He wears it well!
Singer Rod Stewart scored a very coveted accessory at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday when he was knighted by Prince William.
The Grammy winner, who was awarded the honor by Queen Elizabeth in a list made public on her official 90th birthday weekend in June, ditched the ceremony’s traditional tailcoat and top hot for tartan trousers and a jacket with scarlet cuffs — the colorful stage wear that has been his signature for more than 50 years in showbiz.
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Stewart, 71, was recognized for his music career as well as his contributions to charity. He’s a regular supporter of Prince Charles‘s Prince’s Trust — a foundation that aids disadvantaged youth.
The legendary singer arrived at the palace with his wife Penny Lancaster and their sons, Aiden and Alastair (left).
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At the ceremony, he was introduced in the Ballroom at Buckingham Palace as Sir Roderick Stewart, for services to music and to charity.
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Stewart took a few steps forward from the side, made a simple bow of the head and then went down on his right knee as William knighted him with a sword first to his left and then to his right shoulder.
When Rod got up, 6-foot 3-inch William towered over him (he stood on a raised platform making their height difference even greater) and placed the ribboned-medal around his neck.
The two had a jovial chat, with smiles from both.
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The father of eight — whose greatest hits include “You Wear It Well,” “Maggie May,” “Forever Young” and “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” — previously told concert-goers he had received a text from fellow knight and friend Sir Elton John when the news from the palace was announced June.
“It said, ‘Congratulations darling,’ ” Stewart revealed. ” ‘Who would have thought a couple of old tarts from North London would be knighted?’ “
