Rod Stewart Brings Down the House at the American Music Awards with a Timeless Performance of “Forever Young”
On May 26, 2025, the Fontainebleau Las Vegas hosted the 51st American Music Awards, transforming the night into a grand celebration of musical excellence across generations. With a lineup that honored both current chart-toppers and enduring legends, the event struck a powerful balance between nostalgia and modern-day artistry.
Rod Stewart, now 80 years old, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his decades of influence on music and culture. The moment became even more touching as five of his eight children—Kimberly, Sean, Ruby, Renee, and Liam—joined him on stage to present the award, creating a deeply personal and heartwarming tribute.
Visibly emotional, Stewart expressed sincere gratitude during his acceptance speech. He reflected on how his love for music started long before fame, sharing that he began singing simply because it brought him joy—not for recognition or riches. His heartfelt words drew loud applause and cheers from the audience.
Following the emotional tribute, Stewart took the stage to perform his 1988 classic, “Forever Young.” It was his first AMA performance in over two decades, and he made it count. Wearing a crisp white tuxedo jacket and pinstripe trousers, he immediately commanded the stage with his signature charisma.
The performance was enhanced by the presence of a full live band, soulful choir, and sweeping instrumental arrangements. Soft piano and soaring guitar lines complemented Stewart’s raspy voice, blending together to create an atmosphere that was both grand and deeply intimate.
As he sang, the stage bathed in golden hues that mirrored the song’s nostalgic spirit. Behind him, a massive screen played a heartfelt montage of clips from his illustrious career—flashbacks of his younger self performing the same song with the same fiery passion decades earlier.
The crowd was visibly moved, many standing and singing along as Stewart delivered each verse with emotion and poise. As the final chorus rang out, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, confirming that Stewart’s voice and presence remain as captivating as ever.
“Forever Young” served as more than just a performance—it was a statement. It reminded fans that some voices never fade, and some songs grow deeper with time. Stewart didn’t just revisit a hit; he re-lived a part of his legacy and invited the world to feel it with him.
The 2025 American Music Awards, hosted by Jennifer Lopez, emphasized honoring musical legends alongside modern artists. Stewart shared the spotlight with other iconic performers like Janet Jackson and Gloria Estefan, creating a sense of shared legacy and cross-generational respect.
While newer artists thrilled the crowd with trending hits and high-energy sets, the night’s true emotional core came from veterans like Stewart. These performances added depth to the evening, reminding viewers of the roots of the music industry and the artists who helped build it.
“Forever Young,” co-written by Stewart, Jim Cregan, and Kevin Savigar, has long been one of his most cherished songs. Its universal message of enduring youth and hope made it the perfect anthem for the night—and for Stewart himself, who personified both.
As he performed, Stewart radiated the spirit of the song—still energetic, still joyful, and still singing with the same love that sparked his career over 60 years ago. For both longtime fans and new audiences, it was a moment that transcended age and time.
His AMA performance also acted as a curtain-raiser for his upcoming “One Last Time” world tour. The tour will include several stops across North America, including a major return to Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, promising fans one last grand celebration of his greatest hits.
As the AMAs drew to a close, Stewart’s performance stood out not just as a highlight of the night, but as a defining reminder of music’s ability to connect, uplift, and endure. At 80, he proved that legends don’t just fade away—they evolve, inspire, and continue to shine.
Rod Stewart’s appearance was more than a career milestone—it was a moment of triumph. In an industry where trends come and go, his lasting impact and passionate delivery reminded everyone that true artistry never ages. His voice, like his legacy, remains forever young.
