There are few bands that capture the raw energy and swagger of rock ‘n’ roll quite like The Faces. Emerging from the ashes of the Small Faces in the late 1960s, this British powerhouse fused bluesy grooves, gritty vocals, and a rowdy, carefree spirit that defined an era. With Rod Stewart’s unmistakable raspy voice, Ronnie Wood’s blistering guitar work, and the tight rhythm section of Ronnie Lane and Kenney Jones, The Faces carved out a rebellious sound that still resonates today. Their music is both infectious and timeless, blending soulful ballads with raucous rock anthems that hit you straight in the gut.
But which songs truly stand out in their legendary catalog? In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular The Faces Songs of All Time—tracks that not only captured the hearts of fans but also cemented their place in rock history. From foot-stomping pub rockers to heartfelt singalongs, these songs showcase the band’s unmatched chemistry and enduring influence. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to their music, get ready to rediscover the electrifying sound of The Faces as we dive into the very best of their unforgettable hits!
1. “Stay with Me” (1971)
“Stay with Me,” released in 1971 as part of The Faces’ album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, is arguably the band’s most iconic track, embodying the raw energy and swagger that made them a staple of rock ‘n’ roll. Written by Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, the song blends blistering guitar riffs with Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals to create an anthem that’s both brash and irresistible. The track tells the story of a short-lived romance, with Stewart delivering a playful yet blunt warning to a lover who is too eager to linger past the excitement. The catchy refrain of “Stay with me” is drenched in both urgency and charisma, matching the frenzied pace of the music. The Faces’ signature sound is on full display here: an infectious mix of rock, blues, and the carefree, rebellious attitude that defined their persona. The chorus is a crowd favorite, one that often ignites spontaneous sing-alongs at live shows, thanks to its anthemic quality and Stewart’s undeniable magnetism as a frontman. With its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and memorable lyrics, “Stay with Me” not only became a defining moment in The Faces’ career but also a timeless rock classic. The song’s portrayal of fleeting love, coupled with the raucous, celebratory energy of the music, encapsulates everything that made The Faces stand out in the early 1970s rock scene. Whether blaring through speakers at a bar or blasting through stadium speakers, “Stay with Me” continues to capture the essence of living for the moment, a perfect embodiment of the wild spirit of the times.
2. “Ooh La La” (1973)
From The Faces’ final studio album Ooh La La, the title track has become one of the band’s most beloved songs, known for its reflective tone and folk-inspired melody. Released in 1973, “Ooh La La” marked a departure from the band’s usual raucous rock style, instead offering a softer, more introspective sound that resonated deeply with listeners. Sung by bassist Ronnie Lane, the track captures a sense of nostalgia and wisdom gained from life’s ups and downs. The lyrics speak directly to the feeling of growing older and the bittersweet realization that time and experience have their own lessons. The chorus, “I wish that I knew what I know now, when I was younger,” has a timeless, universal appeal, speaking to anyone who has ever looked back on their younger years with a mixture of regret and understanding. The song’s acoustic-driven arrangement, with its gentle guitar strumming and light percussion, creates a warm, introspective atmosphere, allowing Lane’s heartfelt vocals to shine. While it wasn’t initially a chart-topping hit, “Ooh La La” has since gained a reputation as one of The Faces’ most poignant songs, often cited as a personal reflection on aging and the passage of time. It stands as a testament to the band’s musical versatility, showing that they were capable of creating more than just raucous rock anthems. Instead, with “Ooh La La,” they delivered a deeply emotional, reflective piece that has only grown in stature over the years, becoming a highlight of their catalog and a fan favorite. The track’s understated beauty and simple wisdom give it a timeless quality, making it an unforgettable piece in the Faces’ musical legacy.
3. “Cindy Incidentally” (1973)
From The Faces’ 1973 album Ooh La La, “Cindy Incidentally” is a standout track that blends rock with a laid-back groove, showcasing the band’s ability to effortlessly mix genres while maintaining their signature sound. Co-written by Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, and Ian McLagan, the song tells the story of a woman, Cindy, caught in the turmoil of a complicated situation, seeking a way out. The narrator offers her a fresh start, giving the track a sense of hope and renewal, set against a backdrop of cool, soulful rock. The song’s smooth blend of piano, guitar, and Stewart’s unmistakable voice creates a breezy yet emotionally charged atmosphere. The easygoing rhythm, marked by McLagan’s piano lines and Wood’s melodic guitar work, provides a perfect backdrop to Stewart’s delivery, which is both comforting and empowering. The lyrics offer a story of moving on and letting go, with Cindy being given the opportunity to break free from her troubles. The track balances its soulful, reflective lyrics with a fun, almost jazzy rhythm that makes it stand out in The Faces’ discography. While the song wasn’t one of their biggest hits, “Cindy Incidentally” became a favorite among fans for its catchy melody, poignant lyrics, and the relaxed vibe that The Faces mastered so well. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever been in a moment of transition, offering a sense of escape and freedom wrapped in the unmistakable, laid-back energy that The Faces could deliver better than anyone. With its combination of groove and narrative, “Cindy Incidentally” remains a beloved gem in the band’s catalog.
