ROD Stewart and Blondie have enjoyed successful careers spanning several decades and last night they showed Belfast why their music is still going strong, writes Suzanne McGonagle. Music fans thronged into two different venues in the city to watch the popular performers take to the stage. Veteran crooner Rod Stewart - one of the biggest selling artists of all time - played to thousands at the Odyssey Arena.
The 68-year-old rocker, who recently scored his first number one album in 40 years, was back in the city after performing several sell-out shows here just three years ago. The singer/songwriter - who is known for the hits Maggie May and Do Ya Think I'm Sexy? - is in the city for two nights as part of his 'Live The Life' Tour. Across the River Lagan and Blondie - fronted by Debbie Harry along with Chris Stein and drummer Clem Burke - played at the Waterfront Hall. The band have enjoyed an incredible career spanning more than 30 years and have sold more than 40 million records worldwide with hits including Denis, Atomic, Heart of Glass and Hanging On The Telephone. Ahead of the start of the Blondie gig last night, the Waterfront Hall had to be evacuated. Fans were told they had to leave the venue due to an "emergency situation". But the crowds were allowed to return into the building shortly afterwards. It remained unclear last night what was behind the evacuation.
PICTURE: Declan Roughan