The Faces, a British rock band formed in 1969, emerged as a dynamic force in the rock and roll scene, bringing together a lineup of exceptionally talented musicians. The band featured several members who would go on to achieve legendary status in the world of rock music, including Rod Stewart (vocals), Ronnie Wood (guitar), Ronnie Lane (bass), Ian McLagan (keyboards), and Kenney Jones (drums).
Known for their energetic and raucous live performances, The Faces infused a blend of rock, blues, and soul into their music. Rod Stewart’s raspy yet soulful vocals, coupled with Ronnie Wood’s expressive guitar work, contributed to the band’s distinctive sound. The Faces produced hits like “Stay with Me,” “Ooh La La,” and “Maggie May,” solidifying their place in the rock pantheon.
Beyond their musical prowess, The Faces were celebrated for their camaraderie and the lively, hedonistic spirit they brought to both their recordings and performances. The band’s chemistry, marked by a combination of raw talent and infectious enthusiasm, left an indelible mark on the rock landscape of the early 1970s. Though their time together was relatively short-lived, The Faces’ legacy endures as a testament to the vibrant and untamed spirit of rock and roll.
1. Stay With Me
“Stay with Me” is a classic rock song by The Faces, released in 1971 as part of their album “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink…To a Blind Horse.” The Faces, featuring the distinctive vocals of Rod Stewart and the guitar work of Ronnie Wood, crafted a timeless rock anthem that showcases their signature blend of blues, soul, and rock elements.
The song opens with a memorable guitar riff, setting the stage for Rod Stewart’s raspy and soulful vocals. “Stay with Me” is renowned for its infectious chorus and powerful instrumentation, including a dynamic saxophone solo by Bobby Keys. The lyrics convey a mixture of desire and desperation, reflecting the raw and honest emotions characteristic of rock music of that era.
“Stay with Me” became one of The Faces’ most successful songs, achieving commercial success and enduring popularity. The song’s anthemic qualities and its ability to capture the essence of rock and roll hedonism contributed to its status as a classic rock staple. It remains a highlight in the catalog of both The Faces and Rod Stewart’s solo career, representing the exuberance and energy of 1970s rock music.
2. Ooh La La
“Ooh La La” is a song by The Faces, released in 1973 as the title track of their final studio album. The Faces, consisting of Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones, created a charming and acoustic-driven piece that reflected their camaraderie and musical craftsmanship.
Written by Ronnie Lane and Ron Wood, “Ooh La La” stands out for its simplicity and heartfelt delivery. The song features Ronnie Wood on lead vocals, a departure from the usual Rod Stewart-led tracks, adding a touch of intimacy. The lyrics tell a poignant story of life’s lessons and the wisdom gained through experience, imparting advice to a younger generation.
The chorus, with the repeated refrain “I wish that I knew what I know now when I was younger,” became a memorable and resonant line, emphasizing the universal theme of reflection and the passage of time.
Despite being one of The Faces’ later releases, “Ooh La La” has endured as one of their most beloved songs. Its enduring popularity is not only a testament to the band’s ability to evolve musically but also to their capacity to convey genuine emotion through their music. The song has been covered by various artists and remains a poignant and timeless gem in the rock and folk-rock genres.
3. Cindy Incidentally
“Cindy Incidentally” is a vibrant and infectious rock song by the British band Faces, released in 1973 as part of their album “Ooh La La.” The track stands out for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and the band’s distinctive blend of rock, blues, and soul influences.
With its rollicking rhythm, infectious guitar riffs, and Rod Stewart’s raspy yet soulful vocals, “Cindy Incidentally” radiates with energy and charisma. The song captures a carefree and playful vibe, inviting listeners to join in the jubilant atmosphere.
Lyrically, the song tells the story of Cindy, a free-spirited and enigmatic woman who captivates those around her. The lyrics celebrate Cindy’s vivacious personality and her ability to light up the lives of those she encounters.
The track is characterized by its lively instrumentation and the band’s chemistry, showcasing their musical synergy and knack for delivering a memorable rock tune. “Cindy Incidentally” became a fan favorite and a staple in Faces’ live performances.
The song’s infectious energy and feel-good vibes have contributed to its enduring popularity, embodying the spirit of ’70s rock and serving as a testament to Faces’ ability to create timeless and enjoyable music.
4. Maybe I’m Amazed
“Maybe I’m Amazed” is a heartfelt and soulful ballad by Paul McCartney, released on his debut solo album, “McCartney,” in 1970. The song is widely regarded as one of McCartney’s most emotionally charged and personal compositions.
Written as a tribute to his wife Linda McCartney, the song expresses Paul’s deep affection and gratitude for Linda’s unwavering support during a tumultuous period, particularly after the breakup of The Beatles. The lyrics convey Paul’s vulnerability and astonishment at finding a love so profound and transformative.
Musically, “Maybe I’m Amazed” showcases McCartney’s remarkable vocal range and his proficiency as a multi-instrumentalist, playing all the instruments on the studio recording. The song’s passionate delivery, heartfelt lyrics, and powerful melody resonate with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
The track has become a classic and a fan favorite, celebrated for its sincerity and raw emotion. Its enduring popularity has led to numerous covers and renditions by various artists, solidifying its place as one of Paul McCartney’s most cherished and iconic songs.
5. Had Me a Real Good Time
“Had Me a Real Good Time” is a rock song by The Faces, released in 1971 as part of their album “Long Player.” The Faces, featuring members like Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones, were known for their energetic and blues-infused rock sound.
