This week’s Rod Art
As it’s nearly Christmas it must be time to show this fabulous smudge painting again by Ray Guselli who has contributed many times to SMILER
The painting is Rod’s house Durrington House at Christmas, outside you will spot the SMILER team singing carols to Sir Rod ..he never did open the door!
Penny also gave us a close up of the front door
Sounds of the 70’s
On Saturday 11 Jan 2025 at 01:00 BBC Radio 2 will air Rod Stewart at the BBC
Sounds of the 70s with Bob Harris
Sir Roderick David Stewart CBE is one of our greatest singer songwriters, who has broken records on both sides of the Atlantic and amassed sales of over 100 million. In celebration of his 80th birthday, Rod’s story is told in interviews on BBC radio. As you will hear, Rod is never afraid to comment on his varied past and laugh at himself. He is always great company.
In the company of Johnnie Walker, Janice Long, Kate Thornton and Matt Everett, Rod discusses the early part of his career and the fun filled antics of The Faces, creating songs in the pub, recording at Muscle Shoals in the studios his idols used, worldwide stardom, his relationship with Britt Ekland, the Press and some famous Hollywood neighbours and most importantly his classic releases such as Maggie May, Handbags & Gladrags, Sailing, I Don’t Want To Talk About, The First Cut Is The Deepest, Downtown Train and Mandolin Wind.
Railway Modeller
Hot on the heels of Rod’s December feature in the US publication Model Railroader comes this gem..Rod has given an exclusive interview to Britain’s #1 model railway magazine, Railway Modeller, in the January issue Rod showcases his breath-taking HO scale model railway layout. The intricate “Grand Street & Three Rivers Railroad” is inspired by the bustling cityscapes and industrial grandeur of 1940s America, and has taken over three decades for the singer to craft.
Sir Rod’s passion for model railways is brought to life in this expansive, meticulously detailed layout that spans 27 feet by 62 feet. Boasting towering skyscrapers, a 900-foot mainline, bustling docks and intricate urban scenes, it is both a technical marvel and an artistic masterpiece. The January issue provides readers with unparalleled access to the layout’s new home in the UK and a candid interview with the rock icon himself.
Having relocated the layout from his Los Angeles residence to his English country estate, Sir Rod reveals the immense work involved in rebuilding and enhancing the setup: “I’m not happy with the lights – we’ve really got to work on that. “We’re going to add some uplights on some of the buildings and skyscrapers. Then we’re going to have thunder and lightning, everything but rain put in for effects!” he says with excitement. New features include advanced lighting for day-to-night transitions, sound effects, and a computer-controlled automation system for seamless train operations.
Railway Modeller Editor, Craig Tiley, reflects on the layout’s impact: “Sir Rod’s dedication and eye for detail elevate this project beyond a simple hobby. It’s a world-class exhibit, blending artistry and technology.”
Sir Rod’s passion for the craft clearly shines through in every detail. He emphasizes the joy of creating the scenery himself, stating, “Nearly all the buildings are either scratch-built or adapted from kits. Nothing is recognizable—everything is unique.” And the project isn’t complete: extensions to the layout include docks with large-scale ships, mountainous regions, and a dedicated homage to legendary model railway artist George Sellios, plus a significant extension of railway track from the world-leading British manufacturer, PECO.
Sir Rod has also just announced that we he will be performing at Glastonbury 2025 in the Legends slot, and whilst his life as a global music star is hectic, he finds great solace in model-making, spending up to five hours a day in his workshop. He states: “When I walk into my workshop, it’s like entering the gates of heaven.”
His love for the hobby extends beyond personal enjoyment and Sir Rod hopes to inspire future generations of model railway enthusiasts with what he has done, and inspire others to follow in his footsteps: “It’s the greatest hobby in the world,” he declares.
