Rod Stewart accepting the aforementioned and highly regarded Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 American Music Awards. The in-person event held on May 26th in Las Vegas, NV. The larger-than-life artist was best known for his prolific creation. Fans are just as excited about his long-awaited, oft-delayed upcoming farewell tour. The award was presented to him by five of his eight children: Liam, Renee, Kimberly, Ruby, and Sean Stewart, creating a touching family moment on stage.
Stewart, known for his unique vocal style and high-energy shows, took to the stage. He wowed the audience with a spellbinding rendition of his classic 1988 hit, “Forever Young.” This was his first performance at the American Music Awards since 2004. Later onstage with Adele, Lang surprised the audience by wearing a bright white tuxedo jacket with matching pinstripe trousers, demonstrating sartorial flair that would impress old-school Vegas showmen.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Stewart said he was shocked that he’d be recognized in this way. Here he is getting a really sweet moment with his kids, who looked on beaming as their dad tore around the course.
“I am absolutely flabbergasted. I didn’t know they were here — my children,” – Rod Stewart
Stewart reflected on his journey in music, stating, “When I started singing in the early ’60s, well before all of you lot were here, the reason I got into it was because I had this burning ambition to sing. It’s all I wanted to do. I didn’t want to be rich or famous, and here I am a few years later, picking up this wonderful award.”
The 2025 American Music Awards, hosted by Jennifer Lopez, featured performances from several other artists, including Janet Jackson, Gloria Estefan, Gwen Stefani, Benson Boone, and Blake Shelton. Janet Jackson, who won the Icon Award during the ceremony, further emphasized the night’s celebration of talented musical women.
Billie Eilish had a historic night, winning all seven categories she was nominated in. This victory is a testament to her enduring impact on the music scene.
When the day concluded, Stewart had a touching moment with his family. That profoundly emotional moment brought the house down at Fontainebleau Las Vegas and had those watching live on stream in tears. His recognition honored his present and future. It cleared a path for many more adventures, musically and otherwise, as he moves toward his announced upcoming retirement tour.