4. “Debris” (1971)
“Debris,” from The Faces’ 1971 album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, is a deeply personal and emotional track that departs from the band’s typical raucous rock sound. Written and sung by bassist Ronnie Lane, the song offers a tender ballad that reflects Lane’s complex relationship with his father. The lyrics are filled with nostalgic longing and a sense of loss, evoking imagery of a time when things were simpler and more innocent. “Debris” is stripped down in its arrangement, with minimal instrumentation that allows Lane’s heartfelt vocals to take center stage. The gentle strumming of acoustic guitar, accompanied by subtle percussion, creates a hauntingly beautiful soundscape, where the weight of the lyrics resonates deeply with the listener. In the song, Lane reflects on his father’s impact on his life, contrasting the sense of attachment and abandonment. It’s a rare, intimate moment within The Faces’ catalog, showcasing a vulnerability that isn’t often found in their typically boisterous rock anthems. While the track stands in stark contrast to the band’s usual upbeat vibe, “Debris” demonstrates their versatility and depth as musicians, capable of crafting songs that touch on deeply personal themes. Over time, it has grown in stature as one of the band’s most cherished songs, beloved for its raw emotion and reflective tone. “Debris” remains a standout track not just for its lyrical poignancy, but also for its ability to connect on a deeply personal level, making it an enduring classic in The Faces’ discography.
5. “Flying” (1970)
“Flying” from The Faces’ 1970 debut album First Step is a high-energy track that marks one of the band’s earliest and most powerful songs. The track showcases The Faces’ blues-influenced roots, with Rod Stewart’s powerhouse vocals driving the track alongside Ronnie Wood’s melodic guitar work. “Flying” is an anthemic song about escaping the limitations of life and soaring into freedom, both metaphorically and literally. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning for liberation and the desire to break free from the weight of the everyday world. This theme is perfectly captured in the uplifting chorus, which has a soaring, expansive quality that makes the listener feel as though they too are being swept up in the music. The song builds gradually, its intensity growing as it reaches its peak, creating an exhilarating sense of release and freedom. The Faces’ musicianship is on full display here, with intricate guitar lines, a steady rhythm section, and Stewart’s impassioned delivery making “Flying” feel both jubilant and empowering. It’s a song that captures the essence of the band’s early sound—an infectious, freewheeling energy that makes it impossible not to get swept up in the moment. “Flying” wasn’t a commercial hit at the time of its release, but it remains a fan favorite and an early example of The Faces’ ability to blend rock, blues, and a sense of boundless optimism into something truly special. With its message of hope and release, “Flying” is one of the tracks that shows why The Faces would go on to become such an influential force in rock music.
6. “Three Button Hand Me Down” (1970)
From The Faces’ debut album First Step, “Three Button Hand Me Down” is a swaggering, blues-infused rocker that perfectly encapsulates the band’s irreverent, carefree attitude. Released in 1970, the track features a catchy boogie-woogie piano line, driven by an infectious rhythm that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. The song tells the story of a man who, despite his modest appearance—wearing second-hand clothes—manages to maintain an air of confidence and charm. The lyrics, delivered with Rod Stewart’s unmistakable gravelly vocals, capture the spirit of rebellion and self-assuredness. With the narrator’s carefree attitude toward life, “Three Button Hand Me Down” channels a sense of fun and defiance, making it a perfect representation of the band’s ethos. Musically, the track is a mix of boogie and blues, with its upbeat tempo and rollicking piano riff pushing the song forward. The interplay between Stewart’s vocals and Ronnie Wood’s vibrant guitar work adds another layer of energy, giving the song a loose, impromptu feel that makes it irresistible. The song quickly became a fan favorite, often featured in the band’s live sets, where the crowd would sing along to its infectious chorus. “Three Button Hand Me Down” might not have been the band’s most serious track, but its joyous, unpretentious vibe made it one of their most enduring songs. The song’s playful nature and spirited performance have ensured that it remains a standout in The Faces’ catalog, showcasing the band’s ability to turn a simple story into a raucous, good-time anthem that perfectly complements their energetic stage presence.
