What is the best Rod Stewart album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Every Picture Tells a Story" (1971). It's the most representative of what makes Rod Stewart worth hearing.

What are the best Rod Stewart albums?

The essential Rod Stewart albums include "The First Cut Is the Deepest" (1967), "An Old Raincoat Won't Ever Let You Down" (1969), "Gasoline Alley" (1970), "Every Picture Tells a Story" (1971) and "Every Picture Tells a Story" (1971).

How many albums does Rod Stewart have?

Rod Stewart has 90 releases in their discography, including 39 albums and 3 EPs.

Photo: Helge Øverås · CC BY 2.5

Rod Stewart

Q: Who is Rod Stewart for?

If you're into new wave and R&B, Rod Stewart is worth your time. A mix of rhythmic push and melodic pull creates a textural landscape where buoyant grooves intertwine with heartfelt delivery.

A mix of rhythmic push and melodic pull creates a textural landscape where buoyant grooves intertwine with heartfelt delivery.

blues rock · new wave

United Kingdom

Read about Rod Stewart on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Every Picture Tells a Story album by Rod Stewart

Every Picture Tells a Story (1971)

Represents Rod Stewart's blend of rock and storytelling, showcasing his signature sound in a cohesive and accessible format.

The song

“Maggie May”

This track features an immediate hook and encapsulates Stewart's style, making it a introduction for new listeners.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"It's All Over Now" — from Live Coast to Coast – Overture and Beginners (1974)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"Love Is" — from Another Country (2015)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)" — from A Night on the Town (1976)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"Here to Eternity" — from Every Beat of My Heart (1986)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"True Blue" — from Never a Dull Moment (1972)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"Have You Ever Seen the Rain" — from Still the Same… Great Rock Classics of Our Time (2006)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart holds an enduring place in the musical landscape, not only for his distinctive raspy voice but also for his ability to blend rock with elements of soul and pop, influencing generations of artists and listeners alike. His presence on stage evokes a raw magnetism, inviting audiences into a world where emotion and charisma collide, embodying an era that celebrated both individualism and collective experience. Stewart's approach to music is marked by an unfiltered expression of feeling, often drawing from personal experiences and societal observations to craft songs that resonate with authenticity. His seamless transitions between genres, from blues-infused rock to new wave influences, create a fluidity that allows each track to breathe while maintaining a sense of coherence throughout his work. This adaptability has opened doors for myriad interpretations, ensuring that he remains relevant across changing musical landscapes. In his songwriting, Stewart often explores themes of love, loss, and longing, employing a storytelling style that balances sincerity with moments of playful irony. His lyrical voice captures the essence of vulnerability alongside confidence, creating a relatable yet larger-than-life persona. This duality enriches his narratives, making them feel both intimate and expansive.

39 studio albums· 90 total releases· 5 decades· United Kingdom