че съм секси?", който задава в едноименния си хит. От непрекъснатите му похождения и връзки с русокоси дългокраки красавици се сдобива с 8 деца от 5 жени, а само с три встъпва в официален брак.
Звездната слава му носи освен редица награди и признания и многибройни двойници.
„Кабаретната певица сподели с Арнолд, че през последните пет месеца е имала серия от тайни и страстни изживявания с неговия клиент в нюйоркския й апартамент, за които съм летял редовно до там.
Арнолд попита:
-А на кого прилича?
- На Род Стюарт, естествено – каза певицата, леко раздразнена….
- Но той ми пее. Изнася ми серенади в леглото.
-Какво точно пее?- попита Арнолд.
-Тананика ми основната мелодия на филма „Ромео и Жулиета”.
И само чрез този единствен детайл всичко стана ясно. Когато става въпрос за тананикане по време на интимни моменти в будоара, аз много повече си падам по „Пета симфония на Бетовен”.
Следващият път да знае.”
January 3, 2013
No shortage of ego here! Don't bother with this unless you are a super fan. It's not that well written, and very egotistic, (in my opinion). One chapter dedicated to his hair, and another to his cars. I had to skip over the last half, I couldn't take it anymore. I read it mainly to find out about his early years. How he got started, and his time with the Jeff Beck Group. I can't recommend reading this boook.
February 8, 2015
Wow Rod still looks amazing for his age. I loved this very honest auto biography. The man definitely loves women. I walked past him at the Westcliff hotel and as always regretted not speaking to him. He sure grew up in a very poor household and it looks like he has never forgotten his family and his roots. Very interesting and easy read.
October 31, 2012
What can I say. My hero writes a tell-all book. I loved it! Learned things about Rod Stewart I never knew despite reading every biography out there! If you're a Rod Stewart fan, read this book!
September 25, 2019
Este es un libro al que le tenía ganas desde hace MUCHO tiempo, en Uruguay no se conseguía, en el resto del mundo no se consigue en Español, y sólo se conseguía en Inglés en USA. Gracias a mi novia que me lo regalo para mi cumpleaños pude acceder a él y después de unos meses tuve el placer de leerlo.
Es la autobiografía del gigante Rod Stewart, va desde los años 40 hasta el 2012 que fue cuando el libro se editó. Pará leerlo en inglés se hace un poco complicado, ya que Rod escribe como habla, con muchas palabras escocesas y con una jerga muy específica a la clase obrera británica por lo que siempre tuve que tener un diccionario a mano
Más alla de esa dificultad me pareció un libro excelente, que me ayudó a descubrir otras aristas de este artista que tanto me gusta.
Las historias de su nacimiento (el cuenta que mientras el nacía Hitler intentaba matarlo ya que nació en el medio de un bombardeo), su niñez junto a su gran y querida familia, su adolescencia tratando de descubrir que quería, su juventud junto a un grupo de inadaptados que terminaría dando forma al rock inglés de los años 60 y 70.
Pero también menciona las cosas malas, entre ellas destacan las drogas, el alcohol y su relación con las mujeres. Es impresionante lo mal que manejo sus relaciones, sabía que no era material para casarse o para mantener relaciones estables pero lo seguía intentando, lastimando a muchas personas en el proceso. Su estilo de vida, su fama, su forma de ser y su dinero se prestaba para otro tipo de relaciones, más fugaces.
Rod es como Phil Collins, durante décadas estuvo rodeado de famosos, músicos, productores, etc. Eso hace que su vida sea un espectáculo donde entra y sale mucha gente interesante, y su historia termina siendo un poco la historia de la música.
Otra cosa que me sorprendió mucho fue saber que tuvo una hija a los 17 años y que la dieron en adopción. Se re encontraron por los años 80s,de una forma bastante incomoda y abrupta.
Si sos fan de Rod es el libro para vos, no va a cambiar tu opinión sobre el, lo vas a seguir queriendo pero sin ningún tipo de dudas lo va a bajar a tierra, vas a ver sus errores y sus virtudes.
Es un libro muy entretenido y dinámico, nunca aburre y sobre todo es divertido. Entre los capítulos que son narrados cronologicamente Rod mete algunos anexos sobre sus grandes pasiones (Fútbol, autos, etc) y esto son sumamente graciosos, sabe reírse de sus errores y virtudes. Es como ir a un concierto de el, lo vas a escuchar cantar pero también para escucharlo hablar y bromear.
