How Handbags And Gladrags By Rod Stewart Became One Of His Best Early Covers

March 21, 2025

Rod Stewart, a name that echoes through the halls of rock history, wasn’t always the iconic figure he is today. In the late 1960s, he was just a young musician trying to find his voice in a bustling world of music. He had faced countless rejections, and frustrations weighed heavily on his shoulders. He was tirelessly working to make a mark in the industry, but nothing seemed to stick. Little did he know, one song would change everything for him.

“Handbags and Gladrags,” originally written by Mike D’Abo and released by the band Manfred Mann, was a heartfelt ballad that resonated with many. Unfortunately, it didn’t achieve the success it deserved at first. But when Rod picked it up in 1969, he infused it with his raw, soulful voice and a passionate spirit. For Rod, this was more than just a cover; it was an opportunity to express his own experiences and emotions, channeling his frustrations about life into the music. As he sang about the empty promises of materialism, he connected deeply with listeners who felt lost in a world that often judged them by their possessions.

The day Rod recorded “Handbags and Gladrags” was a turning point. The studio was filled with an electric energy as he poured his heart into every note. With every strum of the guitar and swell of the instruments, it felt as though he was transforming his pain into something beautiful. When it was released, the song didn’t just capture the ears of music lovers; it struck a chord in their hearts. Rod’s rendition elevated the song from an overlooked gem to a classic, showcasing his unique ability to connect deeply through his art.

As the song climbed the charts, Rod’s career began to take off. The recognition he received from “Handbags and Gladrags” was like a lifeline thrown to someone struggling to stay afloat. Opportunities started pouring in, and soon Rod Stewart was touring and performing for audiences who adored him. It was as if he had finally stepped into the light after years of shadows. The song became an anthem for anyone who had ever felt unseen or unappreciated, making Rod not just a singer, but a voice for the voiceless.

But beyond the fame and success, “Handbags and Gladrags” served as a reminder to Rod of why he started making music in the first place. It taught him that authenticity mattered more than perfection. Through this experience, he learned that every struggle and every moment of doubt could lead to something extraordinary if one could just hold on to their passion and resilience. Rod Stewart became not just a star but an inspiration to many young artists, showing them that sometimes, the greatest triumphs arise from the toughest battles.

Years later, as Rod reflects on that time in his life, he realizes it was about more than just a song; it was about hope and perseverance. “Handbags and Gladrags” stands as one of his best early covers, a powerful reminder that with every note sung and every word expressed, he could touch lives and share his truth with the world. And though the road ahead was still long and winding, the music would always guide him forward, shining brighter than any handbag or rag ever could.