Rod Stewart on the State of Rock: His Take on Modern Music and Industry Trends

By koalafriend

The legendary Rod Stewart, a name synonymous with rock ’n’ roll for over five decades, recently opened up about the state of rock music and the shifting landscape of the music industry. Known for his raspy voice and iconic hits like “Maggie May” and “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, Stewart has witnessed firsthand how the industry has evolved — and he’s not shy about sharing his thoughts on what’s happening today.

In a candid interview, Rod Stewart dove into what he sees as the biggest changes in music and how rock, in particular, is holding up in an era dominated by streaming, TikTok trends, and a new generation of artists. For longtime fans and music lovers alike, his perspective offers a fresh yet grounded look at modern music.

Rock’s Place in Today’s Music Scene: Is It Holding On?

Rod Stewart didn’t beat around the bush when discussing rock’s place in today’s music world. “Rock music has always been about rebellion, passion, and raw energy,” he said. “But these days, it feels like the focus is more on what's trending rather than the soul of the music.”

Rod acknowledges that rock isn’t the chart-topper it once was during the ’70s and ’80s heyday. “Pop, hip-hop, and even electronic genres are dominating the mainstream playlists,” he noted, “and that’s reflected in the charts and streaming numbers.”

But don’t count rock out just yet. Stewart believes that rock isn’t dead — it’s just evolving. “Rock has this incredible ability to adapt, and you’re seeing a lot of new bands putting their own spin on it. It’s quieter, maybe, but it’s very much alive.”

Streaming and Social Media: Game-Changers for Artists

One of the biggest disruptions Rod Stewart highlighted is the massive impact streaming services and social media platforms have had on the music industry. “When I started, the journey was all about albums and radio play,” he said. “Now, it’s all about streams, views, followers, and viral moments.”

He admits that while this digital era offers incredible opportunities for new artists, it also creates challenges. “The industry pressure to go viral or be TikTok-famous changes how music is made and marketed. It’s less about albums telling a story and more about bite-sized content that hooks listeners instantly.”

Stewart isn’t dismissing this shift; rather, he’s offering a veteran’s insight. “Artists today have to be savvy with their online presence — it’s part of their brand now. But true talent and good songwriting? That always matters.”

The Pressure to Stay Relevant

At 78 years young, Rod Stewart has mastered the art of staying relevant in an ever-changing industry. With a career spanning more than 50 years, he’s seen fads come and go — and the constant need to evolve is something he knows well.

“I think the key is to keep creating music that feels honest to who you are,” Stewart explained. “If you chase trends just to fit in, it never works. I try to stay true to my roots but also incorporate fresh sounds when it feels right.”

This approach has helped him connect with both longtime fans and younger listeners discovering him through playlists and collaborations. “Music is universal; it crosses generations if it’s done with heart.”

Where Is Rock Headed Next?

When asked about the future of rock, Stewart was optimistic. “Rock has always bounced back stronger because it’s based on emotion and storytelling,” he said. “Even with all the changes, there’s something timeless about a great guitar riff and a memorable chorus.”

He also praised the new wave of rock artists who are blending genres, from indie rock to alternative and even hip-hop infusions. “This mix of styles keeps rock fresh and exciting. It’s not just about sticking to one formula anymore — that’s what keeps it alive and kicking.”

Final Thoughts: A Legendary Voice on Modern Music

Rod Stewart’s take on the modern music industry and rock’s status is both insightful and hopeful. His message for artists and fans is clear: embrace change, but don’t lose sight of what made rock music special in the first place — authenticity, passion, and storytelling.

For everyone nostalgic for classic rock or curious about current trends, Rod Stewart’s perspective offers a bridge between the past and present. Whether you’re streaming the latest hits or dusting off a vinyl record, his words remind us all why rock will always have a place in the heart of music lovers.

Rod Stewart on the State of Rock: His Take on Modern Music and Industry Trends is a must-read for fans who want to hear from a true music icon about how the landscape is evolving and where rock stands in today’s fast-moving industry.

Stay tuned for more exclusive insights and updates on your favorite artists here.

For now, it’s clear: Rod Stewart believes rock’s story is far from over — it’s just entering a new chapter.