Rod Stewart - The Killing Of Georgie (Part I & II) (Official Video)

[@RadagonTheRed]

This song was half a century ahead of its time.

[@kulmainer]

Yes it was!

[@richardplume3212]

Agree segregation is disintergraton of a civilised socioty

[@kulmainer]

@@richardplume3212 , thanks

[@kerryblyth2469]

And yet it shouldn't of been 😢

[@kulmainer]

@@kerryblyth2469 , Thanks, Greetings out of Free State of Bavaria. This was one of Rods greatest songs! Roland

[@KennyAdamchak-tm3dk]

Rod never got enough credit for this song. It’s a work of art and he addressed relevant subject matter and all the while , he weaves a beautiful song. And you don’t have to be gay to be moved by all that’s happening here.

[@firstnamelastname6193]

This man exposed his soul with this song and did not care if it would impact his career which at the time was unthinkable. I wish I had known about this song growing up as it now sheds so much light on who Rod Stewart is as a human being. Back then it would have been considered career suicide to come out as gay or even create art that was gay themed. Rod cared not and poured out his heart and soul in order to pay homage to his dear friend. There were not gay people on television back then. There were no gay themed films at that time. Movie and television stars did not come out as gay. Musical artists would flirt with the idea and tease the public but they certainly did not admit to being LGBTQ. Rod deserves mad respect and I admire him for honoring his friend despite the public backlash he might endure - even if it meant that it would harm his career. A true ally before being an ally was trendy.

[@pattyhaley2949]

Rod always stayed true to who he was ❤❤. He was raised by a very loving Mom and Dad. His Dad was his greatest hero. If anything , this song catapulted him into super stardom. I'm 64 and have been a Die hard fan since I was a young girl. What a VOICE ❤❤❤

[@AH-fi8yp]

I agree 100% ! Respected the guy as a talented musician but this must've been ground-breaking at the time and as said previously, could've been career suicide. Rod seriously went up in my estimations when I learned about this song - and only recently too.

[@lonnierapp2423]

Rod Stewart was not gay… Far from it. He had gay friends. Here are his comments: The story is based on a real man named Georgie, whom Stewart knew, but was a closer friend of Faces’ keyboardist Ian MacLagan. “I only knew him fleetingly,” Stewart told the Guardian in 2016. “He would play songs for us and say, ‘Have you heard this?’ I remember him turning us on to Sam and Dave singing ‘Night Time Is the Right Time’. I can tell you, he was a hell of a good-looking guy.” Stewart later opined that he wrote ‘The Killing of Georgie’ “probably because I was surrounded by gay people at that stage. I had a gay PR man, a gay manager. Everyone around me was gay. I don’t know whether that prompted me into it or not. I think it was a brave step, but it wasn’t a risk. You can’t write a song like that unless you’ve experienced it. But it was a subject that no one had approached before. And I think it still stands up today.”

[@lonnierapp2423]

Rod was not gay and he never had a gay experience… These are his comments: The story is based on a real man named Georgie, whom Stewart knew, but was a closer friend of Faces’ keyboardist Ian MacLagan. “I only knew him fleetingly,” Stewart told the Guardian in 2016. “He would play songs for us and say, ‘Have you heard this?’ I remember him turning us on to Sam and Dave singing ‘Night Time Is the Right Time’. I can tell you, he was a hell of a good-looking guy.” Stewart later opined that he wrote ‘The Killing of Georgie’ “probably because I was surrounded by gay people at that stage. I had a gay PR man, a gay manager. Everyone around me was gay. I don’t know whether that prompted me into it or not. I think it was a brave step, but it wasn’t a risk. You can’t write a song like that unless you’ve experienced it. But it was a subject that no one had approached before. And I think it still stands up today.”

[@lonnierapp2423]

Rod was not gay and he never had a gay experience… These are his comments: The story is based on a real man named Georgie, whom Stewart knew, but was a closer friend of Faces’ keyboardist Ian MacLagan. “I only knew him fleetingly,” Stewart told the Guardian in 2016. “He would play songs for us and say, ‘Have you heard this?’ I remember him turning us on to Sam and Dave singing ‘Night Time Is the Right Time’. I can tell you, he was a hell of a good-looking guy.” Stewart later opined that he wrote ‘The Killing of Georgie’ “probably because I was surrounded by gay people at that stage. I had a gay PR man, a gay manager. Everyone around me was gay. I don’t know whether that prompted me into it or not. I think it was a brave step, but it wasn’t a risk. You can’t write a song like that unless you’ve experienced it. But it was a subject that no one had approached before. And I think it still stands up today.”

[@graemeaiken6444]

It is easy to forget now what a ground breaking song this was for an artist like Rod in 1976. Still an amazing and great song with a message as relevant today as it was then.

[@maldonboy1]

I was born in 1977, Rod was my Mum's idol... This song means alot to me...

[@yesidid]

No truer words have ever been spoken !

[@grahambooker8383]

Love most of Rod's stuff, but to me, his groundbreaking song was Maggie May in 1971 and just got better from there.

[@davidtalany2153]

He ripped off 'Don't Bring me Down' By the Beatles. How is that groundbreaking?

[@peterk7734]

​@@davidtalany2153 😂

[@billjohnston5833]

This is what makes Rod Stewart Rod Stewart. No one else can touch this. Rod will always be a legend.

[@steveeyre6975]

I wouldn't go legend- but he did a few good tunes -like this one

[@charliedickens248]

@@steveeyre6975 shut up

[@frankchris07]

Speak the truth Bill "Legend" Kids will never know.

[@bax6096]

This song is sooo gay ..

[@greg-warsaw4708]

Great song from a hell of an artist. Still, listening to the first part I hear some Paul Simon's style in it, don't you? Which does not take anything away from the song, of course, just an association.

[@letitrest4662]

No one but Mr. Rod Stewart could have pulled that song off in 1976, AND ESPECIALLY made it a hit. Such a talent, and a unique voice and individual for his day, and even today. Thanks, Rod. Long life and lots of love.

