Rod Stewart says Ed Sheeran's songs won't stand the test of time.

The 79-year-old rocker has admitted he doesn't actually recall any of Ed's tunes and he's adamant they won't still be played in 50 years time like Rod's classic 'Maggie May' which remains popular more than fives decades after its release back in 1971.

Rod made the admission in an interview with The Times newspaper during which he was asked which current musicians are producing timeless hits , and the musician replied: "I’m sure they are. You mean like 'Maggie May'? Songs that will be played in 50 years?"

However, Rod then forgot the name of a current artist he admires, saying: "I like whatshisname ... Oh ... great, Rod. Well done. He’s British, really talented and his songs will be around."

When asked if he meant to say Sheeran, Rod retorted: "No, not Ed, I don’t know any of his songs, old ginger [nonsense]. Jesus."

Rod eventually remembered the artist he is keen on is George Ezra, adding: "I think he writes really tremendous songs. He’ll be around for quite a while."

Elsewhere in the interview, Rod went on to admit he worries young artists today now care more about being famous than producing excellent music.

He added: "We were brave in those days to go into the music business. We didn’t know where it would take us but record companies were different. They would give you a try ... The people I came up with - the Stones, Elton - we all came into it because we loved the music.

"Money and fame didn’t factor - it was a burning ambition to sing. That may have changed. Now it’s more: ‘Ooh, let’s have a go at music. I don’t even have to play well. Maybe I’ll get rich.’ Fame comes before everything. All kids want is fame."