“Had Me a Real Good Time” captures the essence of The Faces’ carefree and exuberant spirit. The track is characterized by its infectious groove, upbeat tempo, and the distinctive vocals of Rod Stewart. The lyrics convey a sense of revelry and celebration, reflecting the band’s reputation for creating music that embraced the hedonistic lifestyle of the early 1970s.
With its catchy chorus and rollicking instrumentation, “Had Me a Real Good Time” became a favorite among fans and contributed to The Faces’ reputation as a dynamic live act. The song showcases the band’s ability to blend rock, blues, and a touch of humor into their music, creating a sound that resonated with audiences during the era.
As a quintessential representation of The Faces’ spirited and rollicking approach to rock and roll, “Had Me a Real Good Time” remains a classic in their discography and a reflection of the carefree and vibrant atmosphere of the early ’70s rock scene.
6. Debris
“Debris” is a poignant and emotionally charged song by the British rock band Faces, featured on their 1971 album “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse.” The track stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and Rod Stewart’s soulful vocal delivery, showcasing the band’s ability to create powerful and introspective ballads.
Written by Ronnie Lane, “Debris” reflects on themes of nostalgia, family, and the passage of time. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of longing and reflection, reminiscing about a father’s guidance and the enduring love shared within a family.
Rod Stewart’s emotive vocals add depth and sincerity to the song, capturing the emotional weight of the lyrics. The track’s stripped-down instrumentation and acoustic arrangement contribute to its intimate and introspective atmosphere.
“Debris” is revered for its sincerity and genuine emotion, resonating with listeners through its heartfelt storytelling and soulful delivery. The song has earned praise for its ability to evoke powerful emotions and has become a standout track in Faces’ repertoire, showcasing the band’s versatility in crafting emotionally resonant ballads amidst their more upbeat rock tunes.
7. Pool Hall Richard
“Pool Hall Richard” is a song by Faces, the British rock band known for their energetic and charismatic performances. However, “Pool Hall Richard” is not a song that the Faces officially released. Instead, it is a bootleg recording and not part of the band’s sanctioned discography.
The Faces, featuring members like Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones, were renowned for their rollicking and blues-infused rock sound. They produced hits like “Stay with Me” and “Ooh La La,” capturing the spirit of the early 1970s.
It’s worth noting that “Pool Hall Richard” has gained attention among fans as a lively and unreleased track. The Faces were known for their impromptu and often chaotic recording sessions, which sometimes resulted in unreleased or bootleg material circulating among fans.
While “Pool Hall Richard” may not have the official recognition of some of the Faces’ other tracks, it provides a glimpse into the band’s spontaneous and unbridled musical approach, showcasing their ability to create infectious and unrestrained rock music.
8. You’re So Rude
“You’re So Rude” is a lively and spirited rock song by The Faces, featured on their 1973 album “Ooh La La.” The track is characterized by its energetic rhythm, catchy guitar hooks, and the band’s trademark blend of rock, blues, and soul influences.
With its rollicking tempo and infectious melody, “You’re So Rude” exudes a playful and upbeat vibe. The song’s lyrics playfully tease and poke fun at someone’s behavior, showcasing the band’s sense of humor and playful attitude.
Rod Stewart’s distinctive vocals, accompanied by the band’s tight instrumentation, contribute to the song’s infectious energy and charismatic appeal. The track’s lively performance and catchy chorus make it a standout within The Faces’ discography.
“You’re So Rude” exemplifies the band’s ability to create music that is both musically engaging and filled with a sense of fun and liveliness. Its vibrant and spirited nature remains a favorite among fans of The Faces, embodying the band’s carefree and exuberant musical style.
9. Too Bad
“Too Bad” is a song by The Faces, released in 1971 as part of their third studio album, “A Nod Is as Good as a Wink…To a Blind Horse.” The Faces, featuring members like Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones, were known for their lively and blues-infused rock sound.
“Too Bad” is a quintessential Faces track, characterized by its rollicking energy, catchy hooks, and the distinctive raspy vocals of Rod Stewart. The song exudes a carefree and rebellious spirit, reflecting the band’s reputation for creating music that embraced the free-spirited lifestyle of the early 1970s.
The lyrics of “Too Bad” convey a narrative of defiance and resilience, with Stewart’s charismatic delivery adding a sense of swagger to the track. The infectious chorus and the band’s tight instrumentation contribute to the song’s enduring appeal.
While “Too Bad” may not be as well-known as some of The Faces’ other hits, it remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to blend rock, blues, and a touch of irreverence into their music. The song captures the essence of The Faces’ spirited and unapologetic approach to rock and roll.
10. Three Button Hand Me Down
“Three Button Hand Me Down” is the opening track of the debut album by the British rock band Faces, titled “First Step,” released in 1970. The song introduces listeners to the band’s raw and energetic style, merging elements of rock, blues, and soul.
With its bluesy groove, catchy guitar riffs, and Rod Stewart’s gritty and soulful vocals, “Three Button Hand Me Down” sets the tone for the album. The track exudes a sense of swagger and spontaneity, characteristic of the band’s early sound.
Lyrically, the song depicts a tale of someone who possesses little material wealth but revels in their own unique style and personality. The three-button hand-me-down referenced in the title symbolizes items passed down and cherished, representing a sense of authenticity and character.
“Three Button Hand Me Down” captures Faces’ ability to blend rock ‘n’ roll energy with soulful vibes, showcasing the band’s musical chemistry and Rod Stewart’s charismatic vocals. It serves as an introduction to the band’s dynamic sound and laid the groundwork for their subsequent albums, solidifying Faces’ place in the rock music landscape of the early ’70s.
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.