[@AH-fi8yp]

Absolutely! The year before I was born. This could've meant risking husband career but he stuck strong to his beliefs

[@beachboy13600]

knob cheese

[@ABdareJAG]

Powerful lyrics by a fantastic vocalist, way ahead of his time.Thank you for a true stand out song 👏👏👏👏👏

[@richardplume3212]

Agree look in the mirror before pointing fingers

[@arthurdent6828]

I had no idea this song ever existed. I'm absolutely amazed how far ahead of the times ( yes, I know, almost everyone has said as much but its so true) this actually is. It's given me a totally different perspective on Rod Stewart too, this is just too good.

[@ABdareJAG]

We really do learn something new every day. Discovery is a remarkable thing. 👏👏👏

[@ppw2393]

​@@arthurdent6828 Do yourself a favor and listen to the old Rod Stewart music, start with Faces, A Nod is Good As A Wink.... Of course Every Picture Tells A Story.

[@deanholland3055]

I used to hear this song as a child over and over. I never had a clue what it was about. Massive respect to Rod Stewart for doing it in a different time when things wasn’t so forgiving. ❤

[@elizabethmcgregor4062]

wow...............this is why u tube is nice!! get to see really blast from the past analize what you miss for many years

[@sj49770]

I was about kindergarten-age and I asked my Mom what "all the old queens blew a fuse" meant. She said Queens is one of the districts in New York City and they had a lot of power outages there 😂

[@timcyr3457]

i am 58 just relized what the song was about been listen since 82 u go rod

[@timcyr3457]

the best album ever the pink album

[@Framinator]

Same here. The subject of the song was something as a 7 year old I wasn't aware of

[@Caperhere]

This is the song that turned me from being ignorant to being compassionate and open, and accepting that love is love. Thank you . Beautiful performance.♥️

[@michaelcrone1433]

My dad listened to it...that says a lot.

[@spello8191]

Wow your comment the complete what this track is about! Thank you!

[@lynnbaker2336]

" his ( insert religion here) mothers tears fell in vain, the afternoon George tried to explain, that he needed love like all the rest"😢

[@patriciaparga6131]

This song makes me cry. One of my very good friends Sammie passed away in the 80s from AIDS. In Eager Arizona. He was shuned by that little Pation Place. My son also is Gay, this song really touched my heart. Their was so much hatered. RIP Sammy.

[@Trishno6]

So sorry for your loss 😢

[@sheilagarrido8204]

❤

[@janepearson1454]

This is a true story of a friend of Rod Stewart. He cared enough to make a song in his memory;. He is a gem. xx

[@spello8191]

It’s a great experience that’s been shared🙏

[@stewbeattie4316]

Definitely how lovely and sad is this track!! What's going on with people??

[@davebumpus9154]

My mother was a huge RS fan, I must’ve heard all these songs growing up a million times. Love them all. Most these days have never heard them. Sad, great music

[@rshauser7586]

@@spello8191 A song story telling masterpiece.

[@nigelarbury1042]

The guys on a different level, think my sister has seenhimover 30 times. I love lots of different music but always go back to Rod for something special

[@prowelsh56]

the Lad is genius...all of us who grew up with him in the 70's...begrudge him nothing and wish only for his best and that of the family...he got use through so many of our teenage years of angst...his songs can take me back to an excat place and time in my life ( now 66) and I feel so frigging lucky to have had him on our side and his music...xx

[@jacquelinefox2632]

What now? Can you whistle like him? Bet all is good with you. J xxxxx

[@prowelsh56]

@@jacquelinefox2632 all is GRRREEEAAAT with me. Thank you for asking. Happy New Year!

[@timothyallen3626]

that is a great tribute to Rod a lot of his songs take me back to any number of my high school sweetharts.

[@prowelsh56]

@@timothyallen3626 absolutely right..but I wasnt quite as cool as Rod Stweart...tried but always missed the mark. Best wishes to you.

[@mradrianmarkpenn6370]

touching touching comments..!!

[@8Namaste]

I have tears in my eyes every time I listen to Rod Stewart sing "The Killing of George!" Yet I come back to listen again.

[@curtismmichaels]

You're not alone. Such a beautiful heart.

[@8Namaste]

@@curtismmichaels Thank you, Curtis! You wouldn't see a beautiful heart in me if you, too, didn't have a beautiful heart! Many blessings!

[@ACNC1]

does part II meant to sound like Don't let me down by The Beatles?

[@davidpopplewell8108]

It reminds me of being in my youth early teens

[@curtismmichaels]

@@ACNC1 Of course I can't know the intention, but now that you mention it, that's an interesting question.

[@user-uu6tl8gl2w]

I am a straight Male nurse, of 37 years I remember when this came out, and I ask what happened to all the love of the 70s . It truly was the best music and the freedoms were more than young people today can imagine.

[@sgtpppr]

It's odd, though society has become incredibly explicit and sex obsessed these are also very conservative times

[@stonecookie]

The internet happened. Less human contact happened. We lost face to face meetings and time, and compassion, and empathy along with it. But we got faster fancier machines.

[@ens7ob]

We also Religion and believing that we have to answer to a God when were done.@@stonecookie

[@skypurplecloud]

I was about 8 years old when this came out and it was played a lot in the 80s. Haven't heard it in a few years but still brings a tear to my eye.

[@lisascorp]

I love male nurses. The ones I have been treated by have always been Incredible. I think it's great that more men are going into the field, both straight and gay.

[@bluaway30]

This is one of the greatest songs not to be recognized by the music industry. I just love it!

[@Limeydawg-1973]

The best songs are seldom recognized due to to the fact it's all about sales. Which is sad. I agree with you my friend. It is one of the all-time best.

[@yvonnemulder9038]

I sing it every day

[@yvonnemulder9038]

Caledonia y d George

[@garylee3893]

Me too. He has many more, Rod Stewart is totally equivalent to Jagger

[@jenniferhall9953]

Agreed. Remake potential? Maybe it could be a hit today.

