Rod Stewart hits out at rivals
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Stewart feels unfairly criticized for dating younger women
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LONDON, England (Reuters) -- Rocker Rod Stewart feels he has been unfairly criticized for dating a younger woman, especially when ex-Beatle Paul McCartney escaped censure despite taking a wife half his age.
Stewart, 58, told the British magazine Radio Times Tuesday the difference was that McCartney had a knighthood.
He also complained at being passed over for a Grammy Award in favor of British rival Sting, calling him "Mr. Serious who helps the Indians," and nicknamed singer Elton John "Sharon."
Stewart, whose partner is 32-year-old model Penny Lancaster, was speaking before next month's formal opening of London musical "Tonight's the Night," based on 22 of his chart-topping songs.
"What pisses me off is they never have a go at Paul McCartney for marrying a younger woman ... but they kill me because of Penny," he said.
McCartney, 61, is 26 years older than his wife, Heather Mills, the same age difference as between Stewart and Lancaster.
"Perhaps it's because he's got a knighthood," Stewart added. "I don't know why I haven't got any honor. I do my bit for charity."
Stewart, riding high in the album charts, complained he had been passed over for the Grammy Awards.
"It's astounding I've never won one," he said. "They tend not to give it to the British unless you're Sting. The sun shines out of his arse -- a pure jazz musician, Mr. Serious who helps the Indians."
Elton John, another singer with a knighthood, also earned Stewart's disapproval for not inviting him to his parties. Dubbing him "Sharon," Stewart took a swipe at John's appearance and weight.
"My hair is nice and real and looks it, and hers doesn't. No, I take that back. He looks good at the moment, but he could lose a bit of timber," he said.
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