Rod Stewart Reveals the One Artist He Loves “To Death”—You Won’t Believe Who It Is!

Rod Stewart, the legendary rocker known for hits like “Maggie May” and “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy,” recently shared a heartfelt revelation about one of his closest friends in the music industry: Elton John. Despite the notoriously cutthroat nature of the music business, Stewart has always valued genuine friendships over fleeting partnerships. And when it comes to Elton, he doesn’t hold back, calling him a “dear, dear mate” he loves “to death.”

The bond between the two British icons didn’t form overnight. Stewart’s journey through the music industry—marked by the breakup of The Faces, disputes over money, and a few public controversies—taught him that true friendships are rare.In contrast to the polished façade of showbiz, Stewart has always prioritized loyalty, honesty, and mutual respect. That’s exactly what he found with Elton John, a fellow artist who wasn’t afraid to break the mold.

In the early days, Stewart and John both rooted their songwriting in the singer-songwriter tradition, yet their approaches couldn’t have been more different. While Stewart exuded rugged charm and a raspy vocal edge, John dazzled with flamboyant costumes, theatrical stage presence, and smooth vocals that set him apart.

Their contrasting styles never stood in the way of their friendship. In fact, it added a playful element to their relationship—rivalries included. Stewart recalls hiring a crew to tear down John’s promotional material ahead of major gigs, a cheeky move emblematic of their good-natured competition.

However, behind the banter, the two share a profound respect. Stewart revealed that when he wanted to record a duet, Elton John was the first and only person he approached personally. “He’s a dear, dear mate of mine. I love him to death. And he said yes, Rod, I’ll sing with you,” Stewart recounted.

Their collaboration highlighted the blend of their unique vocal styles: John’s smoother tones and Stewart’s signature rasp. The result felt less like a polished studio project and more like two lifelong friends sharing a song at a local pub.

For Stewart, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but his friendship with John has endured. Both have weathered the pressures of fame, made their share of mistakes, and grown wiser over the decades. Their ability to laugh at their own missteps—while maintaining mutual respect—is a testament to their character. As Stewart puts it, no musician can be a flawless role model forever, but being honest and upfront with those you care about can make all the difference.

In the end, Stewart and John’s relationship stands as a rare example of enduring camaraderie in a tough industry. They’ve gone from being chart-topping rivals to trusted confidants, proving that even in the world of rock and roll, true friendship is something to cherish.