[@jr2kewl]

This song saved my life. I'll never forget Mr. Stewart's courage and empathy in putting this out when he did! I'm forever indebted to you, Mr. Rod Stewart! ❤🧡💛💚💙💜

[@michaelt3308]

Nobody gives a shit about you being gay. Trust me , you're not that important. Fantastic song though. On my gym PL

[@Bedmoments]

I think George is Rods gay side that had to be ‘killed’ to enable him to keep his career……

[@Trishno6]

I'm so glad you are ok god bless you ❤

[@brenhinbranko8614]

​@@Trishno6I second that

[@RacerX-pm8hg]

What courage it must have taken for Rod Stewart to release this song, in the prime of his career, dealing with such a taboo subject. I have total respect for him. Great song by a great artist. Part 2 is vintage Rod.....such a passionate god given raspy voice. Gives me chills when he sings like that.

[@OneFlewOverTheCuckoo1999]

RacerX 4324 Yeah I agree. Georgie was lucky to be friends with Sir Rod Stewart.

[@alfreda2711]

Ian Kensington I agree ☝️

[@spello8191]

@RacerX 4324. It’s a song of compassion, including humanity. 🙏

[@spello8191]

@RacerX 4324🙏

[@greigwalker9587]

Absolutely

[@josjanssen6733]

This is a great song for three reasons. First of all it has a message that matters. If you don't appreciate that you have a heart of stone. Secondly because it's a great composition. Fine musical figures, great melody. Thirdly because it is immaculately excuted. Great instrumental arrangement, wonderful sound mixing. A gem in the history of pop music that will live forever.

[@mradrianmarkpenn6370]

Very very well written stuff..( !) (!)

[@carolmckellar8819]

I felt all Rod the mod’s music is fabulously made loved rod from the first time I heard Maggie May I-LISTENED&danced to him ❤❤❤❤❤ still do lm 64

[@mradrianmarkpenn6370]

Technically very very well written, and all very accurate and moving comments. Keep in touch, adrian

[@bebeautiful6613]

@@carolmckellar8819I absolutely agree! We were so very lucky to grow up in the era of music that we did. The greatest music era of all time. Will love Rod Stewart for ever.🤍💙

[@tama3077]

今でもこの曲を聴くと、胸が熱くなります。

[@JM800]

I purchased the album in 1976 for other songs. I was 16, a bit naive about the world. I am straight, as I've always been. This song opened my eyes to more of the world. It is a beautiful song. It was done tastefully and will always be played by me. It is not an anthem for a cause, just a heartfelt story of the human race.

[@collinjohnson1398]

I agree. Beautiful and heart breaking song......I feel ya brother.....peace and love to you on this day of 2024.......still relevant

[@thomascarter198]

@@collinjohnson1398 I am a straight male man grew in New York. Knew the location of this song too. Back then nobody thought anything about being gay or straight. Neither black or white. All we did is accept someone. Now things are so messed up

[@wendyh2235]

@@collinjohnson1398 Nothing more or nothing less xx

[@coam3708]

Oh la la was the album I think

[@pbohearn]

In a time when homosexuality was roundly and self righteously, condemned, Rod was a lone voice asking us to see their humanity. That was very courageous of him. This was long before Elton John’s, or George Michael’s coming out.

[@kathleenryan3634]

Gx

[@steveturnbull7869]

I get this, credit to him

[@jaysurf230]

Billy's my sisters dog leave home alone he was gay and not alive anymore you should have more love fir the world

[@jaysurf230]

So was my sister s French bulldog

[@jaysurf230]

Another dog you get it

[@johnbruno7614]

There's only one word for Rod Stewart and that's (amazing) this artist has been putting out some of the greatest songs for almost 5 decades. A true legend.

[@loki6253]

And now ANOTHER

[@johnbruno7614]

@@loki6253 Yes and now another. 👍💓😊

[@glennkarant6760]

"Along the boulevards he cruised and all the old queens blew a fuse" might simply be one of the best lyrics in the annals of rock and roll history...

[@izzycoco3931]

Love it.

[@3DogSound]

There are many great lines in Rock Music, this song gave me so much hope growing up in a small town in Iowa in the 70’s. (I know the whole killed by a gang on the street isn’t ideal) That mantra that Rod quoted, “Never wait or hesitate, get in good before it’s too late, You may never get another chance.” That spoke right to me at 10 years old.

[@loki6253]

Ain't that the truth?

[@normafoster1959]

everybody loved Georgie boy.....

[@slashholt23]

Yellow mutter custard is up there too.

[@shagnastius1960ify]

An absolute masterpiece, hauntingly beautiful song.

[@bernadettevan305]

I so agree !

[@b-43214]

What an incredibly touching yet tragic song. God bless Rod Stewart for doing this song and bringing awareness where it was needed! 🥲🙏💞

[@jasper9420]

It was his friend so why wouldn't he

[@jaysurf230]

It is only a record though??????

[@hawkeye1836]

44yrs.1976, and this is still one of the greatest songs ever written. Sir Rod, we Love ya Brother

[@spello8191]

You had me at “Hawkeye” the rest falls into place nicely

[@diannepeterson696]

For the longest time my early teens I thought Rod Stewart was gay which I didnt care about it one way or another I loved him no matter what but I soon educated myself. I loved him in my 20s,30s 40s,50s now I am close to 60 and I love him I think I always will

[@pattyhaley2949]

Me too friend, me too. One of the greatest voices and I'm 64. Loved him since I was a young girl. Long live my Dear Roddy ❤❤❤❤

[@lawro04]

One of the greatest songs ever as well as one of the most tragic. This sums up Sir Rod. A decent, honourable human being that is never afraid to break boundaries in his songwriting. This is his greatest moment.

[@ace-of-space]

Most definitely, brother.

