SARATOGA REPORT

Rock Nostalgia Reigns at SPAC: Rod Stewart’s “One Last Time” Tour Lights Up Saratoga


Written by AI, edited by Saratoga Report Publisher Dan De Federicis

Last evening at the Broadview Stage of Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the unmistakable gravel of Rod Stewart’s voice rolled across the spacious lawn, carrying decades of rock ’n’ roll memories under the starlit sky. It was the first—and only—New York State stop on his One Last Time North American Tour, and graciously supported by openers Cheap Trick, the evening felt like a heartfelt tribute not only to Stewart’s storied career but to the enduring power of live performance.

Opening Act: Cheap Trick Warming Up the Crowd

Cheap Trick hit the stage early, kicking off their set with tight renditions of ”I Want You to Want Me” and ”Surrender.” Their high-energy performance set the tone, dismantling any notion of a laid-back evening. Lead singer Robin Zander and guitarist Rick Nielsen commanded the stage, and by the time they closed with ”Dream Police,” the audience was already on its feet. Their chemistry was evident—and an ideal prelude to Stewart’s headlining presence

A Stage Shared by Six Decades of Hits

As the clock struck 7:30 p.m., Stewart appeared, bathed in a warm emerald spotlight, opening with the unmistakable chord progression of “Maggie May.” It was a show of showmanship and heritage, seamlessly flowing from tender ballads to jaunty rockers. Highlights included:
  • “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” – Provocative and fun, Stewart’s cheeky wink to the crowd brought everyone to their feet Lite 98.7Lite 98.7+5Happening Next+5rodstewartsaratoga.com+5.
  • “Forever Young” – Emotional and uplifting, his timeless anthem carried a palpable sense of reflection.
  • “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” – A softer moment that showcased his still-powerful vocal control.
  • A surprise solo acoustic break featuring “Every Picture Tells a Story”, which drew appreciative hush before a roaring applause.
Though the precise setlist is still populating online archives, local fans confirmed the appearance of most of these classics, aligning closely with tour trends.

A Voice With Time-Worn Elegance

At 80, Stewart still commands the stage. His voice, while perhaps softer in edges than in his younger days, retained its gravelly charm and emotional urgency. His delivery of “You Wear It Well” and “Tonight’s the Night” drifted with nostalgic comfort, arguably more poignant now than ever before. Audience responses were enthusiastic, with Howard Johnson from near the front noting, “It felt like we were all revisiting our youth—he’s still got that spark.”

The Saratoga Factor

SPAC’s lush, open-air environment—with the ancient mineral springs and rolling parkland as backdrop—provided intimate yet grand ambiance. A light breeze from the nearby wooded perimeter mixed with carefully curated stage lighting to craft a seamless, mellow vibe. The setting matched Stewart’s narrative of memory and farewell.

A Farewell to Remember

Despite the tour’s title, Stewart engaged with the crowd warmly, quipping, “One last time—but what a time to be here with you in Saratoga!” He encored with a rousing “Ooh La La”, bringing both band and audience full circle, closing a night of celebration and gratitude.

Final Thoughts

Rod Stewart delivered what feels like a culminating chapter of a storied career—balancing stylish swagger with reflective sentiment. Supported ably by Cheap Trick, it was a concert that didn’t merely revisit old hits—it honored them, revived them, and reminded us why they still matter. For the thousands who gathered on that pleasant July night in Saratoga Springs, it was more than a show—it was a shared memorialization of rock’s rich tapestry.
Bottom Line: Stewart’s “One Last Time” concert at SPAC was a resonant mix of nostalgia, joy, and graceful passage—an evening both retrospective and vibrant. A fitting spectacle to end the summer season at one of the region’s most iconic venues.