While the world gears up for Lady Gaga’s electrifying return to the stage, another music legend is being honored for a lifetime of contributions that have shaped the very foundation of popular music. Sir Rod Stewart, the raspy-voiced rocker known for hits like Maggie May, Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?, and Forever Young, is set to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 American Music Awards. The ceremony, which will take place on May 26 at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas, promises to be a night filled with nostalgia, reverence, and, of course, unforgettable performances—including one from the man himself.

This recognition is long overdue for Stewart, whose career has spanned more than six decades and includes over 120 million records sold worldwide. From his early days with The Jeff Beck Group and Faces to his solo superstardom, Stewart’s influence on rock, pop, and even jazz is both vast and enduring. His distinctive voice, often imitated but never duplicated, has earned him a spot among the greatest vocalists of all time. Whether crooning love ballads or belting out arena anthems, Stewart has always had the rare ability to blend vulnerability with swagger—an emotional honesty that continues to resonate with fans across generations.

What makes this year’s AMAs particularly special is the context in which Stewart is receiving the honor. At 80 years old, he remains not only active in music but also relevant. His most recent album, Swing Fever, a tribute to the big band era, debuted at number one in the UK charts earlier this year. Critics praised it as a refreshing return to form, blending timeless melodies with Stewart’s charismatic delivery. The Lifetime Achievement Award, then, is not just a look back—it’s a celebration of an artist who never stopped evolving, never stopped performing, and never stopped connecting.

As the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs) approach, anticipation is building for the star-studded event set to take place on May 26 at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. Hosted by Jennifer Lopez, the ceremony promises a blend of musical legends and emerging talents, with performances by Janet Jackson, Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton, and newcomers like Benson Boone, Lainey Wilson, and Reneé Rapp. The night will also feature a tribute to Gloria Estefan, celebrating her enduring influence on Latin music and pop culture.

Rod Stewart’s appearance at the AMAs is particularly poignant, as it marks his first performance at the event since 2004. His return underscores the enduring appeal of his music and his significant impact on the industry. Fans can look forward to a memorable rendition of one of his classic hits, delivered with the same passion and energy that have defined his illustrious career.

In addition to his AMAs performance, Stewart is embarking on his farewell “One Last Time Tour,” which will cover North America from February to August 2025. The tour includes performances at Atlantic City’s Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and Saratoga Springs’ Saratoga Performing Arts Center, with special guest Cheap Trick joining him on most shows. Stewart’s setlist is expected to feature iconic hits like “Maggie May,” “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy,” and “Young Turks,” offering fans a final opportunity to experience his live performances.