[@debbiewalker1399]

This is how great Rod is, he doesn't disimigrate people. So nice he wrote a song about his friend

[@djsimonrossprice9400]

Greatest lyric in History of song. " Youths a mask but it dont last. Live it long, and live it fast." Live summed up in 14 words.

[@skybridg5705]

This song taught me at a young age to have compassion for all people ❤

[@pietermijnarends6908]

So pure, yet so strong; Sir Rod

[@alyssa-jadelynnebutlin7778]

To see in the comments here that this song taught somebody to have compassion for all people.. That’s just so beautiful to see! Their are decent people in the world 🌎 after all

[@claireryan2641]

Etc foe you xx

[@mradrianmarkpenn6370]

Sweet comment and we wish there were more in this world like yourselves..!!

[@jamesslick4790]

And the murder wasn't even due to homophobia, it was an "ordinary" street robbery. NYC was HELL in the 1970s. So much better today (despite what people think).

[@debbiewalker1399]

Loved his music when I was 16 now I'm 62 and play his songs every day. What a legend.

[@Trishno6]

I was 16 to

[@twhj363]

I was 13. Still love it.

[@jotaylor2]

I'm 60

[@richardplume3212]

@@jotaylor2 4561s my number still listnin to great tunes and hav beautifull grandson named hendrix

[@kathycamasso6672]

Same! I used to play Atlantic Crossings over and over!

[@dadangus100]

Rod Stewart stood above all other singers of the time with his courage to use this song to acknowledge gay men as his friends .

[@amsodoneworkingnow1978]

And despite the fact that the BBC banned it it became mega hit.

[@johncutts-kq9vw]

I think it encouraged Tom Robinson t make Sing If your glad To Be Gay

[@dadangus100]

@@johncutts-kq9vw The fact that georgie was a gay hustler not just a gay friend made the song even more powerful I think

[@dominickmilano4858]

George was a troubled young man engaging in bad behavior

[@richardplume3212]

Agree trajic we cant acsept all our diferenses

[@vidarlarsen748]

This song is actually written by Rod. It's one of the greatest songs of all time, in my opinion.

[@debbierangel557]

I agree. The sad thing is, most radio stations didn't have the balls to give it air time. I'm always amazed at how many people have never heard it. Truly a classic, by one of the best voices in rock and roll. Peace.

[@dianneyoung7322]

Its actually my favourite rod song

[@douglastrazzare3298]

part II is borrowed from the Beatles, don't let me down

[@dwightdodd3734]

agreed.............

[@hawkeye1836]

I Agree completely, hit repeat again for me.

[@mthorntonwolfe]

Possibly the greatest story telling song ever. Anyone who has ever listened has envisioned a mini movie in their mind.

[@michaelfinn7871]

The story telling is pure Bob Dylan., oooosss Lou Reed and the second bit the Beatles.

[@BibtheBoulder]

Along with 'The Wombles', picking up the litter dropped on Wimbledon Common...

[@lesleyrennie8661]

I agree.

[@rabit818]

Rod Stewart took a risk on this song. Great story telling. Wonderful song.

[@johnscanlan9335]

Rod Stewart has always been an amazing balladeer!

[@paulmorris8775]

No Risk it's 1 a true sad story 2 it's Rod Stewart x

[@mistermister8593]

35 Year old straight male. This is one of my favourite songs. Just last week i seen him live. 78 uears old past his prime but still fantastic. Great showman great performer and a fantasic crowd worker. ❤

[@vitordragon]

Rod was ahead of his time - he sang it when it was not easy to say anything about this subject. Great, great song! Thanks, Rod!

[@stevenaylor8642]

I'm a straight man but fully understand this great song

[@totall2952]

Me to brother

[@noneyerbidness]

Congratulations.

[@joemaguire8700]

Me2

[@APRIL916]

"Georgie was a friend of mine" That gets me every time 😢

[@christinescarff4920]

I’ve known a few gay guys and it’s true, they DO make wonderful friends !

[@Angie-jm8kp]

Me too, this song still makes me cry, beautiful ❤️

[@spello8191]

Same🇦🇺

[@spello8191]

@@christinescarff4920 my wife and I have a number of gay friends. They are such beautiful people who have been there for us!

[@christinescarff4920]

@@spello8191 I am SO old , I never knew a gay guy when I was young cos it had not long since been decriminalised ! But my daughter has several gay friends who I’ve known quite well over the years ( she’s nearly 36 now ! ) and they really are lovely people and have been really good friends to her . The problem is that my cousin an apparently hardline ‘ good churchgoing catholic ‘ has turned out to be gay and has a Hong Kong Chinese partner , but he and his mother sent my ‘ non catholic ‘ father ‘ to Coventry ‘ for the entire 24 years he lived after my mother’s death basically just because he wasn’t a bloody catholic ! And once when staying with the same aunt overnight I was going to Mass on the Sunday morning with her and her catholic husband ( I’m catholic too ! ) and my ‘ non catholic ‘ husband expressed the wish to come to church with us and my aunt said at the top of her voice ‘ don’t let W come with us Christine , cos he isn’t a catholic ‘ ! My ‘ good catholic’ aunt masked the fact that her son was a promiscuous gay ( and in hindsight he WAS promiscuous ) but permitted herself to despise my father even though he was a ‘ thinking ‘ confirmed Anglican ! It seems to be - I’m allowed my prejudice but I’ll mask things so you can’t show yours ! My cousin told me he was in a civil partnership the day before my daughter’s wedding ( I actually thought he was just going to finally tell me he was gay ! ) as he’s her godfather and was playing the church organ for her wedding and he told me to phone and tell my dad . My dad nearly collapsed in a heap I could tell , cos he’d been ostracised for just being a practising Christian of another denomination whereas my cousin’s promiscuous homosexual activities had just been hidden by all the ‘ saintly ‘ catholic family !! Finally, I watched a programme on BBC1 a few months ago about a group in Ireland trying to organise an LBTQ rally during the covid restrictions and one of the organisers said he was quite religious and has thought of becoming an evangelical minister and later you saw him in the Orange Order uniform and marching through Belfast in one of those dreadful Orange order ‘ celebrations ‘. So he wanted to be accepted as gay or ‘ bicurious ‘ or whatever , but he clearly hated catholics ! They say ‘ my enemy’s enemy is my friend ‘ but it seems more like ‘ my enemy’s prejudice is my enemy , but my prejudice is my friend ‘ !! Incidentally 2 more members of my mum’s family ( my cousins ) have now turned out to be bisexual and dumped their wives and children !! There’s nowt as QUEER as folk - ha ! ha! ha ! 🤷‍♀🙃🤪😂

[@marionfitness5509]

I love, love, love this. Black ,white, gay, straight .transgender. We all want the same thing, someone to love who loves us back. Not much to ask for really.