Nota a parte los encabezados de los capítulos, en dos renglones hace un resumen de lo que vamos a leer en ese capítulo pero en forma graciosa, no tienen desperdicio.
Sin dudas es un 10 de 10 este libro, me dio pena terminarlo, espero que Rod viva muchos años más y tenga que sacar una re edición actualizada, es más ya podría hacerlo, ya pasaron casi 8 años de su lanzamiento.
Es la autobiografía del gigante Rod Stewart, va desde los años 40 hasta el 2012 que fue cuando el libro se editó. Pará leerlo en inglés se hace un poco complicado, ya que Rod escribe como habla, con muchas palabras escocesas y con una jerga muy específica a la clase obrera británica por lo que siempre tuve que tener un diccionario a mano
Más alla de esa dificultad me pareció un libro excelente, que me ayudó a descubrir otras aristas de este artista que tanto me gusta.
Las historias de su nacimiento (el cuenta que mientras el nacía Hitler intentaba matarlo ya que nació en el medio de un bombardeo), su niñez junto a su gran y querida familia, su adolescencia tratando de descubrir que quería, su juventud junto a un grupo de inadaptados que terminaría dando forma al rock inglés de los años 60 y 70.
Pero también menciona las cosas malas, entre ellas destacan las drogas, el alcohol y su relación con las mujeres. Es impresionante lo mal que manejo sus relaciones, sabía que no era material para casarse o para mantener relaciones estables pero lo seguía intentando, lastimando a muchas personas en el proceso. Su estilo de vida, su fama, su forma de ser y su dinero se prestaba para otro tipo de relaciones, más fugaces.
Rod es como Phil Collins, durante décadas estuvo rodeado de famosos, músicos, productores, etc. Eso hace que su vida sea un espectáculo donde entra y sale mucha gente interesante, y su historia termina siendo un poco la historia de la música.
Otra cosa que me sorprendió mucho fue saber que tuvo una hija a los 17 años y que la dieron en adopción. Se re encontraron por los años 80s,de una forma bastante incomoda y abrupta.
Si sos fan de Rod es el libro para vos, no va a cambiar tu opinión sobre el, lo vas a seguir queriendo pero sin ningún tipo de dudas lo va a bajar a tierra, vas a ver sus errores y sus virtudes.
Es un libro muy entretenido y dinámico, nunca aburre y sobre todo es divertido. Entre los capítulos que son narrados cronologicamente Rod mete algunos anexos sobre sus grandes pasiones (Fútbol, autos, etc) y esto son sumamente graciosos, sabe reírse de sus errores y virtudes. Es como ir a un concierto de el, lo vas a escuchar cantar pero también para escucharlo hablar y bromear.
Nota a parte los encabezados de los capítulos, en dos renglones hace un resumen de lo que vamos a leer en ese capítulo pero en forma graciosa, no tienen desperdicio.
Sin dudas es un 10 de 10 este libro, me dio pena terminarlo, espero que Rod viva muchos años más y tenga que sacar una re edición actualizada, es más ya podría hacerlo, ya pasaron casi 8 años de su lanzamiento.
June 25, 2021
Sabe aquela leitura que, quando você termina, o livro fica mais pesado? Bom, esse livro foi um desses para mim... quando fechei ele, parecia ter uma tonelada. Terminei emocionado e com um sorriso no rosto. Eu amo autobiografias, a da Rita Lee foi uma maravilha, e essa foi tão boa quanto, também por se tratar de um dos meus cantores favoritos (é... é meu favorito).
Simples, bem escrito, engraçado para caramba (sério, acho que nunca li um livro tão engraçado) e... emocionante. Por esse livro, o Rod me passou lições que vou levar para toda minha vida, e outras que daqui uns 30 anos vou voltar para ler de novo. Certeza que esse vai ser um livro que vou reler muitas vezes durante minha vida.
Não me pergunte quantas marcações fiz nesse livro, pois vai ser necessário ficar um dia inteiro contando.
Vi a vida do Rod acontecer na minha frente, décadas em poucos dias, e não poderia ter sido melhor.
