As we entered 2026, I was watching Jools Holland’s Hootenanny. It’s a show welcoming in the new year with musicians performing songs, mostly with the backing of the vast and hugely talented band Jools has pulled together.
Along with the younger performers like Olivia Dean (26) and Jessie J (37), there were quite a few near or beyond what you might call "normal retirement" age. There was Ronnie Wood putting in a reasonable shift at 78 and there was Lulu bringing the house down with an energetic performance at 77. Even the host, Jools, and his regular singer Ruby Wax, are both 67. They could be claiming their state pensions, but they were showing no signs of retirement.
Watching them reminded me of Rod Stewart – aged 80 – headlining at Glastonbury last year. And Bob Dylan is still on his never-ending world tour at 84. Even if you don't like their music, you have to admire their energy and achievement. I can’t imagine many people doing that in their 80s.
Loving country without losing the gospel
Christmas decorations are now up everywhere. For some people, this is a welcome relief from the ongoing proliferation of the …