Rod Stewart ‘proud of Scottish heritage’ as he discusses career change

Sir Rod Stewart says he is proud of his Scottish heritage as he discussed his career change in a new interview.

The Hoops-daft singer, 78, recently announced his ‘retirement’ from rock as he plans to release a new album and focus on jazz and swing music following his world tour. Sir Rod has recently embarked on his UK leg of the tour and told People Magazine: “It’s always a thrill to play Great Britain.”

As well as branching out into a different genre of music, the Celtic superfan has launched a new career venture unveiling his Scotch whisky Wolfies.

“It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while,” he told the publication. “I have a lot of Scottish blood in me having a Scottish father, and I’m proud of my Scottish heritage.

“Whisky is the number one drink from Scotland. I wouldn’t say it was a natural move — I didn’t use to drink it, but I do now. I’ve actually fallen in love with whisky, and I like it in cocktails.”

He quipped: “So we’re keeping our fingers crossed for a big success.”

Speaking of his new music, Rod said his new album with pianist Jools Holland is done, and he plans to have it released on Valentine’s Day 2024.

“There’s only so many years I want to keep singing ‘Hot Legs’ and ‘Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?'” he says. “This really is fine music, and I’ve got the voice and the talent to pull it off, as you will hear when you hear the album.

“I can’t imagine doing great big venues with it — we’ll have to do smaller venues, which will be fun with a 19-piece orchestra. Rod is now your jazz singer.”

Rod previously denied that he would ever retire following speculation he would be stepping down following his tour. Taking to Instagram, Sir Rod penned: “I’d like to clear up any confusion that I may have caused with my dear fans and the media. I shall never retire!

“I was put on this earth to be a singer and will keep doing so for as long as the good lord lets me. I’ll be playing the hits as advertised for the UK, US, South America, and Vegas, and into 2024 but no retirement as such.”

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