Reason to Believe

While scrolling through some Facebook posts today, I discovered that it is Rod Stewart's birthday.  Yes -- January 10, 1945.  That makes Mr. Stewart 68 years young ;) As cheesy as that may sound, he certainly does seem to have a young spirit and a true zest for life.  I hope he is having a wonderful celebration surrounded by friends and family.

Meanwhile, I had to pick a Rod Stewart song to honor the occasion.  I looked through a couple of titles, and I know that I've already posted about some of my favorites.  So, well, um -- I chose a tune he didn't write.  "Reason to Believe" was written by Tim Hardin in 1965, and Rod recorded it in 1971.  He then recorded it again in 1993 for MTV Unplugged.  I guess it didn't surprise me too much when I discovered that he hadn't written the song, because it's all about heartbreak.  I can't imagine Rod ever being heartbroken, but perhaps he was.  I think he recounted one woman who broke his heart before he proposed to her, but I lost track.  I should read his memoir.  Anyway, he does have some songs about heartbreak -- sort of.  I posted about "My Heart Can't Tell You No," which is more of an unrequited love tune.  Nevertheless, the video of "Reason to Believe" from MTV Unplugged was very touching and an excellent performance, so I thought I'd post it here.  He and Ron Wood have a couple of laughs beforehand, and it's all very relaxed.  I think this may have been one of the best recordings I've heard of his music.  On that note, Happy Birthday, Mr. Stewart -- and all the best wishes for many more!