In November 2017, the heart of London’s Piccadilly Circus witnessed an unforgettable moment that perfectly captured the magic of music and spontaneity. As seasoned street performer Henry Facey was wrapping up his set with the beloved classic “Handbags and Gladrags” — a song made famous by Rod Stewart — something truly extraordinary happened. Out of the bustling crowd, the rock legend himself appeared and joined Facey for an impromptu duet that left onlookers speechless.
Dressed in a stylish tartan coat reminiscent of his early busking days, Rod Stewart radiated both warmth and nostalgia as he stepped up to the microphone. The moment felt almost surreal — one of the world’s most iconic rock stars casually strolling into a cold London evening to sing alongside a street performer. What began as an ordinary street show suddenly became a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone lucky enough to witness it.
Despite the freezing weather, the energy in the square was electric. The crowd gathered tightly around, phones raised, as Stewart’s unmistakable raspy voice joined Henry’s in harmony. Henry, clearly stunned but overjoyed, handed the mic over without hesitation, grinning as the two delivered a soulful, heartfelt rendition of the song. It was pure, unscripted joy — the kind of spontaneous musical connection that reminds us why live music is so powerful.
This chance encounter not only showcased Rod Stewart’s humility and deep connection to his roots but also celebrated the unifying spirit of music — how it can bridge generations, break barriers, and create unforgettable shared moments out of thin air.
For those who wish to relive this incredible event, the entire scene was captured on video and can be viewed below:
It was an extraordinary, heartwarming moment — Rod Stewart casually stepping out of the crowd to sing with a busker, turning an ordinary London night into a legendary jam session that no one present will ever forget.