Rod Stewart closes 2025 AMAs with 'Forever Young' after surprise tribute from his children

2025 American Music Awards - Show - Source: Getty
Rod Stewart closes 2025 AMAs with 'Forever Young' after surprise tribute from his children (Image via Getty)

Rod Stewart received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs) on May 26, 2025. The moment became more special when five of his eight children surprised him on stage. Kimberly, Ruby, Renee, Sean, and Liam joined him to celebrate his long music career.

Rod Stewart has spent more than 60 years in the music industry. He has had over 50 Billboard Hot 100 songs and 16 top 10 hits. His children’s appearance was kept a secret, and he was clearly surprised. He said during his speech that he did not know they would be there.

At the end of the ceremony, Stewart performed his hit song Forever Young. It was a powerful performance filled with stage energy. This marked his first performance back at the AMAs stage since 2004.


Why was this tribute so special?

2025 American Music Awards - Show - (Image via Getty)
2025 American Music Awards - Show - (Image via Getty)

The tribute from Stewart’s children added a personal touch to the award. When he saw his children, he said he was “flabbergasted.” He joked about having eight children, saying, “I didn’t have a television.” The crowd laughed with him, and the moment felt real and honest.

Family is important to Stewart. He did not grow up with dreams of being rich or famous. He said he just wanted to sing. Seeing his children stand beside him made the honor more meaningful. They celebrated more than his career—they celebrated him as a father.

The tribute showed a different side of the music legend. It was not just about his hits and stage shows. It was about his life, values, and the people he cares about. That’s what made the moment feel complete.

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What did Rod Stewart say in his speech?

Rod Stewart’s speech was short and simple. He said he did not expect to see his children, and thanked everyone for the award. He looked back on his early music days. He named his influences—Sam Cooke, David Ruffin, and Muddy Waters.

He spoke about starting his music career with no goal of fame. He only wanted to sing. This showed that his path to success came from his love for music, not for money. He made it clear that passion, not fame, kept him going for six decades.

He also showed his sense of humor during the speech. Along with his “television” joke, he added light comments that made the crowd laugh. His words were honest, direct, and gave a glimpse into who he is behind the stage.

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How did Rod Stewart end the night?

Rod Stewart ended the night with a performance of his 1988 hit Forever Young. The show had a mix of music, dance, and visual effects. There was a tap dance part, a bagpipe group, and a marching band drum solo. He wore a white tuxedo jacket and pinstripe pants.

This was his first AMAs performance in more than 20 years. Even at 80 years old, he moved across the stage with energy. Fans cheered and sang along. The mix of old-school performance and modern show style worked well.

The song Forever Young was a fitting choice. It talks about staying true to yourself and living with purpose. It reflected Stewart’s journey. He used the stage to show that age hasn’t stopped him and that music still drives him.

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Rod Stewart’s appearance at the 2025 AMAs was not just about getting an award. It was about family, music, and staying strong throughout a long career. His children’s surprise made the moment personal. His words reminded fans why he started singing. And his final song, Forever Young, gave the audience a night to remember.

The night proved that Stewart is more than a music star. He is a father, a performer, and a person who still loves what he does. His story at the AMAs was not just about looking back. It was also about showing what keeps him going: family, passion, and music.

Edited by Deebakar