The Faces were a British rock band formed in 1969, comprising members of two earlier bands, The Small Faces and The Jeff Beck Group. The group consisted of lead vocalist Rod Stewart, guitarist Ronnie Wood, keyboardist Ian McLagan, bassist Ronnie Lane, and drummer Kenney Jones. They were known for their energetic live performances and a raw, blues-influenced sound that blended rock, soul, and folk.
The Faces released four studio albums and several hit singles, including “Stay With Me”, “Cindy Incidentally”, and “Ooh La La”. Their music was characterized by Stewart’s distinctive voice, Wood’s fiery guitar playing, and the band’s tight, rollicking rhythm section.
Despite their commercial success and critical acclaim, The Faces were known for their raucous, hedonistic lifestyle, which often spilled over into their performances. Their live shows were legendary for their high-energy, unpredictable nature, with the band members frequently swapping instruments and engaging in onstage antics.
The Faces disbanded in 1975, with Stewart and Wood going on to pursue successful solo careers. However, their influence on the rock genre and subsequent generations of musicians cannot be overstated. Their legacy lives on as a testament to their enduring popularity and their impact on the sound of rock and roll.
1. Maybe I’m Amazed (1970)
“Maybe I’m Amazed” is a love song written by Paul McCartney and released in 1970. The song was inspired by McCartney’s wife, Linda, and expresses his deep and enduring love for her. The song features McCartney’s signature melodic style, with his emotional vocals and piano playing at the forefront. The instrumentation builds throughout the song, with the addition of guitar, drums, and backing vocals, creating a powerful and uplifting effect. The lyrics are both personal and universal, capturing the joy and wonder of falling in love. “Maybe I’m Amazed” is a timeless classic and a beautiful tribute to love and devotion.
2. Miss Judy’s Farm (1971)
“Miss Judy’s Farm” is a song by British rock band The Faces, released in 1971 as a single from their album “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse”. The song features lead vocals by Rod Stewart and a driving guitar riff by Ronnie Wood. The lyrics describe the narrator’s visit to Miss Judy’s farm, where he encounters a variety of colorful characters and indulges in various vices. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a standout track on the album and a favorite among fans of The Faces’ unique blend of bluesy rock and roll.
3. Had Me A Real Good Time (1970)
“Had Me a Real Good Time” is a 1970 rock song by English band Faces. The song features a bluesy rock sound, with Rod Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals delivering the upbeat and humorous lyrics about a wild night out on the town. The song’s infectious melody is driven by an energetic rhythm section, punctuated by Mick Ralphs’ guitar riffs and Ian McLagan’s organ playing. “Had Me a Real Good Time” became a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances, showcasing their raw and energetic sound. The song remains a classic example of the British rock sound of the early 1970s.
4. Love Lives Here (1971)
“Love Lives Here” is a soulful ballad released in 1971 by British rock band, Faces. The song features Rod Stewart’s emotive vocals and Ronnie Wood’s intricate guitar work. The lyrics speak to the power of love to bring people together and create a sense of home and belonging. The instrumentation is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar and piano, and the use of a gospel choir in the chorus adds an uplifting and spiritual quality to the song. “Love Lives Here” is a poignant and touching song about the transformative power of love and its ability to create a sense of belonging in our lives.
5. Pool Hall Richard (1973)
“Pool Hall Richard” is a song by British rock band The Faces, released in 1973 as a B-side to their single “Cindy Incidentally”. The song features lead vocals by Ronnie Lane and a funky, blues-inspired sound. The lyrics describe the antics of the titular character, a pool hall hustler with a reputation for causing trouble. The song’s catchy melody and lively instrumental arrangements showcase The Faces’ trademark sound, with Rod Stewart’s distinctive backing vocals adding a touch of humor to the song. Despite being a B-side, “Pool Hall Richard” has become a fan favorite and a testament to The Faces’ enduring legacy.
6. Debris (1971)
“Debris” is a 1971 folk rock song by English band Faces, written by lead vocalist Rod Stewart. The song features a stripped-down acoustic sound, with Stewart’s raw and emotive vocals delivering the poignant lyrics about the aftermath of a loved one’s death. The song’s haunting melody is supported by Ronnie Wood’s delicate guitar playing and Ian McLagan’s piano and organ, creating an atmosphere of melancholy and reflection. “Debris” showcases Stewart’s songwriting and vocal talents, as well as the band’s ability to move beyond their trademark boisterous sound and deliver a sensitive and moving performance. The song remains a highlight of the band’s discography.
7. Cindy Incidentally (1973)
“Cindy Incidentally” is a 1973 rock song by British band The Faces. The song features the distinctive vocals of Rod Stewart and the dynamic guitar playing of Ron Wood. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a quintessential example of the British rock sound of the early 1970s. The lyrics tell the story of a girl named Cindy and her adventures in the city, with a focus on the joy and excitement of youth and the thrill of exploring new places. “Cindy Incidentally” is a fun and energetic song that captures the spirit of youth and adventure.
8. Ooh La La (1973)
“Ooh La La” is a song by British rock band The Faces, released in 1973 as the title track of their final studio album. The song features lead vocals by Ronnie Wood and a stripped-down, acoustic sound. The lyrics describe the wisdom and advice imparted by an older man to a younger one, with lines such as “I wish that I knew what I know now when I was younger” becoming iconic in popular culture. The song’s bittersweet tone and wistful lyrics have made it a favorite among fans and a fitting sendoff to The Faces’ legendary career.
9. You Can Make Me Dance, Sing or Anything (1974)
“You Can Make Me Dance, Sing or Anything” is a 1974 rock song by English band Faces, featuring lead vocals by bassist Ronnie Lane. The song’s upbeat and infectious rhythm is driven by a combination of electric and acoustic guitar, bass, drums, and piano, creating a sound that blends rock, blues, and folk influences. Lane’s charismatic vocals deliver the playful and flirtatious lyrics with a sense of fun and energy, while the band’s musicianship shines through in their dynamic playing and tight harmonies. “You Can Make Me Dance, Sing or Anything” is a prime example of the band’s ability to deliver catchy, feel-good rock and roll.
10. Stay With Me (1971)
“Stay With Me” is a song by British rock band The Faces, released in 1971 as a single from their album “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse”. The song features lead vocals by Rod Stewart and a hard-hitting, guitar-driven sound. The lyrics describe a one-night stand with a lover and the narrator’s desire for her to stay with him. The song’s catchy chorus and driving rhythm section have made it a classic rock staple and a fan favorite, with its memorable guitar riff and Stewart’s dynamic vocals becoming iconic in rock music history.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