Simples, bem escrito, engraçado para caramba (sério, acho que nunca li um livro tão engraçado) e... emocionante. Por esse livro, o Rod me passou lições que vou levar para toda minha vida, e outras que daqui uns 30 anos vou voltar para ler de novo. Certeza que esse vai ser um livro que vou reler muitas vezes durante minha vida.
Não me pergunte quantas marcações fiz nesse livro, pois vai ser necessário ficar um dia inteiro contando.
Vi a vida do Rod acontecer na minha frente, décadas em poucos dias, e não poderia ter sido melhor.
December 22, 2023
Rod Stewart is a favorite of mine, so I greatly enjoyed learning more about him.
June 23, 2020
I originally listened to this book in 2013, when I blogged. Ever since then, I will ALWAYS recommend the audio to anyone and everyone because it was just SO DAMNED GOOD. (Trust me, I am not necessarily a fan. I have always generally thought of him as a wanker.) But when a friend, who lives in Minneapolis, was feeling down about her city and life in general, I told her to listen to this bit of sunshine. And what the hell, maybe I should too. And in rereading my review from 2013, I couldn't really say it better, so here it is:
Synopsis: Despite what one thinks of Rod Stewart...that he is a womanizer, that he is a great singer or a sellout...you cannot deny that he is iconic. Everything about him is memorable - his hair, his voice, his women. This story of his life, told in his own words, captures it all with his self-deprecating but unapologetic cocksure attitude.
While he admits to not being a complete natural with the guitar or his voice, he was determined to make a go at it. He certainly had a sense of fashion and developed his famous "bouf" early on, and made up for his lack of talent with his moxie and charisma. He recounts his days with The Jeff Beck Group and The Faces, and then splitting off with his solo career and striking gold with "Maggie May" (which he almost threw away because he didn't think it was any good). Some of the work he was proud of, and some (like "Do You Think I'm Sexy") were what he liked to call "a pink toilet seat hung around your neck for the rest of your life".
But his romps off-stage are as equally bawdy and entertaining. His friendships with Elton John and Ronnie Wood (who went on to play with The Stones), leaving his trademark scribblings of an upside-down penis on anything and everything he touched, the drugs, the addiction to fast cars, supermodels and European football...the lifestyle of an out-of-control rock-and-roller. Did he shake his bum too much on stage? No! That was part of his job description, as he saw it.
He debunks a few famous rumors, such as the fact that he played professional football, was once a gravedigger, and that he had to have his stomach pumped after servicing a group of drunk sailors (that was the work of an angry ex-publicist).
He shows his soft side as well. His attachment to his parents and his concern for their opinion of his actions. His collection of train sets. His brush with thyroid cancer. His love for his kids. He looks back on his antics with the world-weary eyes of a man who has finally grown up and shakes his head at all the foolishness. He makes no bones about it, he states "this clearly was the behavior of an asshole". But now? Having settled down with Penny Lancaster for the last 6 years, he has "put his last banana in the fruit bowl".
My thoughts: I cannot remember the last time I laughed so hard while reading or listening to a book. I'm talking out loud, weaving all over the road laughing. Rod is SO British, so dry and proper but so matter-of-fact about his crazy life, it just tickled me from the first disc to the last.
This is not at all what I expected. To be honest, while Rod sang the music of my youth, I didn't have much respect for the guy. Over the last half of his career particularly, I had noticed that all he really did was perform other people's songs. That he was some old has-been dating supermodels young enough to be his daughter. That he was cocky and full of himself. But I came away almost a little in love with him. He is smart, has a talented way with words, and very honest good-humored about his missteps.
The stories were insane but stuff that you cannot make up. The fact that the girls in the band The Go-Go's could "snort the lacquer off a table"? But they were so cute! Or when Elton John got married (because he thought it was the right thing to do) and Rod asked him how he was going to handle activities in the bedroom, and Sir Elton answers "I don't know, I guess I'll just tie a couple of lolly sticks around it". Ha! I could go on and on. Rod was a font of one-liners.
The icing on the cake in this whole scenario, however was the narrator...
A few words about the audio production: Simon Vance. Good Lord, he is SUCH a good narrator under any circumstances. But Simon as Rod? It sounded like Simon had lived this life. He delivers a smooth, flawless dialog, as if it were his own words, with that dry, British comedic timing. I'm not sure if I would have ever considered listening to this audio had it not been for Simon. Altogether, the package was a home run.