[@DavidJohnson-lg3de]

This should be made into a movie, with a 70s background. Great song no doubt. Love you Rod....

[@Oliias]

It's quite incredible to hear the lyrics of this song in the world of today. Yes, in the 70's,this was a great song but listening to the lyrics, here in 2024, it's a song for the future that we didn't realise back then.

[@dean7045]

I GIVE THIS SONG THE RARE DISTINCTION OF BEING A MASTERPIECE

[@izzycoco3931]

A masterpiece and very haunting.

[@izzycoco3931]

Georgie boy. Haunting story of the 70s. One of Rod Stewart's best performances.

[@maryjobyrd5250]

Truly a masterpiece.

[@patrickfleming3658]

Yes so true

[@david-dj8or]

It seems to be accepted as more of a true masterpiece, with the passing of time.

[@Chrismiklas667]

This song was ahead of it's time and is as relevant now as it was when it was written.

[@SpiritsEnchantments]

In 1969, I was 11 years old. I didn't know then that I was gay, but I always felt something different. This song resonated throughout my life. It touched people so deeply who were living in the closet because coming out back then was asking to be harassed, beat up, locked up in mental institutions, shunned by family, killed on the street; we were banned from living within the mainstream of society if we were ever found out. It branded us in such a hurtful way. Now I look back where it began and I am so glad we no longer have to hide. Yet, back then, once we discovered who we were and we began to find others like ourselves, it was magical and beautiful and painful. For people now who weren't alive during the the Stonewall Rebellion on June 28, 1969, or if you have never heard of the history that began the Gay Rights movement, do your research and be thankful that others came out, found their courage, and changed the world for future generations. This is one song that truly gave us heartache and courage. It was devastating to listen to, yet many of us listened to it over and over.

[@carolewilson1311]

SpiritsEnchantments so did straight people

[@otisbentley8277]

Me & my future wife first saw rod in 1977. We were 15. Since then we've seen him 10 times. She finally told me she was bi. Life has been wonderful since then!

[@johnlennonsstalker2560]

@@otisbentley8277 aww that’s so sweet! ❤️❤️ I am bi aswell

[@tck23456]

I'm a newer Rod fan. I'm 43 lol but my Dad took me to see Rod is 88 when I was 10 and he explained to me I could learn from him and Bruce. He was so right

[@normafoster1959]

Heartbreaking. This song has been among my top ten since I was a teenager. This video is gorgeous, because he gets back to himself quickly and delivers the lyrics, after a disoriented start, which in itself is gorgeous.

[@willgracie]

I’m in tears at the poignancy and beauty and fierceness of the gorgeous piece❤️🌟

[@christinerooney5756]

I am a 33 year old, straight woman... and this is my favourite Rod Stewart song of all time. It doesn't effect me in any way but what an absolutely beautifully written song. ❤️❤️❤️

[@debrawatson8198]

i agree with that!

[@nenezeh]

Me too. Absolutely love it

[@StarHaven64]

Wait it doesn't effect you in any way at all? Im a straight man, 27 year old. Never heard of Rod Stewart and this song effects me on some interesting levels. This is a pretty cool and groovy song!

[@davidmellish3295]

@@StarHaven64 I'm sorry but have you lived under a rock in the Amazon jungle all your life? How is is possible to be alive for 27 years and never heard of Rod Stewart? I'm not calling you a liar ( can't see why you'd make that up ) BUT it blows my mind that at nearly 30 you've never heard of Rod Stewart. Or did you mean that you'd not listened to his music ? Cause OK I can see that,BUT to never have heard of the man,one of the biggest rock stars on the planet for over 50 years is just incredible. The man is in the Guinness book of world records for playing to the biggest ever live audience of 3.4 million people on copercabana beach in 1994. He's a living legend, it's like saying you've never heard of The Rolling Stones or Elton John etc I didn't think it was possible 😂

[@Spyglass2024]

@@davidmellish3295 you don't know 27yo's today. They shock me for the wrong reasons; most haven't heard of a lot of great artists bc algorithms just push echo chambers

[@kalania14]

One of the best songs of the time...both in message of the story and musicality...it was a song way ahead of its time. You can't help but love George!!! Rod Stewart has such a unique way of telling this story...the ending of the song is still my all time favorite in its heartbreaking beauty

[@richardplume3212]

Agree kindness and respect for everyone regardless is free

[@eddionrodanronnie]

One of the most beautiful songs ever written Rod’s vocals are just so beautiful I have heard this song a thousand times and it’s still like the first play Rod Stewart is one the greatest vocalists this world has had To lend a helping hand in extremely difficult times, this song must have been a Godsend And it's just as relevant to this day

[@cerriberry6835]

Took the words right out of my mouth 👍🥰

[@spello8191]

@@cerriberry6835took the words from your mouth but from your heart too

[@Redboy4]

Indeed, it was a godsend for me at my young age back then, I can tell you that.

[@cerriberry6835]

@@spello8191 you said it better that me 💖

[@cerriberry6835]

@Filippo you have some really cool play lists, hope you don’t mind I sub’d

[@amandaburke1808]

Whos listening to this Classic in 2024 ❤

[@cq9882]

🇦🇺💗

[@jaysurf230]

Me Jay and billy

[@jaysurf230]

Little bills life's ended

[@jaysurf230]

He sang it well with me (Billy was a friend mine)

[@catherinereynolds5762]

Elton John love.

