Rod Stewart Uses Oxygen Tank During Utah Concert, Tour Cancellations Continue
Rod Stewart, 81, paused mid-concert in Utah on Saturday to use an oxygen tank, according to video footage shared by TMZ. The British singer, known for his One Last Time tour, was seen leaning forward on stage before staff intervened. A medical team later brought an oxygen cylinder to the venue, according to multiple reports. Stewart returned to the stage moments later, quipping, “The show must go on,” before adding, “I almost lost consciousness.”
What Happened During the Utah Concert?
The incident occurred during a performance in Salt Lake City, where Stewart was seen struggling to remain upright. TMZ’s video shows the singer gripping stage equipment as crew members approached. A medical team soon arrived, and an oxygen tank was placed near the stage. Stewart later returned, sitting on a chair for the remainder of the show. His team confirmed the singer had been battling a respiratory infection and laryngitis, which forced the cancellation of several tour dates earlier this month.
How Has the Tour Been Affected?
The Utah concert follows a string of tour disruptions. In early April, Stewart postponed Las Vegas residency shows after testing positive for influenza. His management stated at the time that an upper respiratory infection and laryngitis had left him unable to perform. “I feel much better after treatment, but my voice isn’t ready yet,” Stewart wrote on social media ahead of a canceled show. The latest incident has raised concerns about the singer’s health, though no official update has been released since the Utah performance.
What Is Known About Stewart’s Health?
Stewart’s medical history includes multiple hospitalizations for heart-related issues, including a 2019 emergency room visit for chest pain. His current condition, as described by his team, involves a “severe upper respiratory infection” and laryngitis. Dr. Michael J. Hwang, an ENT specialist, noted that such conditions can significantly impact vocal performance and require extended recovery. “Even with treatment, vocal cords need time to heal,” Hwang said. “Premature performance risks further complications.”
Why Does This Matter for His Career?
Stewart’s tour has faced repeated delays, with fans expressing frustration over the uncertainty. The singer, who has sold over 100 million records globally, has not confirmed whether the Utah incident will lead to additional cancellations. His last major tour, “The Great American Songbook,” faced similar issues in 2017, with Stewart citing “fatigue and strain” as reasons for rescheduling dates. Industry analysts suggest the current setbacks could impact his legacy as a live performer. “His ability to maintain his vocal stamina is critical to his brand,” said music industry analyst Sarah Lin. “Each incident adds to the narrative of his physical limitations.”