Rod Stewart’s ‘One More Time’ in Munich: A Timeless Performer Defies Age

Henrik MüllerDecember 12, 20253 Mins read15

Summarize:

Rod Stewart, the indefatigable rock icon, once again captivated the Munich Olympiahalle in December 2025, marking his second appearance in the city within 18 months. Despite nearing 81, Stewart continues to defy expectations, delivering performances that blend seasoned professionalism with his signature boyish charm. The question isn’t if he can still rock, but how he manages to do it with such unwavering enthusiasm and precision.

The ‘One More Time’ Phenomenon: A Strategic Evolution

Initially touring under the banner of ‘One Last Time’ in June 2024, Stewart (or his astute management) has subtly rebranded his ongoing series of concerts to ‘One More Time.’ This change perfectly encapsulates the enduring demand for the legendary performer, as evidenced by the packed Olympiahalle in Munich. Fans, both in Munich and worldwide, simply cannot get enough of ‘Rod the Mod.’ But what lies behind this seemingly endless appeal?

Part of Stewart’s magic lies in his evolution as an entertainer. He has seamlessly transitioned from raw rock concerts to meticulously choreographed revues. The stage, a gleaming white canvas, serves as the backdrop for each song, enhanced by sophisticated video and lighting dramaturgy. His twelve-member ensemble, comprising six women and six men, functions more as an orchestra than a traditional rock band, moving with synchronized precision in elegant, matching attire. Only fleeting glimpses of roadies in T-shirts and shorts, swapping instruments between songs, offer a nostalgic nod to the more chaotic, grungier rock concerts of yesteryear.

The All-Female Ensemble: More Than Just ‘Blondes Have More Fun’

The six female musicians, predominantly blonde and embodying the spirit of his album title, ‘Blondes Have More Fun,’ are far more than mere decorative elements. Throughout the two-hour spectacle, they prove to be exceptional instrumentalists, showcasing their talents on vocals, guitar, violin, mandolin, timpani, banjo, and harp. Their performances are not only visually polished but also sonically impeccable, with every note perfectly produced within the excellently balanced soundscape. Crucially, this all-female contingent also provides Stewart with essential breaks, allowing him time for costume changes and, undoubtedly, a moment to catch his breath. During these interludes, the band shines independently, granting these talented women their well-deserved moment in the spotlight.

Age-Defying Performance with a Touch of Reality

While Stewart still energetically dances across the stage, his age, though impressive, occasionally shows. He sometimes takes a brief seated pause on the show’s tiered steps. The power of his voice may have slightly mellowed, but the songs themselves retain their impact. Stewart wisely leans on his extensive catalog of hits, and the Munich audience enthusiastically joined in for classics like the inevitable ‘Sailing,’ the indestructible ‘Maggie May,’ and anthems such as ‘Baby Jane.’

Reinterpreting ‘Hot Legs’ for 2025

Even a track like ‘Hot Legs’ receives a fresh interpretation. While older fans might fondly recall the overtly suggestive 1978 music video, Stewart, a three-time husband and father of seven, deftly navigates the changing social landscape. In 2025, brazenly releasing an anthem about long-legged women might be met with skepticism. Yet, Stewart, with his characteristic charm, gives ‘Hot Legs’ a new meaning. Instead of women in hot pants, the video screen now displays images of a young, spindly Stewart himself on the football field, clad in comically short shorts.

To keep the experience fresh for his most devoted fans, many of whom attend every tour, Stewart thoughtfully rotates his setlist. Compared to his 2024 concert, approximately one-third of the 24 songs were new to the Munich audience. He surprised them with two Creedence Clearwater Revival classics: ‘Have You Ever Seen The Rain’ and ‘Proud Mary.’ The latter, however, was performed by his female band members, a vibrant homage to Tina Turner.

The Unyielding Spirit of a Rock Legend

Why does the 80-year-old Stewart continue to endure the rigors of touring? Financial concerns are unlikely to be the motivator. Instead, it’s clear he genuinely enjoys being on stage, even laughing at himself when he misses a note. Offstage, the touring life also offers its simple pleasures. Recently, during a stop in Leipzig, Stewart was spotted shopping in a model train store – a testament to the enduring ‘child in the old man.’

The question of whether this was truly his last Munich concert remains unanswered. Before Christmas, the tireless Rod was scheduled to perform in Vienna, Sofia, Athens, and Abu Dhabi. His schedule for February 2026 already includes approximately 30 North American shows. Retirement is clearly not on Rod’s immediate horizon. It’s entirely plausible that 2027 could see a ‘One More Time Again’ tour, or even a ‘Again, One More Time’ series, making its way back to Munich.