[@rosiebgocats1]

Rod is such a wonderful storyteller! This is a really beautiful song that I had forgotten but love ❤️

[@spello8191]

A remarkable story of compassion and empathy. One of the greatest tracks of its time.

[@beverlygallagher4333]

I had a gay friend named George in Boston and he was killed by a knife and I've never forgotten how much a amused vehicle how much we loved him And this song was always with Georgie in My heart and my thoughts I am now 74 I was a young girl who loved George 1st time I ever heard it I thought he wrote it for my George

[@jaysurf230]

My sister s French bulldog died 1 half years ago *I swap georgie fir billy and cry when I sing he was 4 years old love you from jay

[@jaysurf230]

Really Beverly that's very sad my sisters dog 1 and half years ago so I swap georgie boy fir billy boy and sing it to him Jay in poole dorset england

[@richardplume3212]

Thank you for a reality check treat every one as you would like to be treated segrigation is disintergration of a civilised socioty

[@richardplume3212]

Segrigation is disintergration of a civilised socioty

[@Trishno6]

So sorry for your loss 😢

[@steviecarlstrom]

This song had such an impact on me, because at the time, I was in high school, and had 2 friends who were cruely harassed for being Gay. I never understood in my mind how anyone could not accept another human being for being a bit different. Years later, sadly, I found out one of them met the same demise as Georgie.....to this day, hearing this song opens the floodgates for me....

[@JudyJean-j2]

I just love the way Rod presented this story - the expressiveness is outstanding- the white outfit, the thoughtfilled, pregnant pauses, the whistling with the arm movements, the look in his eyes, the hand in the pocket, the photo-shoot swagger, the soft twirls, lean ins and lean outs, the step- aways, the jacket being clung to, the facial and bodilyn expression.. the way he delivered his voice to each line and part of the story. Beautiful, mesmerizing. I only wish I had seen and heard this years ago !

[@loralieisa]

Rod Stewart is an incredible talent. He killed it literally with this one and he took on a daring risk.

[@gloriamaryhaywood2217]

Eexcellent description! You have awesome observation!!!😎

[@sgtpppr]

Absolutely. The facial angles he gave the camera, profile, forward. Calculated but he made it look spontaneous, never contrived. A spectacle of lights and production can never match an artists performance

[@tracyhopkins8452]

This story is so sad, still makes me cry when he sings "Oh Georgie stay, don't go away, Georgie please stay, you take our breath away" and Rod sings it like he can bring Georgie back to us. Thanks so much for sharing

[@natalieshort5768]

Me too

[@dominickmilano4858]

Very unfortunate and sad that George engaged in inhuman acts!

[@damianmorrison209]

Domanick malano go fuck yourself

[@etersmith4868]

@@dominickmilano4858 your a fucking crank get a life

[@d.e.b.b5788]

@@dominickmilano4858 You're such a sad person that you have to focus your hate for yourself on others. It's well known that homophobia stems from the intense inner fear that the hater feels for himself, because he recognizes some homosexual feelings as his own, and cannot accept it. Maybe you're gay, too, Dominick, and just can't face it.

[@ronwheeler7788]

On my 21st birthday I was new in a big city no friends so I celebrated alone. Parked at the first bar I came to. Ordered up my first legal beer looked around the pact bar and noticed I'm the only straight guy in the place. It was all new to me how some folks live their lives but I never judge other folks actions that don't involve me. Long story short I'm still straight but I left knowing two of these guys were going to be close friends. That was 40 years ago and we still keep in touch. Me and my wife love and respect them both. Peace out brothers

[@kulmainer]

Thanks Rod, long time ago, but so perfect!

[@beckyoneal.2092]

Rod Stewart, tells and explains what a true friendship is all about and the love of a friend without judging them. Kudo's to you Sir Rod, today, tomorrow and forever. You are amazingly beautiful inside and out.

[@beckyoneal.2092]

Thank y'all so much. Sir Rod is truly an amazing person.

[@jmeyer4321]

Nearly 50 years later and this contribution remains another outstanding Rod Stewart work of art!

[@sophdog1678]

This is Rod's voice at his very best. Such timbre, and sung with such feeling.

[@darrelldoo4golf]

There are few songs that fill your chest until you can hardly breathe, but this is one of 'em. The story, interpretation and emotion are on another level. Even if you didn't know this was a true story before you watched the video, you'd have no doubt thereafter. One of half a dozen Rod songs that make up my top 💯 of all time. Absolute genius 👏

[@patrickrex6230]

It was hell growing up gay in the 70s I hope it’s easier now. This song gave me voice, understanding and hope. It still does

[@christinescarff4920]

I was at university in the early 70s but never came across a bloke who was gay. Was that just because blokes who didn’t seem interested in girls just had to pretend, or is there just more ‘ gayness ‘ around now ? This isn’t prejudice, but I’m really curious as my daughter seems to know quite a few gay blokes, and one in particular really messed her about before after ages and ages, announcing he was gay !! Yes, I fully sympathise, it must be dreadful feeling an outsider who has to hide who you really are, so you do really have my sympathy. My father, having suffered from religious bigotry from my mother’s dreadful catholic family after my mum’s death cos she had been the only one of 6 siblings not to marry a catholic, and all my cousins married catholics too, though, still being a churchgoing catholic, though a very liberal one, I most certainly did NOT marry a catholic, lived to see 3 members of our family decide they were gay. In view of the fact of the religious prejudice metered out to him, he really couldn’t cope with the fact that catholics in the family were then announcing they were gay , especially as by this point he was a very old man. If you don’t mind me asking, how old were you when you were certain you were gay and was any pressure put on you to definitely decide one way or the other ?