Synopsis: Despite what one thinks of Rod Stewart...that he is a womanizer, that he is a great singer or a sellout...you cannot deny that he is iconic. Everything about him is memorable - his hair, his voice, his women. This story of his life, told in his own words, captures it all with his self-deprecating but unapologetic cocksure attitude.
While he admits to not being a complete natural with the guitar or his voice, he was determined to make a go at it. He certainly had a sense of fashion and developed his famous "bouf" early on, and made up for his lack of talent with his moxie and charisma. He recounts his days with The Jeff Beck Group and The Faces, and then splitting off with his solo career and striking gold with "Maggie May" (which he almost threw away because he didn't think it was any good). Some of the work he was proud of, and some (like "Do You Think I'm Sexy") were what he liked to call "a pink toilet seat hung around your neck for the rest of your life".
But his romps off-stage are as equally bawdy and entertaining. His friendships with Elton John and Ronnie Wood (who went on to play with The Stones), leaving his trademark scribblings of an upside-down penis on anything and everything he touched, the drugs, the addiction to fast cars, supermodels and European football...the lifestyle of an out-of-control rock-and-roller. Did he shake his bum too much on stage? No! That was part of his job description, as he saw it.
He debunks a few famous rumors, such as the fact that he played professional football, was once a gravedigger, and that he had to have his stomach pumped after servicing a group of drunk sailors (that was the work of an angry ex-publicist).
He shows his soft side as well. His attachment to his parents and his concern for their opinion of his actions. His collection of train sets. His brush with thyroid cancer. His love for his kids. He looks back on his antics with the world-weary eyes of a man who has finally grown up and shakes his head at all the foolishness. He makes no bones about it, he states "this clearly was the behavior of an asshole". But now? Having settled down with Penny Lancaster for the last 6 years, he has "put his last banana in the fruit bowl".
My thoughts: I cannot remember the last time I laughed so hard while reading or listening to a book. I'm talking out loud, weaving all over the road laughing. Rod is SO British, so dry and proper but so matter-of-fact about his crazy life, it just tickled me from the first disc to the last.
This is not at all what I expected. To be honest, while Rod sang the music of my youth, I didn't have much respect for the guy. Over the last half of his career particularly, I had noticed that all he really did was perform other people's songs. That he was some old has-been dating supermodels young enough to be his daughter. That he was cocky and full of himself. But I came away almost a little in love with him. He is smart, has a talented way with words, and very honest good-humored about his missteps.
The stories were insane but stuff that you cannot make up. The fact that the girls in the band The Go-Go's could "snort the lacquer off a table"? But they were so cute! Or when Elton John got married (because he thought it was the right thing to do) and Rod asked him how he was going to handle activities in the bedroom, and Sir Elton answers "I don't know, I guess I'll just tie a couple of lolly sticks around it". Ha! I could go on and on. Rod was a font of one-liners.
The icing on the cake in this whole scenario, however was the narrator...
A few words about the audio production: Simon Vance. Good Lord, he is SUCH a good narrator under any circumstances. But Simon as Rod? It sounded like Simon had lived this life. He delivers a smooth, flawless dialog, as if it were his own words, with that dry, British comedic timing. I'm not sure if I would have ever considered listening to this audio had it not been for Simon. Altogether, the package was a home run.
January 25, 2013
I learned many things about Rod. He *really* likes gorgeous blondes. A lot.
He has a wonderful turn of phrase. To my joy he's a fabulous raconteur and a great storyteller too! The story is written in Rod's very own conversationalist voice, and this makes it all the better.
I love an old rocker. I loved Ronnie Woods and Keith Richards autobiographies, because I love the Stones and I love those guys. Rod, I didn't know so much about. I'm not a super Rod fan, but I really enjoyed this book. Ergo, scientifically, I can say, I do love an old rocker.
Ahem.
That said, this book comes recommended. It's way more interesting than many autobiographies mostly because Rod started singing very young and was around for exciting times with exciting people. Lots of good stuff in here.
I've included some of my favourite quotes in this review. Recommend!