In the January 2025 issue, Railway Modeller celebrates this extraordinary achievement, and its 75th anniversary year of publishing with exclusive photos, behind-the-scenes insights, and a deeper look into Sir Rod’s creative process. The feature offers inspiration for both railway enthusiasts and those who appreciate the power of passion-driven projects. The magazine’s sister publication, Continental Modeller will also feature Sir Rod and his layout, along with other imagery, in its forthcoming January issue on sale from December 17th.
Railway Modeller Magazine has been the UK’s premier resource for railway enthusiasts since 1949, offering in-depth features, expert tips, and inspiring layouts for all levels of hobbyists.
Railway Modeller January 2025 – On shelves from 12th December 2024
Stockport Music Story
It was great to see some SMILER members out on Sunday as we braved the cold weather and helped supported Manor Lounge Plaque Unveiling and The Stockport Music Story
Pam Howes finally managed to get a plaque erected after many years campaigning next to the entrance of the legenday Stockport club The Manor Lounge
In a short speach before the unveiling Pam talked of the amazing list of acts who played the club in the early sixties including The Small Faces and Rod who had donaited some signed photos that were auctioned to raise funds for the plaque.
After the unveiling we were treated to a great 60’s set by The Tall Faces in the Blossoms the venue that indi pop band Blossoms took their name.
After seeing the pictures from the day Kenney Jones contacted SMILER to say ‘I would like to say a massive thank you and well done to Pam and all of the organisers for honouring the memory of the Small Faces with this Blue Plaque at The Manor Lounge. I know how much hard work went into this and I am so appreciative. Thank you all once again’.
Kenney
Christmas TV Times
Well here are the bits you need to know..
That’s TV will be showing : The Kenny Everett New Year Show 200 AM to 2:45 AM on Monday 16 December
First shown in 1978 Season 1 Episode 9 With Rod and Leo Sayer. The remarkable New Year comedy show from Thames Television.
On Saturday Saturday 21 December Sky Arts will be showing Guy Garvey: From the Vaults, The Elbow front man looks back at 1975, with appearances on the show Supersonic by Rod , Status Quo, Roxy Music and ELO, as well as clips of Ace and Dr Feelgood 1:20 AM to 2:20 AM
You can also catch Rod Stewart – It Had to Be You TV Special from 2002 this week on Google Play
And Apple TV are showing the 2011 The Story of Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart’s incredible career spans 5 decades and encompasses a string of number one albums and hit singles. With over 100 million records sold worldwide, Stewart ranks among the best selling artists of all time and with good reason. From rock to pop and heartfelt soul, Stewart is a rare genre-spanning artist, appealing to a massive global audience, with more fans today than ever before. His trademark gravely voice, instantly recognizable the world over has helped define and propel him from truly humble beginnings to worldwide superstardom. From his early days with the band Faces to the launch of his solo career and beyond Rod Stewart has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry and has become a pop legend in his own right. This is his remarkable story. Featuring music performance (both live and from pop video footage) from some of his best known songs, this inspiring tale is a must have for any Rod Stewart fan.
Don’t forget the Wolfie’s
You still have until 20th December to order your Wolfie’s for Christmas
Loose Women
Penny was on the panel of Thursday’s Loose Women show and guest Michelle McManus talked about her love of Rod and Celtic
Penny said: “You sang with my husband, I believe. Are you a Celtic fan?”
Michelle answered: “I am indeed. I do a lot with the ladies team now, as well. I was so fortunate, your husband is one of my icons, but I’m sure everyone tells you that.
“We sang at the Lisbon Lions’ 50th anniversary at the Hydro, it was myself, Eddi Reader and Rod Stewart.
“I was this close to him but I didn’t want to be creepy so I kept my distance.”
Watch your post
Keep watching your Christmas and New year post as SMILER issue 104 is on it’s way to arrive in time for Rod’s 80th Birthday..And don’t worry everything that was sent in to be passed on to Rod will be.
The cover features a great shot from Wolfie’s First birthday party and you can see more un seen shots inside!
And Finally..
Lets wrap up this week with Penney’s lovely Christmas card
And we will see you next week, when it really will be nearly Christmas…