When people think of folk music as a genre, there are certain entertainers that come to mind: Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell and Pete Seeger to name a few. But the truth is, folk’s influence was shaped far beyond these recognizable pillars. Though perhaps lesser known, folk artist Al Stewart is not without his accolades.
Most known for his ’70s hits “Year of the Cat” and “Time Passages,” both of which spent time in the top ten of Billboard’s Hot 100, the beloved singer and songwriter’s long-standing love of music has produced 19 studio albums and one live album. Now, the 80-year-old talent is making the rounds on his 2025 farewell tour.
While the artist’s signature high notes are a little lower, fans were still emotional at the thought of him being in the midst of his last shows ever.
“Such a talented musician! Incredible songwriting. Beautiful arrangements! What a legacy he leaves,” wrote one nostalgic fan.
“Great memories,” noted another. “Loved listening to it on my am transistor radio [in] 1976.”
The singer, who is touring with his band The Empty Pockets, isn’t saying goodbye forever. In a statement he said:
“I can still see doing occasional shows here and there but as for the long tours in faraway places this is it.”
Related: ’70s Folk Rock Legend Neil Young Performs ‘Heartbreaking’ Song for First Time in 6 Years
Al Stewart’s Deep Love of Music, History and Fine Wine
The Scottish rock star’s impressive career dates back to the early ’60s, when he played a key figure in England’s folk scene revival and based many of his songs on real people from historical events. He has some impressive trivia in his back pocket as well. In addition to being on the inaugural bill of the now-famous Glastonbury Festival, he was roommates with the incomparable Paul Simon. His love of music is fueled by a passion for history—and also includes a love of fine wine.
“Someone said to me recently: ‘All of us older rockers in our late 50s have given up drugs and we’re drinking fine wine. But you did that 30 years ago!’” Stewart once recalled to Decanter. “Maybe I was the first yuppie. I just went straight to fine wine. It was my thing. In my mind, history, wine, literature and music all belong together.”
He’s impressively collected roughly 1,800 bottles, which he keeps in refrigerated cabinets in his Arizona home, where he now lives after spending 45 years in L.A.
This story was originally reported by Parade on Sep 10, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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