Here are 5 amazing things about Sir Rod Stewart, the 78-year-old British rock singer, during his visit to Montreal on Thursday.

British pop idol Sir Rod Stewart, 78, will visit fans in Montreal on Thursday at the Bell Center as part of his North American tour.

But the old rock singer had some problems with his vocal cords last Saturday, forcing him to cancel his scheduled concert in Saskatoon. Montrealers should now cross their fingers and hope he makes a full recovery from his Thursday performance.

To add to the suspense, here are five facts you may not know about the famous singer.

1. He played in several bands during the 1960s

Before achieving success as a soloist, Rod Stewart sang in almost ephemeral formations of the English scene such as The Raiders, The Dimensions or Steampacket. He also accompanied British bluesman Long John Baldry on harmonica. He even joined talented guitarist Jeff Beck’s band in 1967 as a vocalist.

In 1969, he would also sing for the “Faces” line-up of which we find Ron Wood, the future guitarist of the Rolling Stones. In the same year, he released his first solo album. He held both roles simultaneously – solo singer and vocalist – until the group broke up in 1975.

2. He broke several album sales records

All in all, Rod Stewart has sold around 120 million albums worldwide. If we add with singles Sold, the figure reaches 250 million. In particular, thanks to such huge hits as Lyrics May Maggie, Tonight’s nights (you’ll be fine), hot legs, passion, young Turks or Baby Jane.

It remains the group’s best-selling album Blondes enjoy it more Published in 1978, in which we find his victory da ya think i’m sexy?

3. He broke the record for attendance at an outdoor concert in Brazil

On December 31, 1994, 3.5 million spectators (some sources say more than 4 million) gathered to hear Rod Stewart perform on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. the Guinness Book of Records The evening has been described as the largest free concert in history.

4. Throughout his career, he has scored some notable duets

Whether it’s Tina Turner, Stevie Nicks, Cher, Dolly Parton, Diana Ross or Elton John, Rod Stewart has always known how to surround himself when it’s time to sing together. Whether on the boards or in the studio. The eclectic list of artists he has performed with ranges from Mary J Blige to Cee Lo Green and his sister Mary, 94, who joined him onstage on July 10 for a concert in Edinburgh.

5. He was knighted in 2016 by Prince William

This badge of honor from the British monarchy meant he could now be called “Mr.” Rod Stewart. He shares this title with other English pop stars such as Tom Jones, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Elton John.