It was 30 years ago when I attended my first ever Rod Stewart show – on October 28th 1986 at Philipshalle in Dusseldorf. For me yesterday’s show was a very special moment. Rod returning to my hometown after 30 long years.
I started the day with a breakfast at home. Later in the morning we (Silke, Marco and me) made our way into the city. A quick stop at the band hotel where I had a little swat with Conrad Korsch about the upcoming Munich show and the question if he will wear that “Lederhose” again. Well, he really didn’t tell, tried to keep the secret…. Met Lucy and all the other band members – Katja was definitely missing – as they prepared for their transfer to the ISS Dome for soundcheck.
After that we drove down to the airport and waited for Rod’s arrival. Unfortunately a Mercedes van picked him up right at his plane so we had no chance for a pic or a signature because he didn’t pass the security terminal.
So we finally went to the venue where we met all the other fans. Gilles from Brussels, Oli from Frankfurt and many many more.
The show started right on time at 7.30 pm.
Rod opened with “Havin’ a Party”, followed by “Some guys have all the luck” and “Tonight’s the Night”. The show was pretty good, but the crowd in the back and on the stands wasn’t that enthusiastic.
“Love is”, “Angel” and “You Wear It Well” came up next. I enjoyed “Forever Young” and a wonderful version of “Downtown Train” very much even I hadn’t the best seat.
During “Stay With Me” Rod kicked out the balls. “Losing You” and “Rollin’ & Tumblin'” followed.
There was no break yesterday – Rod had to get his flight back home before 10 pm. So we were “bombed” with “Maggie May”, the acoustic session (First Cut, Talk About It, You’re in my Heart) and “Baby Jane”. Then the girls took over the stage for “Young Hearts Run Free”. Rod retuned for “Sailing” and “Sexy”. And that was it.
He left out “Hot Legs” and “Rhythm Of My Heart” of the original set list. A quick wave goodbye and off he went, jumped into his van and disappeared to the airport.
I saved a tour poster for my home office and then we left the Arena for having a few after show drinks in a nearby hotel bar.
All in all: It was a good concert, a little bit short indeed, but the boring crowd in Dusseldorf prevented this show for being a show to remember for a long time.
Anyway I had a brilliant night and enjoyed my 59th (or was it 58? Or 57? Really didn’t count exactly) Rod Stewart show in my hometown. And yes it was a very special day for me….
Dusseldorf poster photo By Martin Heidt
Show photos by Marlene Cöln