Rod Stewart Energizes Hamptons Benefit, Shows Strong Recovery After Health Issues

Rod Stewart took the stage at a lavish Hamptons estate on Wednesday night for a benefit supporting Steven Van Zandt’s Teach Rock charity, delivering a robust set that lasted about ninety minutes. He performed fan favorites including “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” “Have I Told You Lately,” and “Forever Young,” while moving energetically across the stage, prompting comments that he looked healthier than many men half his age.

This appearance follows a series of June cancellations caused by an acute upper-respiratory infection, laryngitis, and vocal strain exacerbated by high altitude, which had forced him to postpone shows in San Diego, Colorado, Utah, and Las Vegas. Stewart lauded Teach Rock’s effort to bring music education back to classrooms and joined Van Zandt for renditions of “We’re Having a Party” and “Stay With Me.” The fundraiser generated $1.7 million, highlighted by an auction of a dinner with Van Zandt and three Sopranos cast members that fetched $160,000.

Guests also included personalities such as Ramona Singer, Georgina Chapman, Chris and Christina Cuomo, Stefano Tonchi, and Fern Mallis. Stewart is slated to resume touring with a performance at Jones Beach on July 31.