The Faces were a British rock band formed in 1969. The group emerged from the ashes of the Small Faces, a mod-influenced band, and the Jeff Beck Group.
The Faces were known for their loose, bluesy rock sound and their energetic and raucous live performances. Rod Stewart’s distinctive gravelly voice and charismatic stage presence, combined with Ronnie Wood’s guitar work and the camaraderie among the band members, contributed to their appeal.
Some of their notable albums include “First Step” (1970), “Long Player” (1971), and “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse” (1971). Their most well-known songs include “Stay with Me,” “Ooh La La,” and “Had Me a Real Good Time.”
However, the Faces were relatively short-lived, disbanding in 1975. Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood went on to achieve significant success in their respective solo careers, while the other members pursued various musical projects. Despite their brief existence, the Faces left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape and are remembered as a spirited and influential band of the early 1970s.
1. Stay with Me
“Stay with Me” is one of the most well-known and successful songs by the Faces, released in 1971. The song is often considered a rock classic and is a staple in classic rock playlists.
The song features Rod Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals, which became a trademark of the band. The lyrics, co-written by Stewart and Faces guitarist Ronnie Wood, capture a sense of urgency and desire. The chorus, with the repeated plea to “stay with me,” adds a raw and emotional element to the track.
Musically, “Stay with Me” is characterized by its bluesy rock sound, driven by Ronnie Wood’s guitar riffs and the energetic rhythm section provided by Ronnie Lane on bass and Kenney Jones on drums. The song’s infectious energy, combined with Stewart’s charismatic delivery, contributed to its commercial success.
“Stay with Me” reached the top 10 in both the UK and the US, and its popularity has endured over the years. The Faces’ performance of the song, both in the studio and in their live shows, is often praised for its raw intensity and rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
2. Ooh La La
“Ooh La La” is a song by the British rock band Faces. It was the title track and the closing song on their fourth and final studio album, released in 1973. The Faces were a rock and roll band formed in 1969 and featured notable members such as Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood.
“Ooh La La” is a folk-influenced song with a laid-back, acoustic sound. It is known for its charming and nostalgic lyrics, sung by Ronnie Wood rather than Rod Stewart, who was the band’s primary vocalist. The song reflects on the passage of time and the wisdom that comes with experience.
The chorus of the song includes the famous lines:
“I wish that I knew what I know now,
When I was younger.”
These lines convey a sense of reflection and a realization about the value of life’s lessons. The song has a timeless quality and has been appreciated for its heartfelt and sincere approach.
3. Cindy Incidentally
“Cindy Incidentally” is another song by the British rock band Faces, and it was released in 1973. Like “Ooh La La,” it’s from their album of the same name. The song features Rod Stewart on lead vocals and is known for its catchy and upbeat feel.
The lyrics of “Cindy Incidentally” are a mix of playful and poetic elements, and the song is often considered a classic example of the Faces’ sound during their brief but influential career. It has a rock and roll vibe with a touch of blues, showcasing the band’s ability to blend various musical influences into their own distinctive style.
The Faces disbanded in 1975, but their music has continued to be appreciated by fans of classic rock, and both “Ooh La La” and “Cindy Incidentally” remain popular tracks from their discography.
4. Had Me a Real Good Time
“Had Me a Real Good Time” is a lively and spirited rock song by the Faces, released on their 1971 album “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse.” The song captures the band’s signature blend of bluesy rock, humor, and rollicking energy.
Key features of “Had Me a Real Good Time” include Rod Stewart’s distinctive and soulful vocals, Ronnie Wood’s energetic guitar work, and the overall camaraderie and chemistry of the Faces as a band. The lyrics convey a sense of carefree enjoyment and celebration, reflecting the band’s reputation for their raucous and high-spirited live performances.
The Faces were known for their ability to create a party atmosphere with their music, and “Had Me a Real Good Time” is a prime example of this. The song’s infectious groove, catchy chorus, and upbeat tempo contribute to its enduring popularity.
While the Faces had a relatively short-lived existence, songs like “Had Me a Real Good Time” continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal and their representation of the band’s contribution to the rock and roll landscape of the early 1970s.
5. Miss Judy’s Farm
“Miss Judy’s Farm” is a song by the British rock band Faces, released in 1971. It is part of their third studio album, “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse.” The Faces were known for their lively and energetic rock sound, led by the charismatic vocals of Rod Stewart and the guitar work of Ronnie Wood.
“Miss Judy’s Farm” features a catchy and bluesy rock riff, and it’s known for its infectious rhythm and dynamic instrumentation. The lyrics tell a story about a romantic encounter with Miss Judy on her farm. The song captures the playful and carefree spirit that was characteristic of the Faces’ music.
The Faces had a relatively short but impactful career, and their music is often celebrated for its raw, unpretentious style. “Miss Judy’s Farm” is one of the many songs that exemplify the band’s contribution to the rock and roll scene of the early 1970s.