7. “Pool Hall Richard” (1973)
Released in 1973 as a standalone single, “Pool Hall Richard” is a high-octane track that captures The Faces’ electrifying energy and rebellious spirit. Written by the band, the song is an unapologetic anthem about a hustler who rules the pool hall, full of swagger and confidence. What sets “Pool Hall Richard” apart is its raw energy and Ronnie Wood’s searing guitar work, which propels the song forward with relentless intensity. The track opens with a punchy guitar riff, setting the tone for what is essentially a rock ‘n’ roll rollercoaster. Rod Stewart’s vocals are gritty and compelling, matching the hard-driving rhythm of the song. He sings with a sense of bravado and bravura, bringing the character of Richard to life in a way that is both playful and menacing. The track’s energy is contagious, with its infectious rhythm and boisterous guitar solo elevating the song to new heights. The lyrics reflect the world of a confident, almost cocky man who dominates the pool table, and it’s this sense of high-octane charisma that makes “Pool Hall Richard” such a fun, captivating song. Despite being a single rather than part of an album, the track became one of The Faces’ most enduring songs, loved for its raucous, rock-infused sound. With its fast pace, swaggering attitude, and relentless energy, “Pool Hall Richard” remains a standout in the band’s catalog and a reminder of the unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll spirit they embodied. Whether blasting through speakers or bringing down the house at a concert, “Pool Hall Richard” is a thrilling ride that remains one of the band’s most electrifying tracks.
8. “Had Me a Real Good Time” (1971)
“Had Me a Real Good Time,” from The Faces’ 1971 album Long Player, is an exuberant, no-holds-barred anthem that captures the sheer joy of a wild night out. The song is a rowdy celebration of life’s more reckless pleasures—drinking, dancing, and living in the moment. With Rod Stewart’s playful, sly vocals leading the charge, the track exudes a sense of carefree abandon that makes it impossible not to smile. The lyrics are cheeky and full of humor, as they recount a night of debauchery that, in hindsight, was just another part of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. The infectious rhythm, driven by a rollicking piano and bouncy bassline, propels the song forward, creating an atmosphere of constant motion. The song’s upbeat tempo and spirited performance make it a perfect reflection of the band’s party-starting reputation. With a chorus that practically begs to be sung along to, “Had Me a Real Good Time” became an instant crowd favorite at live shows, where it often turned into a full-on sing-along. The track captures the essence of The Faces’ ability to turn even the most mundane experiences—like a night out on the town—into unforgettable rock ‘n’ roll moments. “Had Me a Real Good Time” is a reminder of the band’s exuberant and carefree nature, one that celebrated living life to the fullest without apology. While not necessarily a deep or introspective track, it’s an unforgettable rock anthem that embodies the spirit of The Faces at their finest—wild, fun, and ready to take on the world.
9. “Sweet Lady Mary” (1970)
Taken from The Faces’ 1970 debut album First Step, “Sweet Lady Mary” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases a different side of the band, one that contrasts their usual raucous rock sound. This song, filled with longing and emotional depth, features Rod Stewart’s more vulnerable vocals, as he sings about a lost love. The track’s lyrics, imbued with melancholy, depict a man who is yearning for a woman who has left him, capturing the emotional weight of heartbreak and longing. Musically, “Sweet Lady Mary” is lush and dramatic, with a delicate arrangement that features acoustic guitars, mournful strings, and a haunting piano that help set the emotional tone. The song’s atmospheric arrangement creates a poignant backdrop for Stewart’s soulful delivery, making it one of the band’s most beautiful and intimate tracks. While the song’s sadness contrasts with the upbeat, boisterous nature of much of The Faces’ catalog, “Sweet Lady Mary” stands out as an emotionally charged ballad that highlights the band’s versatility and musical depth. Its lush orchestration and deeply emotional lyrics make it a standout track, showcasing Stewart’s ability to express vulnerability in a way that connects with listeners on a personal level. “Sweet Lady Mary” remains a beloved piece of The Faces’ catalog, a rare moment of emotional depth that demonstrates their capacity for heartfelt storytelling and musical sophistication. Its beautiful arrangement and raw emotionality make it one of the band’s most enduring and cherished tracks.
10. “Glad and Sorry” (1973)
“Glad and Sorry,” from The Faces’ 1973 album Ooh La La, is a heartfelt ballad written by Ronnie Lane, sung with a gentle sincerity that reflects the bittersweet emotions of life’s ups and downs. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of reflection and acceptance, as Lane muses on the idea that, despite the hardships and regrets we encounter, there is still something to be grateful for. The chorus, with its simple but powerful refrain of “I’m glad and sorry,” captures the duality of emotion that comes with navigating the complexities of life. The track is underscored by a subtle but poignant acoustic guitar, accompanied by a gentle piano, creating a reflective, introspective mood. The delicate arrangement allows Lane’s vocals to take center stage, giving the song an intimate, personal quality that resonates with anyone who has ever faced moments of both joy and sorrow. The song’s simplicity is one of its greatest strengths, as it avoids grandiose flourishes in favor of a more restrained, emotionally honest delivery. Though not one of the band’s most well-known tracks, “Glad and Sorry” has become one of their most beloved deep cuts, often regarded as a highlight of their later work. It stands as a testament to The Faces’ ability to craft moments of quiet beauty amidst their more raucous rock anthems. “Glad and Sorry” remains a poignant reflection on the bittersweet nature of life, offering a gentle yet powerful reminder of the importance of embracing both the highs and lows that come our way.
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.
