The Faces, one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most electrifying bands, burst onto the scene in the late ’60s with a raw, bluesy sound that would go on to influence generations of musicians. With Rod Stewart’s unmistakable rasp, Ron Wood’s gritty guitar riffs, and the tight rhythm section of Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones, The Faces embodied the spirit of rock excess, delivering unforgettable performances both on stage and in the studio. Their music, a potent mix of rock, blues, and soul, is as vibrant and infectious today as it was during their heyday.
In this article, we take a thrilling journey through the band’s legacy, counting down the top 10 most popular Faces songs of all time. From anthems of youthful rebellion to heartfelt ballads, these tracks showcase the raw energy and emotion that made The Faces one of the most beloved bands of their era. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, these songs are sure to remind you why The Faces have earned their place in rock history. So, turn up the volume, and let’s dive into the timeless hits that continue to resonate with music lovers around the world.
A quintessential Faces anthem, “Stay With Me” is the band’s most iconic hit, released in 1971 on their album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse. The song captures the wild, boisterous energy that defined The Faces, with Rod Stewart’s charismatic, gravelly vocals leading the charge. The track opens with Ron Wood’s blistering guitar riff, setting the stage for a rollicking ride through a tale of a one-night stand. With its infectious chorus and driving rhythm, “Stay With Me” became a staple of rock radio and remains a fan favorite to this day. The song embodies the reckless abandon of the early ’70s, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences.
1. Stay With Me (1971)
2. Ooh La La (1973)
Released as the title track of their 1973 album Ooh La La, this song is a bittersweet reflection on life and love, and it stands out for its unique vocal delivery. Unlike many of the band’s other hits, “Ooh La La” is sung by Ronnie Wood, whose raspy voice adds a raw, emotional depth to the lyrics. The song’s catchy acoustic melody and reflective lyrics make it a standout track in The Faces’ catalog. Its nostalgic chorus, “I wish that I knew what I know now, when I was younger,” has become a timeless anthem for those reflecting on the lessons learned over the years. This track highlights The Faces’ ability to blend introspective songwriting with their signature sound, making it one of their most enduring songs.
3. Cindy Incidentally (1973)
“Cindy Incidentally” is a track that showcases The Faces’ knack for blending rock with a soulful groove. Released in 1973 on Ooh La La, this song features a catchy piano riff by Ian McLagan and an infectious chorus that makes it an instant earworm. The lyrics, co-written by Stewart, Wood, and McLagan, tell the story of a man urging a woman named Cindy to leave her troubles behind and run away with him. The song’s upbeat tempo and spirited performance make it one of The Faces’ most popular tracks, capturing the band’s ability to craft songs that are both fun and deeply engaging.
4. Debris (1971)
“Debris,” from the band’s 1971 album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, is a deeply personal song written and sung by bassist Ronnie Lane. A departure from the band’s usual raucous style, “Debris” is a poignant, introspective ballad that touches on themes of loss and nostalgia. Lane’s gentle vocals and the song’s melancholy melody create an atmosphere of wistful reflection. The lyrics, which seem to reminisce about a relationship with his father, are both tender and haunting. “Debris” showcases The Faces’ versatility, proving that they could deliver heartfelt ballads with as much conviction as their high-energy rockers.
5. Flying (1970)
“Flying,” the opening track from The Faces’ 1970 debut album First Step, is a soaring rock anthem that perfectly captures the optimism and freedom of the era. With its uplifting lyrics and powerful instrumentation, “Flying” quickly became a fan favorite. The song features a dynamic interplay between Wood’s guitar and McLagan’s keyboards, creating a rich, layered sound that propels the track forward. Rod Stewart’s passionate vocals add to the song’s soaring quality, making it a perfect anthem for those seeking liberation and adventure. “Flying” remains one of The Faces’ most beloved songs, embodying the spirit of a band ready to take on the world.
6. Three Button Hand Me Down (1970)
“Three Button Hand Me Down,” another gem from First Step (1970), is a swaggering, blues-infused track that showcases The Faces’ signature sound. The song features a driving rhythm section, gritty guitar work, and Rod Stewart’s unmistakable voice delivering lyrics about a man making the best of what he has. The track’s infectious groove and confident attitude make it a standout in the band’s catalog. With its blend of rock, blues, and a touch of soul, “Three Button Hand Me Down” is a perfect example of The Faces’ ability to craft songs that are both gritty and irresistibly catchy.
7. Miss Judy’s Farm (1971)
“Miss Judy’s Farm,” released on A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse in 1971, is a rollicking rock song that captures the band at their rowdiest. The song tells the story of a rebellious escapade on a farm, with Stewart’s raspy vocals leading the charge. Ron Wood’s guitar work is particularly standout, driving the song with a raw, energetic riff that perfectly complements the lyrics’ mischievous tone. “Miss Judy’s Farm” is a high-energy track that exemplifies The Faces’ ability to create music that is both fun and full of attitude, making it a favorite among fans.
8. Pool Hall Richard (1973)
Released as a non-album single in 1973, “Pool Hall Richard” is a hard-driving rock track that showcases The Faces at their best. The song features a powerful, bluesy riff from Ron Wood and a swaggering vocal performance from Rod Stewart. The lyrics tell the story of a pool hustler, capturing the gritty, rebellious spirit of the band. “Pool Hall Richard” is a perfect example of The Faces’ ability to blend rock and blues into a sound that is both raw and polished. The track’s driving rhythm and infectious energy make it a standout in the band’s catalog and a favorite among fans.
9. Had Me a Real Good Time (1971)
“Had Me a Real Good Time,” from the 1971 album Long Player, is a raucous, celebratory track that captures the essence of The Faces’ party-loving reputation. The song features a rollicking piano line from Ian McLagan and a driving rhythm that propels the track forward. Rod Stewart’s playful vocal delivery and the song’s upbeat tempo make it an irresistible anthem for letting loose and having fun. The lyrics, which describe a wild night out, are delivered with the band’s signature blend of humor and swagger. “Had Me a Real Good Time” is a quintessential Faces track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s carefree, spirited attitude.
10. Too Bad (1971)
“Too Bad,” another standout from A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971), is a gritty, blues-infused track that showcases The Faces’ raw energy. The song features a driving guitar riff from Ron Wood and a powerful vocal performance from Rod Stewart. The lyrics tell the story of a man down on his luck, delivered with the band’s trademark blend of humor and attitude. “Too Bad” captures the rebellious spirit of The Faces, making it a fan favorite and a perfect example of the band’s ability to create music that is both raw and irresistibly catchy.