On a power cut at a gig
..the power outage caused the stage manager to drop the curtain - much to the surprise of Ronnie Wood, who was standing directly underneath it at the time and was almost killed by about half a ton of falling velvet (because, let me tell you, in those days a curtain was a curtain.) It was while we were backstage, getting the power restored, that I noticed I had spent the entire opening number with my flies undone.
On set lists
A set list? Set lists were for wimps. Wimps and professionals. Better to just get out there and communicate the set by shouting the old Faces' battle cry: "What number are we doing?"
On knobs
I was particularly fond of a drawn knob in those days, and would inscribe one upon almost anything, to order. As an artist, the early to mid 1970s were very much my "knob period". And you could always tell my work, because my knobs were always "after the occasion" - sloping downward with drips.
On tabloid scandal
..admitted that some of the group had taken a ride on the luggage conveyor belt, but...'Rod Stewart was too drunk to get on and just lay in a corner under some luggage'. So at least one of us maintained some decorum.
On fashion
From September 1983 I was under new management and ready to roll up my sleeves. Quite literally: the rolled-up, or at any rate pushed-back, jacket sleeve was a big look at this time.
An absolute delight! Enjoy!
He has a wonderful turn of phrase. To my joy he's a fabulous raconteur and a great storyteller too! The story is written in Rod's very own conversationalist voice, and this makes it all the better.
I love an old rocker. I loved Ronnie Woods and Keith Richards autobiographies, because I love the Stones and I love those guys. Rod, I didn't know so much about. I'm not a super Rod fan, but I really enjoyed this book. Ergo, scientifically, I can say, I do love an old rocker.
Ahem.
That said, this book comes recommended. It's way more interesting than many autobiographies mostly because Rod started singing very young and was around for exciting times with exciting people. Lots of good stuff in here.
I've included some of my favourite quotes in this review. Recommend!
On a power cut at a gig
..the power outage caused the stage manager to drop the curtain - much to the surprise of Ronnie Wood, who was standing directly underneath it at the time and was almost killed by about half a ton of falling velvet (because, let me tell you, in those days a curtain was a curtain.) It was while we were backstage, getting the power restored, that I noticed I had spent the entire opening number with my flies undone.
On set lists
A set list? Set lists were for wimps. Wimps and professionals. Better to just get out there and communicate the set by shouting the old Faces' battle cry: "What number are we doing?"
On knobs
I was particularly fond of a drawn knob in those days, and would inscribe one upon almost anything, to order. As an artist, the early to mid 1970s were very much my "knob period". And you could always tell my work, because my knobs were always "after the occasion" - sloping downward with drips.
On tabloid scandal
..admitted that some of the group had taken a ride on the luggage conveyor belt, but...'Rod Stewart was too drunk to get on and just lay in a corner under some luggage'. So at least one of us maintained some decorum.
On fashion
From September 1983 I was under new management and ready to roll up my sleeves. Quite literally: the rolled-up, or at any rate pushed-back, jacket sleeve was a big look at this time.
An absolute delight! Enjoy!
January 22, 2018
I've always been a Rod Stewart fan for his music and after reading this book, I still am maybe even more so. There are very few incidents that he describes about his life that are surprising other than the fact that he pulls no punches in revealing his rock and roll lifestyle. Credit is given to him for not apologizing for his rock and roll antics and at the same time not claiming that anyone should follow his footsteps. There are the expected numerous descriptions of incidents involving drinking, carousing, drugging, womanizing, late night practical jokes, etc. My interest in the book was the music. I hoped he would shed some light on how he developed songs, created performances and his take on how important the music was in his life relative to the other things that kept him interested in his life. There was enough information about those topics that made the book worthwhile reading for me. Some of my favorite (and to me relatable) quotes from the book: [1] "My son Sean, who was eight at the time, had come into the room and said (hearing Tom Waits who was singing "Downtown Train" on Stewart's stereo) "Why is that guy singing so bad?" I love Tom Waits's voice, but it's not for everyone." [2]"I worry about the end of my career far more than I worry about aging.......and when that ends, it will be a huge lump out of my life". [3] "It's impossible for me to recount in full the immense joy I have had from my children...and the pleasure I have had in watching them grow from little toddlers to strong young adults.....no record sales compare to that, nor ever will." [4] "I don't think there had been a single occasion when the thought of getting up and singing in front of an audience hasn't filled me with pure, unadulterated enthusiasm......before a show, I have never needed to take anything to get me up. The prospect of getting out in front of an audience will do that on its own." [5] "Texan, as it happens, like Alana. I seem to have developed a thing for Texans." Those comments sprinkled throughout the book revealed a person with a passion despite all of the other distractions in his life. And a person with a passion for music is well worth my time.
