Gregory Wolfe brings raspy, authentic Rod Stewart tribute to Amphitheater tonight

Tribute to Rod Stewart Thursday, Aug. 21, 7:30 p.m. Amphitheater Stage

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Most audiences have to do a double take when they see Gregory Wolfe hit the stage as Rod Stewart, and they do it again once they hear him sing. Covering all the hits and ballads, Gregory Wolfe is as close to Rod Stewart as a tribute can possibly get.

Gregory Wolfe’s taste in music developed at an early age, listening to crooners like Nat King Cole and Andy Williams.

In the summer of 1984, Wolfe entered himself in a tribute contest that would forever change his future. Soon after, he was flown to Los Angeles by the producers of what was, at that time, the No. 1 rated television show in syndication, “Putt’n On The Hits.” After his appearance on that program, Wolfe relocated to Los Angeles and not long after, began making a career of impersonating the great Rock and Roll Hall of Fame legend, Rod Stewart. He has since taken his act worldwide, entertaining all over the globe.

When interviewed by the Orange Coast Magazine, Wolfe shared his experience impersonating Rod Stewart for the first time.

“It was a mock rock contest back in Michigan. I got some flashy clothes, messed up my hair, and about 15 Bacardi and Cokes later, I got on stage and ended up winning the thing,” said Wolfe.

In 2005, Wolfe started working with a 35-piece orchestra based in Orange County, California, performing the standards from Stewart’s recently released “Great American Songbook Collection” at corporate functions and fundraisers in Los Angeles area.

Wolfe is just as comfortable in front of a four-piece band as he is in front of a large orchestra. His ability to stir up the audience with Rod Stewart’s signature moves is what the crowds and fans remember.

“I refuse to let the crowd just sit there. I make sure they’ll get into it. If I’m having fun, usually the crowd reciprocates and has a good time too!” said Wolfe.

See the full season lineup is listed on page 15. Amphitheater rules are listed on page 16.