Photos and Review by Max Stewart
Part of the fun of getting older is getting to enjoy live shows with my dad, who raised me on a lot of the musical gold of the 70s and 80s. In fact, he got to see so many shows in the time that bands were “in their prime” (see below of a show with Faces, Jeff Beck and the opener… Aerosmith). When the opportunity to see Rod Stewart and Cheap Trick outside Atlanta at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre came up, it was a no-brainer, as our musical tastes have almost intertwined in my 30s (he is in his 70s). We are both Stewarts also, so it felt like seeing our brethren was required viewing.
Cheap Trick didn’t just open the night, they invaded it with unyielding energy and rock ‘n’ roll bravado. Their performance was all grit and excitement, led by three original members: Rick Nielsen’s iconic guitar work and undeniable stage presence, Tom Petersson’s bass acumen, and Robin Zander‘s vocals. Tracks like “High Roller,” “If You Want My Love,” and deep cuts like “Lookout” and “Clock Strikes Ten” showcased their versatile catalog, while anthems like “The Flame,” “I Want You to Want Me,” and “Surrender” ignited the crowd—especially when the audience surged during “Surrender.” Their longtime chemistry, felt both familiar and invigorating. Far from a nostalgic filler act, they delivered full-throttle rock that set the perfect tone.
Rod Stewart followed with a performance that was both a career retrospective and a masterclass in showmanship. In the Alpharetta GA moonlight, he embodied a charm, swagger, and a show production worthy of Las Vegas—complete with mirrored stages, women singers dressed to the nines, video screens, and a full ensemble. And the best part of it all was that his voice has held up and sounds fantastic. He also did not miss a chance to promote his favorite soccer (ahem, football) club, Celtic F.C.
Strutting across the stage, Stewart delivered hits like “Infatuation,” “Maggie May,” “Forever Young,” “Hot Legs,” “Young Turks,” and more, interwoven with spirited covers, costume changes and clever staging. He even included a Faces tunes, “Ooh La La,” which was a highlight of the night.
As we walked to the car during the encore I asked my dad his thoughts having seen Stewart a few times and that epic show in the 70s. He thought this show reigned supreme, in part due to the advancements in sound and stage production. The show was a fantastic display of musicianship and a man who was built to be an entertainer.
The result? A concert that felt larger than life—nostalgic yet fully alive, as my dad would agree.
