Rod Stewart calls Elton John’s retirement tour ‘dishonest’ and ‘not rock ‘n’ roll’

On Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, legendary rocker Rod Stewart commented on the retirement announcement of longtime friend Elton John, and it doesn’t sound like he’s a fan. In an emotional interview in January, John announced he’d be retiring from touring, after a three year, 300 show tour that is. After the announcement, Stewart gave John some good natured ribbing. “I did email her and said, ‘What? Again, dear?’ I didn't hear anything back,” Stewart said. Of his retirement, John said, “My priorities have changed. I have young children.” But Stewart seemed a bit skeptical, alluding to ticket sales as being the driving force behind the announcement. Stewart’s current tour companion, Cindy Lauper, kind of liked the idea. Lauper said, “That's not a bad idea. We could say, ‘For the last time, we're retiring.’ Then one more time. ‘Well, maybe the second to last time.’” “It’s dishonest. It’s not rock ’n’ roll,” Stewart replied. It’s pretty safe to say that Stewart won’t be making any grand announcement when he decides to retire. “I have never spoken about retirement,” Stewart said. “If I do retire, I won't make an announcement, I'll just fade away. I don't think it's a big deal, ‘I’m going to retire.’ It stinks of selling tickets.”