The Story In The Song – Rod Stewart – The Killing Of Georgie

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This 1976 hit, released as a two part single due to its six and half minute length, is probably Rod Stewart’s most important song, and certainly his most politically and socially conscious. I know from recent threads that @teamfreak16 dislikes Rod, but I like his work, and this song really stands out for me, as one of the first to address the issues and dangers of homosexuality very directly. The story has Georgie thrown out of his family home when he dares to come out in the open about his sexuality which his father is ashamed about. His Mother’s tears are ambiguous as it is unclear if she defends George unsuccessfully or fully supports her husband in his unforgiving and uncompromising hostility to the son. Georgie moves to New York where he becomes a popular socialite and a frequent guest at showbiz parties and Broadway shows. When finding one opening night disappointing, Georgie walks out of the theatre discreetly before the show ends and dares to take a short cut on his way home only to die in a knife attack when a mugging / homophobic assault leaves him bleeding to death in the gutter. The singer laments Georgie’s passing and proudly declares his honour at having been his friend. The song is based on the tragic fate of a gay man Rod knew from his days in The Faces band, before his solo career began. The full song on Youtube Arthur Chappell