[@patrickrex6230]

@@christinescarff4920 there are no more gay people today than at any other time in history. I knew I was gay at about the same age you knew you were straight. We are born this way. You seem to blame the Catholic Church a lot Not entirely fair. Pope Francis said it best “who am I to judge”.

[@christinescarff4920]

@@patrickrex6230 Blimey, I replied to you about the Catholic Church and Pope Francis, but where has that reply gone now ? I seem to spend my time typing replies to people that just seem to disappear into a ‘ black hole ‘ somewhere !!!

[@christinescarff4920]

@@patrickrex6230 Patrick, Yes, I DO agree with you that Pop Francis is the most liberal and inclusive Pope we’ve had, so I’m glad we”re moving away from labelling people just by their sexuality !!! God, it must have been hard for you growing up ! Funnily enough, I really AM the other extreme, and especially now when there are so many mixed race blokes around , who are often just gorgeous, I really feel attracted to loads and loads of blokes !!!

[@DAVJULART]

@@christinescarff4920 oh we were very good at hiding it from others until we realised it wasn't worth the internalised pain of doing so. I came out at 25 and since then live openly gay in the hope no one has to repress themselves the way I did.

[@walterpewen7903]

The song was released on the airwaves in the United States right at a crucial time for what was in fact the 70's gay rights movement. I was a part of that movement in Los Angeles where people were definitely ready for it. I was 18 and also a big rock fan. Stewart was one the first to even get near the topic. People were amazed, even in LA.

[@debbief9861]

There were a lot of nasty and less enlightened views in the 70s, and the fact that Rod made this record and put out a positive message is enormous credit to him.

[@johnmcaree7298]

The message was all the more powerful that it came from Rod, a serial sh*gger of beautiful women, and (on the surface) as unlikely an advocate of gay rights as you could find.

[@Splitshot1]

A ground breaking song...A subject never discussed back in 1976.

[@myarichardson1920]

This song is one of the best songs i've ever heard and 40 years on it's still relevant.My dad first played me this song on my 16th Birthday and it's stayed with me. You can see the grief in his face as he sings and that's what songs should be. The singer making the listen hang onto and feel every single word.

[@KayBeeGlass]

Have you lost someone you loved or cared for? EMPATHY. It's a powerful thing.

[@dianamckibben8441]

He's one of those rare entertainers whose every move screams charming. A gesture as simple as holding his jacket above his head is somehow irresistible. So glad to be able to watch this again and again and again.

[@loralieisa]

. Rod Charming Irresistable Stewart is his full name.

[@sgtpppr]

Right!? The jacket over his head. Who does that?

[@halojames]

A master class of how to sing and tell a story. Outstanding. ♥

[@rodhall1454]

As a young Gay man in the 70s this song helped me through one of the darkest periods of my life. It taught me that not ALL heterosexuals were hateful.

[@stonecaf]

lol no, who you are is more important than what you are.

[@john9550]

The only hate a person will encounter in life is the hate someone has for themselves steered outward. Live your life sir and enjoy every breath, us straight guys are secretly a bit jealous... dont tell anybody lol

[@MareShoop]

@@john9550 your first sentence puts the "why of hate" perfectly, thank you.

[@jippy33]

Did you go out late?

[@jefffroggatt184]

No we're not Rod. Power to you brother.

[@loiscandler814]

What a beautiful, special song by such an exceptional singer! No one could have done it better & the hauntingly sweet whistling is beautiful! 🥰

[@ericboncuk5303]

This is from one of the first albums I ever bought. “Youth’s a mask and it don’t last, live it hard and live it fast” Now in my mid 60’s that line resonates.

[@beachboy13600]

yawn

[@keithewright]

@@beachboy13600 I pity you. If music means something to someone, leave them to enjoy it and express it however they wish. Then, you probably didn't get any message from this meaningful song

[@beachboy13600]

@@keithewright the message I got was never to pick money up in a gay club as I might get my hairy hole made air tight. Id probably bend down for a fiver though. We all have our price, but then I do wear carbon fibre underwear, so you got no chance

[@keithewright]

@@beachboy13600 That is because you are a crap human being with low intelligence, zero empathy and no soul. But you do you, takes all sorts to make a world.

[@WilhelminaBrown-sd8is]

I went to 53rd & 3rd just to see, loved Rod Stewart since the early 70’s. He is a stunner to this day. Thanks Rod this has gotta be one of your best. Love ya xx

[@joerusso4417]

this song and " i was only joking " are my 2 favorite rod stewart songs.

[@davefitzgerald5334]

He was a brave man to sing a song like that .

[@ronaldthomas2598]

Being a brotha i didn't care who know that i love Rod and Elton I'm straight as hell i know great music

[@gautierh2486]

Rod Stewart is very much straight I believe

[@nicholerichards3924]

YASSSSSS OK

[@ZeroMalarki]

@@gautierh2486 Yeah but he's not normally seen as the music choice of straight men. Not to mention what this song is about.

[@glenshea1967]

Ronald Thomas. Same here mate.Love Rod Stewart and straight.

[@ronaldthomas2598]

@@ZeroMalarki love rod music since the 70

[@monadotson741]

Rod Stuart was hands down an amazing singer song writer. Way ahead of his time.Love you man❤

[@orangeturtle2737]

🥰 got me through highschool bullying I knew I’d grow up to be a lesbian and rods song helped me understand not all people were cruel because Rod cared. Sounds silly really but rods kindness comforted me. Really this song is anti bullying ❤

[@timwalker2458]

Loved it when it was first released and still love it now. Poor old Georgie, he didn't deserve to die.

[@izzycoco3931]

Still have nightmares about that boy. Georgie come home.....😢

[@Derwentcub]

A unique voice from a unique talent. With the standards of recent "music", thank goodness we still have songs like this to look back on, and yes it was courageous at the time. It broke new ground and helped to breach the barriers of bigotry and hatred towards gay and bi people. Thank you Rod.. Always and forever a shining star!

[@mrblueun1080]

@Rod Stewart is this for real?

