Las Vegas on Thursday: 81 (and Not a Bit Quiet)

“81 (and Not a Bit Quiet)” is the title of one of STORYTELLER’s tribute songs, which we produced earlier this year together with a group of musician friends – and, admittedly, a little help from modern technology – in honour of Rod Stewart’s 81st birthday. The title remains as fitting as ever, perfectly describing what fans around the world continue to experience, and especially those who attended last night’s concert at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

For Sir Rod, whom Las Vegas Magazine recently described as “a gift to us all” (see Las Vegas Magazine), it was his third appearance at The Colosseum this year after being forced to cancel two shows due to a sinus infection.

The singer appeared to be almost back to full strength, with very little sign remaining of his recent illness. As a result, Stewart once again delivered a first-class performance for his audience. “This is where he feels at home, this is where he has fun,” wrote Las Vegas Magazine, and Sir Rod demonstrated exactly that once again on stage.

For the second consecutive show, he opened the evening with the Otis Redding classic Sittin’ On The Dock Of The Bay following the familiar Soul Finger intro, before putting his foot firmly on the accelerator with the 1980s favourites Infatuation and Tonight I’m Yours.

The audience responded with enthusiasm. Everywhere you looked, there were smiling faces. And those who were not busy capturing countless photos and videos on their smartphones were dancing along or singing the choruses of The First Cut Is The Deepest and You’re In My Heart – not always perfectly in tune, perhaps, but certainly with plenty of passion and conviction.

Naturally, that energy carried over to the stage, where Rod and his outstanding musicians once again formed the perfect partnership for which they are renowned. The violinists played with remarkable intensity during Forever Young, the saxophonist sent soaring notes across the arena during I’d Rather Go Blind, while the drummer attacked his snares and hi-hats as though there were no tomorrow.

Then there were the three backing singers, whose performances of the classics Jolene and Proud Mary brought thunderous applause from the crowd.

Giving his musicians their moment in the spotlight as a thank-you for years of loyalty is another art that Sir Rod has mastered completely. In many ways, it is much like football: a team is only as strong as the people within it. Rod, acting as the band’s captain, demonstrates that principle night after night. The audience appreciates it, and as a result every concert becomes a truly special experience for everyone involved.

“Seeing Rod Stewart live is absolutely incredible,” enthused Michael from Los Angeles as he left Caesars Palace after the roughly 90-minute show. “He doesn’t just bring back old memories through his music; he turns a concert into a unique entertainment experience.” With that, he proudly held aloft the signed football he had worked so hard to obtain. “I’m ready for the World Cup now,” he laughed.

Nancy, who was born in Las Vegas but now lives in St Paul, Minnesota, had travelled back to her hometown specifically to see Stewart perform. “I’ve seen him at Caesars again and again over the years – probably ten times by now,” she said. “And every single time I think, ‘Well, that’s probably it.’ Then he comes back the following year and once again creates an unforgettable experience. Rod Stewart simply refuses to grow old. It’s almost outrageous how good he still looks at 81.”  She finishes her thought with a knowing wink.

Setlist:

• Soulfinger (Band intro)

• Sittin' On The Dock Of The Bay

• Infatuation

• Tonight I'm Yours

• This Old Heart Of Mine

• The First Cut Is The Deepest

• You're In My Heart

• Tonight's The Night

• Forever Young

• Hot Legs

• Ooh La La

• Maggie May

• I'd Rather Go Blind

• Rhythm Of My Heart

• Jolene (Band only)

• People Get Ready

• If You Don't Know Me by Now

• Have I Told You Lately

• Proud Mary (Band only)

• Some Guys Have All The Luck#

• Da Ya Think I'mSexy

• Love Train