6. Debris
“Debris” is a song by the Faces, released on their 1971 album “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse.” The song is notable for its poignant and reflective lyrics, as well as its emotional delivery by lead vocalist Rod Stewart.
Written by Ronnie Lane, the bassist of the Faces, “Debris” is a heartfelt and introspective song that reflects on the passage of time and the impact of life’s experiences. The lyrics are deeply personal, as Lane wrote the song about his father, who was suffering from multiple sclerosis. The title “Debris” is a reference to the debris of memories and emotions that accumulate over a lifetime.
Rod Stewart’s emotive singing and the acoustic instrumentation give the song a sincere and touching quality. The stripped-down arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar and piano, complements the intimate nature of the lyrics. The Faces, known for their energetic and boisterous rock songs, showcase a more tender and vulnerable side with “Debris.”
While “Debris” may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of the Faces’ more upbeat tracks, it has gained recognition for its emotional depth and is often regarded as one of the band’s finest and most emotionally resonant compositions. The song’s timeless quality and its ability to connect on a personal level have contributed to its enduring popularity.
7. Pool Hall Richard
“Pool Hall Richard” is a song by the British rock band Faces, released in 1973. It was a non-album single and did not appear on any of the band’s studio albums. Faces were known for their energetic and raw rock sound, and “Pool Hall Richard” is no exception.
The song features Rod Stewart on vocals and showcases the band’s signature mix of rock, blues, and a bit of boogie-woogie. The lyrics of “Pool Hall Richard” tell the story of a character named Richard who frequents a pool hall, and the song captures the lively and carefree spirit of the band.
While “Pool Hall Richard” may not be as well-known as some of Faces’ other hits, it still reflects the band’s fun-loving and unpolished approach to rock and roll. The Faces, with members such as Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, left a lasting impact on the rock music scene during the early 1970s.
8. You Can Make Me Dance, Sing, or Anything
“You Can Make Me Dance, Sing, or Anything (Even Take the Dog for a Walk, Mend a Fuse, Fold Away the Ironing Board, or Any Other Domestic Shortcomings)” is a song by the Faces, released in 1974. It is the title track from their last studio album as a band, which also bears the same lengthy title.
The song reflects the Faces’ trademark blend of rock, blues, and a sense of humor. The lyrics playfully depict the willingness of the singer to do anything and everything for a loved one. The title itself is a humorous and exaggerated expression of devotion.
Musically, the track features the Faces’ characteristic raw and energetic sound. Rod Stewart’s soulful and raspy vocals, coupled with the band’s lively instrumentation, contribute to the overall infectious and carefree vibe of the song.
Despite its somewhat tongue-in-cheek title, “You Can Make Me Dance, Sing, or Anything” showcases the Faces’ ability to create enjoyable and memorable rock music. The band’s chemistry and camaraderie shine through in the song, making it a fitting and fun farewell track for the Faces, who disbanded shortly after the release of the album.
9. Silicone Grown
“Silicone Grown” is a song by the British rock band Faces, released in 1973. It is part of their fourth and final studio album, “Ooh La La.” The Faces were known for their rollicking and bluesy rock sound, driven by the charismatic vocals of Rod Stewart and the musical contributions of other talented members, including Ronnie Wood.
“Silicone Grown” features Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals and showcases the band’s signature mix of rock and rhythm and blues. The lyrics touch on the theme of artificiality and modernity, with the title referring to the use of silicone in breast augmentation, a topic that was gaining attention in the 1970s.
The Faces’ music is often celebrated for its raw, unpretentious style, and “Silicone Grown” is an example of their ability to infuse humor and social commentary into their rock songs. The band disbanded in 1975, but their influence on rock music, especially during the early 1970s, is still recognized and appreciated.
10. Maybe I’m Amazed
“Maybe I’m Amazed” is a classic rock song written by Paul McCartney. It first appeared on McCartney’s debut solo album, “McCartney,” released in 1970. The song is widely regarded as one of McCartney’s greatest compositions and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
The genesis of “Maybe I’m Amazed” lies in McCartney’s feelings following the breakup of The Beatles. The song is a love letter to his wife, Linda McCartney, and expresses the profound impact her support had on him during a difficult period. The emotional depth of the lyrics, coupled with McCartney’s soulful vocal delivery, has resonated with listeners for decades.
“Maybe I’m Amazed” gained even more prominence when it was included in Paul McCartney’s live performances, both as a solo artist and with Wings. A live version from the Wings Over America album, released in 1976, further solidified the song’s status as a powerful and enduring ballad.
The song’s popularity extends beyond its original release, and it remains a staple in McCartney’s live repertoire. “Maybe I’m Amazed” is celebrated for its sincerity, raw emotion, and timeless quality, making it one of the standout tracks in McCartney’s extensive solo career.
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.
