Ronnie Wood, the legendary guitarist of The Rolling Stones and Faces, remains a vibrant force in British culture. At 78, he continues to capture headlines, not just for his enduring musical legacy but also for his recent show-stopping reunion with Sir Rod Stewart at Glastonbury 2025. This summer, Wood’s name has surged in UK searches, fuelled by his electrifying stage presence, his acclaimed art, and his remarkable personal journey.

A Glastonbury Reunion for the Ages

On Sunday, 29 June 2025, Glastonbury’s iconic Pyramid Stage became the setting for a much-anticipated reunion. Sir Rod Stewart, now 80, took the coveted “legends” slot and surprised the crowd by bringing out Ronnie Wood, his old Faces bandmate, for their first public performance together since the 2020 BRIT Awards. The pair launched into the 1971 classic “Stay With Me,” instantly transporting the audience back to the golden era of British rock.

The set was a celebration of British music, with Stewart powering through hits like “Maggie May” and “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” and welcoming other stars such as Mick Hucknall of Simply Red and Scottish singer Lulu. Yet, it was Wood’s appearance that drew the loudest cheers, a testament to his enduring popularity and the affection the UK public holds for him.

After the show, Wood took to Instagram, sharing behind-the-scenes clips and expressing his joy: “It was wonderful to be back on the Pyramid Stage with my good mates Rod, Lulu and Mick Hucknall! Had a real good time,” he wrote, delighting fans and earning praise for his performance.

Faces: New Music on the Horizon?

The Glastonbury reunion has reignited interest in Faces, the seminal band Wood and Stewart formed in 1969. Drummer Kenney Jones recently hinted that Faces are working on their first new album in five decades, with around 11 tracks already recorded in London. While a release date is yet to be confirmed, the prospect of new material has fans eagerly awaiting what could be a historic return for the band.

Earlier this year, Wood and Stewart celebrated Stewart’s 80th birthday together, sharing their enduring friendship with fans online. Their camaraderie, both on and off stage, remains a source of fascination and nostalgia for British music lovers.

Ronnie Wood: The Artist Behind the Guitar

While Wood is best known for his guitar work, his reputation as a visual artist has grown steadily. Trained at Ealing Art College, Wood’s passion for painting predates his musical fame. His style is bold, expressive, and unmistakably shaped by decades at the heart of rock history. He paints portraits of fellow legends, scenes from life on the road, and abstract works that pulse with energy.

To mark his Glastonbury appearance, Wood released three new artworks through his online store, further cementing his status as a serious artist. His pieces have been exhibited in respected galleries worldwide, and collectors are increasingly drawn to his work, which bridges the worlds of fine art and rock nostalgia.

The market for celebrity art is booming, and Wood’s paintings are seen as both cultural artefacts and potential investments. Experts advise, however, that while demand is high, buyers should focus on limited editions and popular subjects for the best long-term value.

Triumph Over Adversity: Health and Recovery

Wood’s journey has not been without challenges. In recent years, he has faced and overcome two cancer diagnoses—lung cancer in 2017 and small-cell cancer during the COVID-19 lockdown. He credits his recovery to a positive outlook and a commitment to self-care, lessons he shares openly with fans and in interviews.

His art has become a channel for these experiences. One of his notable works, “Affirmation I,” was created in response to a counsellor’s request during rehab and embodies his mantra: “When I take care of myself, I can achieve anything”. Wood has used his art to raise money for addiction recovery charities, further demonstrating his commitment to giving back.

The Ultimate Rock n Roll Survivor

Ronnie Wood’s life reads like a history of British rock. He has played with nearly every major figure in the genre, survived the excesses of fame, and emerged as a symbol of resilience. His wit and humour, as described by Stewart, remain unchanged since their Faces days, and his ability to connect with audiences is as strong as ever.

Despite brushes with addiction and health scares, Wood’s “cut-off switch” and sense of self-preservation have kept him going when many of his peers have not. Today, he balances music, art, and family life, showing no signs of slowing down.

Looking Ahead

As the UK celebrates another landmark, Glastonbury, Ronnie Wood stands out not just as a survivor but as a thriving artist and performer. Whether he’s on stage with Rod Stewart, unveiling new artwork, or sharing his story of recovery, Wood continues to inspire. For British audiences, he remains the embodiment of rock’n’roll spirit—restless, creative, and eternally cool.

The Rolling Stones: Still Setting the Pace

Wood’s commitments extend beyond Faces. He remains an integral member of The Rolling Stones, who are currently back in the studio working on their 25th album at Metropolis Studios in West London. This follows the chart-topping success of their 2023 release, Hackney Diamonds, which reaffirmed the Stones’ status as rock royalty.

The band’s decision to focus on recording comes after the cancellation of their planned 2025 European tour due to scheduling complications. For fans disappointed by the missed live dates, the promise of new music offers a silver lining and keeps anticipation high for what the Stones will deliver next.

Conclusion:

Ronnie Wood’s enduring presence in British music and culture is a testament to his remarkable talent, resilience, and versatility. From his electrifying performances with The Rolling Stones and Faces to his celebrated work as a visual artist, Wood continues to captivate audiences across generations. His recent reunion with Rod Stewart at Glastonbury 2025 not only reignited fond memories but also underscored his ongoing influence and relevance in the UK’s cultural landscape.

Despite personal health challenges, Wood’s positive outlook and creative drive have kept him at the forefront of both music and art. As he embraces new projects and collaborations, Ronnie Wood stands as a true icon—embodying the spirit of British rock and inspiring fans with his unwavering passion and artistry.

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