Rod Stewart may be calling it “One Last Time,” but if his performance at the Mann Center on Saturday night was any indication, the fire is far from out.
From the moment he hit the stage in a gold-sequined jacket and launched into “Infatuation,” the energy was electric. He rolled right into “Having a Party,” and just like that, the entire crowd was on its feet — swaying, singing, and soaking it in.
At 80, Rod isn’t trying to be the powerhouse vocalist he once was, and honestly, he doesn’t need to be. What he brings now is something even more valuable: presence, playfulness, and a deep love for every moment he gets to spend up there. He told stories, cracked jokes, and made it feel personal — like we were all just hanging out with an old friend who happens to have a catalog of hits that defined multiple generations.
The setlist delivered everything fans came to hear: “Maggie May,” “Forever Young,” “Some Guys Have All the Luck,” “Tonight’s the Night,” and a stunning version of “Have I Told You Lately” that turned the Mann into a sea of lighters (okay, mostly phone lights — but still).
One of the standout moments was “I’d Rather Go Blind,” where he stepped back and let the soul of the song take over. Raw, bluesy, and absolutely captivating.
Of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” — and yeah, the answer from the crowd was still a loud yes. Stewart danced, twirled, and even let the crowd take over more than once, with voices echoing through the Mann louder than the PA.
Throughout the night, he showed love to his band and made sure the crowd felt appreciated. There was a real sense of mutual respect in the air — decades of connection between artist and audience on full display.
And we did. Loud, grateful, and fully present for what might be our last dance with a rock legend. If this was truly Rod Stewart’s final Philly show, he left us with something unforgettable — a reminder of how much joy, soul, and style one man can bring to a stage.
Rod Stewart Tour
