Rod Stewart has celebrated his first number one album in 34 years. Hit record Time soared to the top of the charts, which is the first collection of original songs that the Maggie May hit maker has released in more than 20 years. Inspired by his literary scribblings, Rod said that he found his muse once more when he compiled his autobiography.
"I've lived a wonderful life and when I was putting the book together it inspired many of the songs," he said. "If there's anything that God gave, and some people may disagree, he gave me a tremendous vehicle in my voice. "It's just very unique, so I was just lucky to be given this voice." The new album features 11 original tracks penned by the star, as well as a cover of Tom Waits' Picture In A Frame. Rod said he chose to include the song because it reminded him of the brief time he separated from his wife of six years Penny Lancaster.
"Penny and I broke up for two weeks and the song is about that time," said the Do Ya Think I'm Sexy chart topper. "I asked her for a photo of herself in a frame so that I could see her when I went to bed and when I woke up." Reflecting on his musical legacy Rod added, "There was a point in my career where I'd given up on song writing because I didn't think I had anything to say and I was getting lazy... then I realised I had a lot to write about." The LP is also produced by the star.
Surprising guests at HELLO!'s 25th anniversary party, Rod performed his version of Happy Birthday in honour of the magazine. "The thing I love about HELLO! is that it is a class act in every respect," said Penny at the party. "It's great to be treated with dignity and respect and that's why HELLO! has been going for 25 years," added rocker Rod.