Fans are finally offered the chance to get between the covers with Rod

The singer has signed a global deal with Random House for a memoir next year, after being pursued for years to spill his secrets.

The book will be published in time for the all-important Christmas sales boom next year.

The publisher said yesterday the as-yet-untitled book would be a “candid and romping look back at his life both on and off the stage”.

Father-of-eight Stewart said: “I thought long and hard before committing to write my book. It is a funny old thing telling my life story but I truly intend to hold nothing back.

“I’ve had quite a life, known some extraordinary people and had some amazing experiences. I’ve waited all this time, until my 50th year in the business and realise I can no longer put it off.”

Stewart’s manager, Arnold Stiefel, said: “For more than 20 years, publishers have pursued me to convince Rod to write his autobiography; however he didn’t feel the moment was right and as I learned long ago, he is the master of timing.

“At long last Rod is ready to put pen to paper and Random House, legendary, fabled and never less than relevant, is the ideal publisher.”

Susan Sandon, managing director of Cornerstone Publishing in the UK, which is part of Random House, said: “Rod Stewart is one of a small number of musicians who truly deserve the title of rock ’n’ roll legend – a truly iconic figure whose life story will fascinate readers and music fans around the world.”