The crowd erupted in waves of cheers as Rod Stewart took the stage, his raspy voice electrifying the Glasgow night. Draped in tartan and exuding charisma, he belted out classic hits that had the audience singing along with every word. Moments later, Susan Boyle’s angelic voice soared through the stadium, captivating hearts with her rendition of a beloved ballad. The contrast of Stewart’s fiery energy and Boyle’s ethereal grace created a perfect harmony, leaving the crowd mesmerized. The opening ceremony was more than a spectacle—it was a heartfelt celebration of Scottish pride, bringing tears of joy to many in the stands.

Great Scots! Rod Stewart and Susan Boyle light up Glasgow at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony

On Wednesday evening the spotlight was firmly fixed on Glasgow as the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony championed the best of Scottish talent.

Leading the way was Rod Stewart, who took to the stage at the city’s Celtic Park after versatile performer John Barrowman and Karen Dunbar kicked proceedings off with a song penned especially for the event.

Dressed in a shimmering silver suit, ageing rocker Rod – who was born in North London to a Scottish father and English mother – launched into his 1991 hit Rhythm Of The Heart.

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Great Scots! Rod Stewart performs at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Glasgow on Wednesday evening

He made a second appearance onstage later that night to perform new track Can’t Stop Me Now shortly before The Queen announced The Games open.

Britain’s Got Talent finalist Susan Boyle was also on hand to perform at the event, performing a version of Wings hit Mull Of Kintyre ahead of The Queen’s arrival.

Her Majesty was greeted by rapturous applause as she spoke of the ‘shared ideals and ambitions’ of the Commonwealth during her speech to officially open the Games.

Go on Rod! The aging rocker performed his 1991 hit Rhythm of the Heart

Hi ho silver: Rod sported a shimmering two-piece suit for his performance on Wednesday evening

She’s got some talent: Susan Boyle performed Wings hit Mull of Kintyre

Centre stage: Susan appeared onstage ahead of The Queen’s arrival on Wednesday evening

Her Majesty highlighted the ‘bonds that unite’ the 71 nations and territories when she formally declared the 20th Commonwealth Games open at Celtic Park this evening.

In an address directed at all of the athletes competing in the Games, she made special reference to the young people of the Commonwealth, saying they are entrusted with its values and future

The message, which was kept secret until tonight, has circled the globe over the last nine months, since the Queen placed the paper inside the baton which then visited all 71 locations.

Making a stand: John Barrowman received public backing for his televised gay kiss

Elsewhere John Barrowman’s televised kiss with another man was backed on social media platforms.

In what was seen as a clear message to the 42 countries of the Commonwealth where it is still a crime to be gay, Glasgow-born Barrowman reached out to kiss the man before holding his hand.

The moment took place during a sequence to celebrate Gretna Green, the village on the Scottish/English border that is celebrated as a destination for eloping couples.