Rod Stewart Disses ‘Ginger’ Ed Sheeran, Claims He Doesn’t Know Any of His Songs

Rod Stewart had some surprisingly harsh words for Ed Sheeran during an interview with The Times U.K. (via People). Stewart claimed he wasn’t familiar with any of the popular artist’s songs, but betrayed he was at least familiar with Sheeran’s hair color.

Stewart was asked by The Times whether he believes musicians are still producing memorable tracks today, to which the “Hot Legs” singer responded, “I’m sure they are.” He then began to search for the name of a British artist of whom he’s a fan.

"I like whatshisname," Stewart fumbled. "Oh fucking great, Rod. Well done. He’s British, really talented and his songs will be around." When the outlet threw out Sheeran’s name, Stewart snapped back: "No, not Ed, I don’t know any of his songs. Old ginger bollocks. Jesus.”

After Stewart began singing part of a tune, the interviewer identified his preferred artist as George Ezra. Stewart apparently likes Ezra’s 2018 track “Shotgun,” at least enough to sing its chorus during the interview.

"I think he writes really tremendous songs," Stewart said of Ezra. "He’ll be around for quite a while."

Stewart then went on to drag younger musicians in general, distancing his generation from current artists. The “Maggie May” crooner believes that most people now enter the industry for reasons other than love of the game.

“The people I came up with—the Stones, Elton—we all came into it because we loved the music," he explained. “Money and fame didn’t factor—it was a burning ambition to sing. That may have changed,” Stewart continued. “Now it’s more, ‘Ooh, let’s have a go at music. I don’t even have to play well. Maybe I’ll get rich.’ Fame comes before everything. All kids want is fame."