February 4, 2014
I cant say I have ever been a very big fan of Rod Stewart although there has been a number of songs over the years that I have really liked but also a few I have hated (like the cringe-worthy Tonight's The Night, lol). Nor have I ever understood the supposed sex appeal factor of him - he doesn't do it for me at all! However, I have to say that in interviews I have seen with him over the past few years he always comes across as quite a nice bloke. After seeing him talking about his autobiography on The Graham Norton Show a year or so ago, I thought it would be a good read and it was. He has written with a warmth and a flow and also a lot of honesty about what a total jerk he was when it came to relationships with his bevy of long legged blondes/models/actresses, all which pretty much overlapped with each other. Even after organising an aerial proposal to one, that didn't stop him on the same day running after yet another girl and thanking his lucky stars that the possible bride to be didn't see the proposal after all!!!! His life journey through football, drugs, models, having kids, model trains and of course music was an entertaining read and it's hard to dislike the guy despite his MANY faults. And as he says himself throughout the book, he has been one hell of a lucky guy in his life.
I know I seem to whinge about this a lot but I so wish that Goodreads would get a half star rating system going!!! I would actually give this book three and a half stars. Four is a tad too much so I have to end up with an inaccurate 3.
I know I seem to whinge about this a lot but I so wish that Goodreads would get a half star rating system going!!! I would actually give this book three and a half stars. Four is a tad too much so I have to end up with an inaccurate 3.
December 2, 2014
Rod "the Mod" Stewart can certainly tell a story. His autobiography is pretty much what you'd expect, but also a bit more. It seems that Rod wants to make a point to show us his soft, nice guy side as well as the philandering, hard-drinking, cocaine-sniffing prankster side. Instead of the usual rock star bio where the outlandish behavior is highlighted until the last "redemption" chapter, Rod gives us stories throughout the timeline to accentuate his love of family and normal hobbies like football (soccer to us yanks) and model trains. In all, we get a pretty complete portrait of his life as he sees it, or wants us to see it. Missing are comments and stories from those around him who could really flesh out the whole person, warts and all. I longed for an interjection by by some spurned lover or fired employee to say what they think, but I suppose they will have to write their own books.
July 28, 2015
I decided to read Rod Stewart's autobiography after seeing him on a television talk show and the book was everything I expected, girls, drink, music, football and more girls. Lots of bawdy tales from this 70 year old pop star who has never really grown up. He still loves his football and women but also model railways which was a surprise to me. It doesn't really go with the rest of his image.
I enjoyed the book which was a good easy read full of antics and stories that mildly entertain. Nothing too deep.
I enjoyed the book which was a good easy read full of antics and stories that mildly entertain. Nothing too deep.
April 2, 2016
It started out with such promise! The first 1/3 or so very funny, even the chapter about his hair, and loved how he pokes fun at himself.
Really good insight into his time with the Faces and his solo efforts, and all the rockin and rollin.
But the relationships/womanizing,marriages all got rather tiresome after a while. Faithful was just not a part of Rod's vocabulary, to put it lightly.
Pictures also not quite as good as hoped.
Overall, a good romp, good 70's rock scene descriptions and good hair styling tips!
Really good insight into his time with the Faces and his solo efforts, and all the rockin and rollin.
But the relationships/womanizing,marriages all got rather tiresome after a while. Faithful was just not a part of Rod's vocabulary, to put it lightly.
Pictures also not quite as good as hoped.
Overall, a good romp, good 70's rock scene descriptions and good hair styling tips!
March 17, 2013
This is the part of the story where our hero finds out he's not a very likable person at all. Rob has revealed to the world that he's a shallow man who uses women. Basically, the guy lists all the girls he's hooked up with and cheated on. I'm sorry. I love you and on the the next Blond.... Very very disappointing.
November 17, 2012
All I gotta say is I still love Rod. Fabulous book. I felt like he was sitting next to me telling me the story. Berg entertaining.
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