In a recent interview with The Times, legendary musician Rod Stewart shared his thoughts on contemporary musicians who will leave a lasting impact on the industry. Although Stewart believes that there are still artists producing timeless songs today, he expressed doubts about Ed Sheeran's ability to withstand the test of time.
When asked if musicians are creating songs that will resonate for decades, Stewart confidently mentioned his own hit from 1971, 'Maggie May,' as an example. However, he struggled to recall the name of another talented musician and stumbled upon Sheeran's name, only to dismiss him as 'old ginger bollocks' without acknowledging any of his songs. It's worth noting that Stewart did eventually recall George Ezra's track 'Shotgun' and expressed admiration for his songwriting skills, suggesting that Ezra will have a significant musical impact for years to come.
During the interview, Stewart shared his perspective on the changing landscape of the music industry. Reflecting on his own beginnings in the 1960s, he emphasized that he and his contemporaries, such as The Rolling Stones and Elton John, entered the industry out of a genuine love for music, not for money or fame. Stewart suggested that today's aspiring artists may have different motivations, highlighting a shift in focus from passion to fame-seeking.
Stewart expressed concern that some musicians today approach their careers with a desire for quick success rather than a genuine love of music. He believes that record companies of the past were more supportive and willing to provide opportunities for aspiring artists, whereas the current industry seems more captivated by fame and financial gain.
Although Stewart's thoughts on Ed Sheeran may be seen as less than favorable, it is important to note that he holds a high regard for artists like George Ezra, who he believes possess the talent and songwriting skills to leave a lasting impact on the music scene.
As the music industry continues to evolve, the debate surrounding timeless music and the intentions of aspiring musicians will persist. While there is no definitive answer, it is clear that Rod Stewart, an experienced and respected musician, is still passionate about the art form and continues to celebrate those he believes will stand the test of time.
