Rod Stewart Criticizes Glastonbury's Scheduling: "I Wish They Wouldn't Call It The Tea Time Slot"

Michael

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Post on Jun 26, 2025

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Rod Stewart Slams Glastonbury's "Tea Time Slot": A Rock Legend's Scheduling Gripe

Sir Rod Stewart, the iconic rocker, has voiced his displeasure with Glastonbury Festival's scheduling, calling his designated performance time a "tea time slot" and expressing his wish for a later, more prominent position. This comment has sparked debate amongst music fans and industry professionals alike, raising questions about the festival's lineup strategy and the challenges faced by veteran artists in today's music landscape.

The legendary singer, known for his powerhouse vocals and energetic stage presence, performed at Glastonbury on Saturday, June 24th. While his set undoubtedly thrilled many fans, Stewart clearly feels his performance time – a late afternoon slot – didn't afford him the ideal audience reach. He stated, "I wish they wouldn't call it the tea time slot," highlighting his frustration at the perceived lack of primetime consideration.

The "Tea Time Slot" Controversy: A Scheduling Headache for Glastonbury?

Stewart's critique isn't just a personal gripe; it raises broader concerns about Glastonbury's scheduling choices. The festival is renowned for its diverse lineup, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. However, balancing the needs of established acts like Rod Stewart with the demands of attracting younger audiences and emerging artists presents a complex challenge. The "tea time slot" – typically an earlier evening time – often competes with other attractions and activities at the festival, potentially impacting attendance.

This isn't the first time a headliner has expressed dissatisfaction with their Glastonbury slot. Many artists have voiced opinions about the competition for audience attention, particularly given the festival's vast size and multiple stages running concurrently. This highlights the delicate balancing act festival organizers must undertake when constructing their schedules.

The Impact on Older Generations and Ticket Sales

Stewart's comments also touch upon a crucial aspect of festival-going: demographics. Older generations, who may be loyal fans of artists like Rod Stewart, might find it difficult to stay up late into the night. A "tea time slot," while convenient for some, might inadvertently discourage this demographic from attending, impacting overall ticket sales and the festival's inclusive ethos.

This isn't solely a Glastonbury issue. Many large-scale music festivals grapple with similar scheduling dilemmas, attempting to create a balanced program that appeals to diverse audiences while satisfying the needs of established and emerging artists.

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Future Glastonbury Lineups?

While it remains to be seen whether Glastonbury's scheduling strategy will change based on Stewart's feedback, his comments certainly ignite a valuable discussion. The festival’s organizers will likely consider the concerns raised, weighing the impact of scheduling choices on artist satisfaction, audience demographics, and overall festival success. Perhaps future lineups will see a more nuanced approach to scheduling, ensuring a better balance between established and emerging acts, and catering to a broader range of audience preferences.

Ultimately, Rod Stewart’s comments serve as a reminder that even legendary performers face the pressures of modern festival scheduling. It prompts us to consider the complexities behind creating a successful and inclusive music festival experience for all. What are your thoughts on Glastonbury's scheduling? Let us know in the comments below!