In 1989, music fans were treated to a special collaboration when Rod Stewart joined forces with Ronald Isley to perform the classic song “This Old Heart of Mine.” The performance, featured on Stewart’s Storyteller – The Complete Anthology: 1964–1990 project, brought together two legendary singers from different musical backgrounds.
The song was originally recorded in 1966 by The Isley Brothers and became one of the group’s most beloved hits. Written by the famous Motown songwriting team Holland–Dozier–Holland, the track tells the story of a person whose heart keeps returning to a love despite repeated heartbreak.
When Rod Stewart and Ronald Isley recorded the song together, they gave the classic hit a fresh and modern sound while keeping its soulful spirit intact. Stewart’s distinctive raspy voice blended perfectly with Isley’s smooth and powerful vocals. Their chemistry made the song feel both nostalgic and exciting.
The 1989 version was a commercial success. It introduced the song to a new generation of listeners and helped bring renewed attention to one of Motown’s timeless classics. Fans appreciated how the two singers respected the original recording while adding their own personalities to it.
One of the highlights of the performance is the contrast between the two voices. Stewart brings rock-and-roll energy, while Isley delivers the soulful style that made the original song famous. Together, they create a memorable duet that celebrates the strengths of both artists.
More than three decades later, the collaboration remains a favorite among fans of classic rock and soul music. It serves as a reminder that great songs can cross generations and musical genres when performed with passion and authenticity.
“This Old Heart of Mine” is not just a song about love and heartbreak—it is also a perfect example of how two music legends can come together to create something special. The partnership between Rod Stewart and Ronald Isley turned an already beloved classic into an unforgettable musical moment.