Few bands have left as indelible a mark on rock history as The Faces. Born from the ashes of the Small Faces in the late ’60s, The Faces fused raw energy, bluesy swagger, and rock ‘n’ roll attitude into a sound that would influence generations to come. With Rod Stewart’s raspy vocals, Ronnie Wood’s gritty guitar riffs, and a rhythm section that could groove as hard as it rocked, The Faces quickly became one of the most revered bands of their era.
But beyond their vibrant live performances and legendary antics, it’s their music that stands the test of time. Whether it’s an electrifying anthem that gets your heart racing or a soulful ballad that hits you in the feels, The Faces crafted songs that capture the essence of rock ‘n’ roll. This list isn’t just about chart-toppers—it’s about the tracks that define their legacy, the tunes that fans can’t get enough of, and the songs that continue to inspire musicians to this day.
From rollicking jams to heartfelt melodies, join us as we count down the top 10 most popular songs by The Faces that have earned their eternal place in rock history.
1. “Stay With Me” – 1971
A song that became The Faces’ signature anthem, “Stay With Me” is a raucous rock ‘n’ roll track that bursts with energy. Released in 1971 on their album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, it captures the swagger and raw charisma that defines The Faces. Rod Stewart’s unmistakable, gravelly vocals tell the story of a no-strings-attached night, while Ronnie Wood’s driving guitar riff propels the song forward with irresistible momentum. The combination of Ian McLagan’s boogie-woogie piano and Kenney Jones’ thunderous drumming gives it a rollicking, barroom feel that makes it impossible to sit still. “Stay With Me” became their highest-charting hit, reaching #6 in the UK and #17 in the U.S., and remains a staple of classic rock playlists worldwide.
2. “Ooh La La” – 1973
Released in 1973 as the title track of their final studio album, Ooh La La is a timeless tune that captures a wistful reflection on growing older and the lessons life imparts. Sung by Ronnie Wood, rather than Rod Stewart, the song’s folky, acoustic vibe sets it apart from the band’s harder rock hits. The memorable chorus, “I wish that I knew what I know now, when I was younger,” resonates deeply with listeners of all ages. Its bittersweet lyrics, combined with a simple yet infectious melody, make “Ooh La La” an enduring classic. Though initially overshadowed by other hits, it has since grown to become one of the band’s most beloved tracks, thanks to its universal message and charming delivery.
3. “Cindy Incidentally” – 1973
A gem from Ooh La La, “Cindy Incidentally” was released in 1973 and showcases The Faces at their melodic best. With a more pop-oriented sound compared to the band’s grittier tracks, this song highlights Rod Stewart’s vocal versatility, blending rock with a touch of soulful melody. The groove-driven bassline and jangly guitars create a catchy backdrop for lyrics that tell the story of a woman leaving behind her old life for something new. Its upbeat tempo, combined with a sense of carefree freedom, made it a fan favorite. While it didn’t reach the same commercial heights as “Stay With Me,” it remains a standout in the band’s catalog.
4. “Debris” – 1971
Written by bassist Ronnie Lane, “Debris” is a poignant and introspective ballad that stands in stark contrast to The Faces’ more raucous tracks. Released in 1971 on the album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, the song reflects Lane’s memories of his father and the passage of time. Its haunting melody, delicate acoustic guitar work, and heartfelt lyrics create an emotional depth that resonates long after the music fades. Lane’s introspective songwriting shines here, offering a glimpse into the more tender side of The Faces. While it wasn’t a commercial hit, “Debris” is widely regarded as one of the band’s most beautiful and enduring songs.
5. “Too Bad” – 1971
Raw and unapologetic, “Too Bad” is another standout from A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, released in 1971. The song is a fast-paced, hard-hitting rocker that captures the rebellious spirit of The Faces. With aggressive guitar licks and Rod Stewart’s raspy vocals delivering lyrics about defiance and regret, “Too Bad” is a quintessential Faces track. The driving rhythm section keeps the energy high, making it a perfect example of why this band was such a powerhouse in live performances. Its gritty sound and attitude-laden lyrics make it a fan favorite, especially among those who appreciate the band’s wilder side.
6. “Flying” – 1970
“Flying” was one of the first songs to showcase the full potential of The Faces as a band. Released in 1970 on their debut album First Step, it’s a soaring track that blends rock, blues, and folk influences. The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar before building to a powerful crescendo, driven by Ronnie Wood’s electric guitar and Rod Stewart’s impassioned vocals. The lyrics speak of freedom and escape, themes that would become central to the band’s identity. “Flying” is a perfect example of The Faces’ ability to balance soulful introspection with explosive rock energy, making it a standout track from their early years.
7. “Pool Hall Richard” – 1973
Released as a single in 1973, “Pool Hall Richard” is a swaggering, high-energy track that captures the essence of The Faces’ playful side. The song’s storyline revolves around a pool hustler, with Rod Stewart’s vocals perfectly capturing the mischievous spirit of the character. Ronnie Wood’s guitar work is front and center, delivering sharp, bluesy riffs that drive the song forward. The infectious rhythm and cheeky lyrics make “Pool Hall Richard” a fan favorite, especially during the band’s live shows, where its exuberance truly came to life.
8. “Three Button Hand Me Down” – 1970
“Three Button Hand Me Down” is a joyful celebration of individuality and nonconformity, released on First Step in 1970. With its infectious groove and playful lyrics, the song is a perfect example of The Faces’ blend of rock and soul. Rod Stewart’s vocals are at their most charismatic, delivering a tongue-in-cheek narrative about wearing hand-me-down clothes with pride. The energetic rhythm section, paired with Ronnie Wood’s funky guitar work, keeps the song moving at a brisk pace. It’s a fun, lighthearted track that has become a staple in The Faces’ catalog.
9. “Had Me a Real Good Time” – 1971
As the title suggests, “Had Me a Real Good Time” is a rollicking, celebratory track that embodies the carefree, party-loving spirit of The Faces. Released in 1971, the song features a lively mix of bluesy guitar riffs, upbeat piano, and Rod Stewart’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics reflect on a wild night out, with a sense of knowing that the good times won’t last forever. The song’s high-energy vibe and sing-along chorus made it a favorite among fans, especially during live performances where the band’s chemistry and charisma were on full display.
10. “Glad and Sorry” – 1973
Written by Ronnie Lane and released in 1973 on Ooh La La, “Glad and Sorry” is a tender, introspective ballad that showcases the softer side of The Faces. The song’s simple acoustic arrangement and heartfelt lyrics create a sense of vulnerability, with Lane’s gentle vocals adding to its emotional depth. “Glad and Sorry” is a reflective track about love, regret, and acceptance, offering a poignant contrast to the band’s more raucous songs. Its understated beauty and sincerity make it a hidden gem in The Faces’ catalog, beloved by fans who appreciate the quieter, more introspective moments of the band’s music.