[@scottorummalleus6917]

Always said that this was Rod's finest hour

[@brianhughes898]

Stealing Beatles songs? He should of changed it a bit more to disguise it, like the Beatles did lol

[@alanstrom2221]

I prefer STONE COLD SOBER as one of Rod's finest moments or HOT LEGS, that's when you can call him ROCKIN' ROD. So many of his songs aren't Rock songs. LOL!!!!!!!

[@patrickfleming3658]

Yes

[@spello8191]

This track is a rock classic. Beautifully written, produced and finally but not least compassion

[@sloucha1]

My dad turned me on to Rod Stewart back in late 70s early 80s this has to be my all time favourite it still brings a tear to my eyes thanks dad 😇😇

[@MaineiacleWis]

40 years ago I met a friend named George who was about 60 and had come out to his wife and daughters. They disowned him. Never met a better person in my life. Last I knew he had gone to San Diego with his partner who was dying from Aids.. I often listen to this song thinking about him. He WAS this Georgie without the sad ending. No party WAS EVER COMPLETE without George.

[@MacBaerFFM]

Not that much into Rod's music, but this song and statement has given him a place in my heart forever. Thank you, Rod Stewart!

[@claudettedalton3281]

yeh i dont like him either but love his music........go figure!

[@leesmith7160]

Michael Grom have always loved rod. His ballads just take the time to listen

[@frankfeeney5977]

Incredible song and performance

[@rockinresurrection6542]

@@dominickmilano4858 Oh shut the fuck up

[@rockinresurrection6542]

@@dominickmilano4858 Ever imagined how disgusted some gay men are when they hear about hetero sex?

[@prowelsh56]

Everytime I listen and watch the video: Rod loves women! He adores women! and yet here he sing about a gay mate - kindest he ever knew. I love the sensitivity of the video and Rod's movements..way he uses his body to convey personality...it is not mockery - of his gay mate. That such a beautiful thing to see and this genuine love moves me to tears...masterful on so many levels.

[@azapro911]

Rod's best song, the lyrical content is as real as it gets.

[@robwilliams7695]

Rod Stewart at his absolute finest, my favourite song of his 🎶🎵👍

[@Bob-el3iw]

Classic song, Rod takes me back to my childhood with his unique voice.

[@royhay5741]

What an absolute masterpiece this song is

[@robertrodgers575]

An amazing song about the murder of one of Rods real friends. He didn’t perform this song live for many years because it was too emotional for him. George was actually murdered in the summer of 74 but the song says 75 due to Rod not being able to find the words to rhyme with 74 🙏❤️

[@briandevine98]

My favorite song he sang it at my first ever Rod concert In Dublin

[@normafoster1959]

Thanks for that. Makes sense. Thank you for sharing intelligence xxx

[@spello8191]

The passion boils over with empathy I feel

[@normafoster1959]

@@spello8191 this song recalls the Hurricane, in feel, if not in exact lyrics. Rod was always an underrated genius. Way cooler than everyone, including Mick, in my view. Yikes. I said it.

[@mradrianmarkpenn6370]

interesting additional comments- didnt know for years that this song was based on a true story. Its moving stuff, it has to be said.. !!

[@bacchuslax7967]

Props for Rod to have the rocks to do this song when he did. Part of being a legend and an icon.

[@JMD1965]

I remember when this song came out and some where saying this was him 'coming out' ... But as someone who had friends living within the closet and out it touched me as a song of true friendship. Now decades later, some of those friends have passed on and this tune has become a memory pull to people I miss so much.

[@JCesar-xf2bk]

This is such a beautiful song, yet remains forgotten by many in Rod's vault of numerous hits. It was actually banned by the BBC when released in 1976. He's going on tour with Culture Club on June 23rd in the UK. I hope he sings it with Boy George considering the very special connection George has with the song. When he was a teenager, his mother bought the single, wrapped it in a brown paper bag and put it in his socks drawer. It was her way of saying: ''I know who you are, I love you all the same''. If only she were alive to see them perform the song together on stage... She passed away a few weeks ago.

[@missksa12]

They did the duet,its awesome,just hard to hear the lyrics as clearly as this version.

[@JCesar-xf2bk]

@@missksa12 Yes, they did! And yes, it was hard to hear the lyrics live. But intention is what counts, that's what they say! 🙂

[@kalania14]

Beautiful story connected to a beautiful song. All we need is love for one another! Not politics and agendas.

[@JCesar-xf2bk]

@@kalania14 Absolutely true! They performed it live. It was amazing, yet they hadn't even rehearsed it.

[@whitedsepuchre1326]

Yea they did it and it sounded bent.

[@24nov67]

one of his greatest songs and one of the best songs of the seventies. sounds just as good today as it did in 76.

[@lemurianchick]

I never heard it before and I am 56 and familiar with Rod's music.

[@williamgetty1373]

So sad but songs can heal. Rod poured out his heart for us. This song still makes me feel all these years later.

[@frederickmcdonald6636]

a beautiful sad song that encompasses the absolute in human spirit by just making a song about his friend. Way to go Rod for reminding us that love exists in many different ways in our world. You are a gift to this world....

[@debbiebishop6869]

Tells exactly how much his friendship meant, because it could've ruin him, but after that tragedy happen Rod knew it had to be said!💜💜💜

[@Bbmangood]

I think this is probably one of the most powerful songs that Rod Stewart ever sang

[@davidmiller4594]

This song is modern poetry. Absolutely *Shameful* it was banned by the BBC

[@fredneedle123]

And then there was Jim. Jimmy savage.

[@richardplume3212]

Disgusting hoo th fuk r they

[@richardplume3212]

Totaly agree segrigation is disintergration peace

[@margaretlynch4767]

most of the bbc was filled to overflowing with homosexuals and the fuckin peadophiles, so, hypocrisy was the order of the day. Check lyrics of 'hip hop' songs they play today.

[@anthonywalsh7613]

I didn’t know that, but it doesn’t shock me. I’ve listened to this song over the years. Always makes me feel sad