Here’s what Rod Stewart said after declining Saudi Arabia gig in protest over treatment of women, LGBTQ+ community (2024)

Music icon Sir Rod Stewart has turned down what could have been a substantial career opportunity, making a powerful statement against Saudi Arabia's repressive policies. In a recent Instagram post, the 78-year-old singer expressed gratitude for having the choice to decline a performance in Saudi Arabia, contrasting it with the limited choices faced by many citizens in the country, particularly women, the LGBTQ+ community, and the press.

Stewart's Stand for Justice

The legendary musician's Instagram message outlined his decision: "So many citizens there have extremely limited choices — women, the LGBTQ community, the press. I'd like my choice not to go… to shine a light on the injustices there and ignite positive change."

While the exact offer that Stewart turned down remains undisclosed at this time, Saudi Arabia is notorious for its lack of recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, with hom*osexual activity considered illegal and subject to life imprisonment.

Human Rights Watch Report

Human Rights Watch had earlier reported that, despite discussions of reforms for women in the nation, "authorities continue to implement a male guardianship system requiring women to obtain male guardian permission to get married, leave prison, or obtain some forms of sexual and reproductive healthcare."

In choosing to decline the gig, Sir Rod Stewart joins a growing number of Western pop stars who have performed in the Kingdom, including Bruno Mars, David Guetta, Mariah Carey, Black Eyed Peas, and Iggy Azalea, among others. Notably, Nicki Minaj withdrew from the Jeddah World Festival in Saudi Arabia in 2019, citing support for LGBTQ+ and women's rights. On the other hand, artists like Chris Brown, Janet Jackson, Future, and 50 Cent accepted invitations to perform in the country.

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A post shared by Sir Rod Stewart (@sirrodstewart)

A Strong Stand on Moral Grounds

In a statement provided to People magazine, a spokesperson for Stewart elaborated, "Sir Rod Stewart has once again turned down one of the most lucrative concert offers of his career to perform in Saudi Arabia. Sighting his 'moral compass in making the decision,' Stewart chose to refuse the offer over the kingdom’s long history of human rights abuses, including discrimination against women and LGBTQ+ people, and of silencing its critics."

Stewart's principled stance is not isolated; in 2022, he rejected a chance to earn over $1 million for a show in Qatar, another Gulf state with its own record of human rights and labor abuses, as well as discrimination against women and the LGBTQ community.

Crown Prince's Reforms

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has attempted to enhance the nation's global image through a series of reforms, including opening its first movie theaters and lifting the ban on women driving.

However, these reforms have not extended to ensuring a free and open press, as evidenced by the tragic 2018 murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. The Saudi government was accused of trying to cover up the crime by destroying evidence and denying involvement.

FAQs

How much is Rod Stewart's net worth?
In September 2023, the legendary British rock icon, Rod Stewart, holds a substantial net worth of $300 million. With a remarkable career spanning over six decades, he has firmly established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry, underscored by the remarkable worldwide album sales exceeding 120 million.

Why is Rod Stewart so popular?
Rod Stewart's vocal prowess earned him a place among Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Singers of All Time, and The New York Times lauded him as "arguably the finest male vocalist in the realm of rock, known for his impassioned, raspy, and soulful tenor, masterfully phrased with genuine musicality."