Beyond Rock: Rod Stewart’s Surprising Forays into Different Genres

Rod Stewart—rock legend, raspy-voiced crooner, and one of music’s most enduring icons—has left an undeniable mark on the industry for over five decades. Most fans immediately think of his classic rock anthems like "Maggie May" and "Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?" when his name comes up. But what many might not realize is just how chameleon-like Stewart has been throughout his career. Beyond his rock roots, he’s dabbled deftly in folk, blues, disco, new wave, and even American standards. Today, we’re diving deep into the surprising and versatile musical journey of Rod Stewart—a true artist who’s never been afraid to reinvent himself.

From Folk Beginnings to the Blues Groove

Long before Rod Stewart became the rock heavyweight we'd come to know, he was finding his footing in the folk scene of the early 1960s. Emerging from the Greenwich Village-inspired British folk revival, Stewart’s early performances showcased an earnestness and melodic sensitivity that hinted at his future genre-bending prowess.

But it wasn’t long before Stewart leaned into the blues, a genre that perfectly complemented his distinctively raw, gravelly vocal style. By the mid-1960s, Stewart was front and center in the British blues boom, collaborating with bands like the Jeff Beck Group. His ability to inject emotion into every note allowed him to fully embrace the genre’s soul and grit, setting the stage for his later success.

Rock Royalty: The 1970s and Phenomenal Success

Of course, Stewart’s name is synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll. The 1970s was his breakout decade, boasting chart-topping hits and albums that defined classic rock for generations. With critically acclaimed records like Every Picture Tells a Story and singles like "You Wear It Well," Rod Stewart solidified himself as a leading voice in rock.

But in true Rod fashion, even at the height of his rock fame, he wasn’t about to be boxed in. By the late ’70s, he pivoted toward the disco craze that was sweeping the globe. His single "Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?" became a massive disco hit, baffling some traditional rock fans but expanding his audience to new party-loving crowds.

Riding the New Wave Wave in the ‘80s

The '80s posed a unique challenge for many ’70s stars, with the rapid evolution of music styles and production. Stewart cruised through this decade by embracing new wave sounds—notably evident in his 1981 album Tonight I’m Yours. The synthesized beats, slick production, and catchy hooks helped keep Stewart relevant in an era dominated by MTV and a younger generation.

This sonic adaptability kept the legend alive and thriving, proving that Rod Stewart wasn’t just a relic of the ’70s but an artist in tune with the trends of the time.

Reinvention Through American Standards

Perhaps the most unexpected twist in Rod Stewart's musical trajectory came in the early 2000s. Enter: the Great American Songbook phase. Stewart took a bold leap by recording a series of albums covering American standards—from timeless jazz and swing classics to Broadway hits.

Starting with It Had To Be You: The Great American Songbook in 2002, this phase revealed a softer, more tender side of Rod Stewart that fans had rarely heard before. The albums were commercial successes, introducing Stewart to a fresh audience while earning him respect from critics who admired his vocal sincerity and interpretation skills.

Why Rod Stewart’s Genre Spanning Is a Game-Changer

Rod Stewart’s career reflects an artist unafraid to experiment, challenge expectations, and grow. Many artists resist straying far from their original genre out of fear of alienating fans. Stewart, however, has proven time and again that versatility is a strength—not a liability.

His seamless movement through styles speaks to his deep musical roots and adaptive voice. From folk to blues to rock, disco, new wave, and standards, Stewart has consistently demonstrated a genuine passion for music in all its forms.

This willingness to explore and evolve has kept Rod relevant across multiple generations and music scenes. Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or someone craving classic jazz vocals, Rod Stewart’s catalog has something for just about everyone.

What’s Next for Rod Stewart?

As we move deeper into the 2020s, Rod Stewart continues to tour and release music, often blending elements of his varied past into fresh projects. His ongoing appeal lies in authenticity and a fearless embrace of change—a recipe that keeps his fans hooked and new listeners discovering his magic.

For Fans and New Listeners Alike

If you’re only familiar with Rod Stewart thanks to his rock hits, it’s time to dive deeper. Explore his early folk work, the blues era, the disco-dance floor fillers, and his smooth jazz standards. Each chapter reveals a multi-faceted artist who’s never stopped pushing boundaries.

Rod Stewart’s story is proof that musical courage pays off. More than just a rock star, he’s a versatile powerhouse whose surprising forays into different genres have cemented him as one of music’s most dynamic legends.

Tags: Rod Stewart, Rod Stewart genres, Rod Stewart American Standards, Rod Stewart disco, Rod Stewart new wave, Rod Stewart blues, classic rock, music versatility, music legends, genre-spanning artists

By: koalafriend