The Story Behind This Old Heart Of Mine By Rod Stewart And His Love For Motown

March 20, 2025

Rod Stewart stood in the dim light of the studio, a mix of excitement and nervousness swirling in his chest. It was 2000, and he was about to record “This Old Heart of Mine,” a song that brought back memories of his childhood. Growing up in the working-class neighborhoods of London, Rod was surrounded by the soulful sounds of Motown music. The vibrant melodies and heartfelt lyrics spoke to him, wrapping around his heart like a warm blanket on a cold night. Little did he know, this song would connect him to his roots and ignite a new flame in his already remarkable career.

As a young boy, Rod would sneak into his older sister’s room, captivated by her record collection. The smooth voices of The Temptations, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye poured from the speakers, filling the small space with dreamy harmonies. He felt a spark every time he heard those songs. They ignited his passion for music and made him realize that he could express his own feelings through singing. The energy of Motown was more than just entertainment for him; it was an escape and a guiding light in a sometimes bleak world. Those artists inspired him to reach for his dreams, and he was determined to bring that same spirit to his own music.

When Rod decided to cover “This Old Heart of Mine,” he knew he had to do it justice. Originally recorded by The Isley Brothers and later made famous by a version sung by Rod himself, the song was about love and heartache, themes that resonated deeply with him. Over the years, Rod had experienced highs and lows in his own relationships. Each time he faced heartbreak, he remembered the powerful songs of Motown that had once comforted him. As he sang the lyrics, he poured every ounce of his emotion into the performance, allowing his voice to express the feelings that lay deep within him. The result was a raw, passionate interpretation that would leave listeners breathless.

The recording of the song turned out to be a turning point not just for Rod, but for a new generation discovering the timeless magic of Motown. When it was released, “This Old Heart of Mine” became a hit, bringing Rod back into the spotlight and showing the world that his love for music hadn’t faded. It reminded him that no matter how many times he’d stumbled or how far he felt he had drifted from his roots, he could always return to the songs that had shaped him. The heart and soul of Motown lived within him, and he carried that legacy forward with every note he sang.

But the impact of this song went beyond just chart success; it reignited Rod’s passion for his craft. He began to explore more of the Motown catalog, infusing his concerts with classics that tugged at the hearts of his fans. Each time he performed, he felt uplifted, sharing not just his music but also the joy of the Motown spirit with his audience. As he looked out at the faces singing along, he realized the power of music to connect people, bridging generations and backgrounds through a shared love of rhythm and melody.

Through the years, Rod Stewart continued to remind us of the importance of passion and resilience. His journey revealed that even a legendary artist could find new inspiration in the songs of their youth. “This Old Heart of Mine” was not just a song; it was a testament to the enduring power of music, a reminder that no matter where life takes us, our hearts can always find their way home. And for Rod, that home was filled with the sweet sounds of Motown, forever a part of his identity and his story.