The Faces—a band that epitomized the raw, untamed spirit of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1970s. With their infectious energy, bluesy swagger, and a chemistry that seemed to ignite every stage they graced, The Faces carved out a place in music history that remains legendary to this day. Fronted by the charismatic Rod Stewart and anchored by the unparalleled talents of Ronnie Wood, Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones, this British rock outfit delivered anthems that continue to resonate with fans across generations.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular songs by The Faces—a journey through their timeless catalog of hits that captures the essence of their raucous live performances and studio brilliance. From heartfelt ballads to roaring rock anthems, these tracks serve as a testament to the band’s ability to blend soulful melodies with foot-stomping energy. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer eager to explore their music, this list will take you on a nostalgic ride through some of the greatest moments in rock history. So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and let’s celebrate the enduring legacy of one of rock’s most iconic bands!
1. “Stay With Me” (1971)
“Stay With Me” is one of The Faces’ most explosive and recognizable songs, bursting with energy and swagger. Released on their 1971 album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, the track captures the band’s freewheeling rock ‘n’ roll spirit. From the moment Ronnie Wood’s fiery guitar riff kicks in, the song exudes raw attitude, setting the stage for Rod Stewart’s signature raspy vocals. Lyrically, it tells the tongue-in-cheek story of a one-night stand, with Stewart’s playful delivery adding to its mischievous charm. The track’s pounding piano, rollicking rhythm, and raucous guitar solos make it an irresistible anthem. Over the years, “Stay With Me” has become a staple of classic rock radio, embodying The Faces’ boozy, barroom energy. The song’s infectious groove and call-and-response chorus invite listeners to sing along, making it a fan favorite at live shows. Its impact has transcended generations, influencing countless rock bands with its unfiltered sound and undeniable charisma. Few songs capture the raw, unpolished joy of rock and roll quite like “Stay With Me,” solidifying its place as one of the most iconic tracks in The Faces’ catalog.
2. “Ooh La La” (1973)
“Ooh La La” is a timeless folk-rock gem that stands out as one of The Faces’ most beloved tracks. Released as the title track of their 1973 album, the song features Ronnie Wood on lead vocals instead of Rod Stewart, giving it a unique charm within the band’s catalog. Lyrically, it tells the poignant tale of a grandfather imparting wisdom to his grandson about love and life’s regrets. The wistful chorus, “I wish that I knew what I know now when I was younger,” resonates deeply, making it an anthem for reflection and nostalgia. Musically, the track blends acoustic guitars, steady percussion, and a laid-back rhythm, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Unlike some of The Faces’ rowdier songs, “Ooh La La” embraces a more understated and heartfelt approach, which has only added to its enduring appeal. Despite initially being overlooked, it has since gained recognition as a standout song, covered by artists and used in films, television, and commercials. The song’s simple yet profound message, coupled with its singalong melody, ensures that “Ooh La La” continues to be a favorite for fans of all ages, capturing the bittersweet beauty of hindsight.
3. “Cindy Incidentally” (1973)
“Cindy Incidentally” is a shining example of The Faces’ ability to fuse rock with a soulful groove. Released in 1973 on their album Ooh La La, the song is an upbeat, feel-good tune with an infectious melody and a sense of effortless cool. The track kicks off with a catchy piano riff, setting the stage for Rod Stewart’s charismatic vocals. Lyrically, it tells the story of a woman breaking free from a troubled past, with the narrator encouraging her to move on and embrace a brighter future. The song’s laid-back yet uplifting nature makes it a perfect road trip anthem, capturing a sense of freedom and new beginnings. Kenney Jones’ tight drumming and Ronnie Wood’s bluesy guitar work add a rhythmic drive that keeps the song moving with an irresistible groove. Though it might not have the rowdy energy of some of The Faces’ more raucous tracks, “Cindy Incidentally” showcases their ability to craft a polished, radio-friendly rock song without losing their trademark charm. Over the years, it has remained a fan favorite, proving that The Faces were capable of delivering both raucous anthems and breezy, feel-good classics.
4. “Had Me a Real Good Time” (1971)
“Had Me a Real Good Time” is a raucous, celebratory track that perfectly encapsulates The Faces’ reputation as one of rock’s most fun-loving bands. Released on their 1971 album Long Player, the song is an exuberant ode to wild nights, carefree living, and reveling in the moment. From the opening piano chords to the rollicking rhythm section, every element of the track radiates energy and mischief. Rod Stewart delivers the lyrics with his signature raspy charm, recounting a night of indulgence with a mix of humor and nostalgia. The song’s dynamic structure features brass accompaniments, soulful backing vocals, and bluesy guitar licks courtesy of Ronnie Wood, giving it a loose, jam-like quality. What sets “Had Me a Real Good Time” apart is its infectious sense of camaraderie—it feels less like a performance and more like an invitation to join in the party. Despite its playful tone, the song also carries a hint of wistfulness, as if acknowledging that good times are fleeting. Whether blasting from a bar jukebox or performed live with beer-soaked enthusiasm, this track remains a quintessential Faces anthem, embodying their boisterous, free-spirited ethos.
5. “Maybe I’m Amazed” (1971)
The Faces’ rendition of “Maybe I’m Amazed” offers a raw and soulful take on Paul McCartney’s beloved classic. Featured on their 1971 album Long Player, this version strips back some of the polished production of the original and replaces it with a rougher, more impassioned feel. Rod Stewart’s distinctive voice injects a new layer of grit and vulnerability into the song, making it sound less like a grand declaration of love and more like an emotional outpouring. Backed by the band’s bluesy instrumentation, the arrangement has an organic, almost live feel, with Ian McLagan’s piano playing a central role in setting the song’s intimate tone. While McCartney’s original was a studio masterpiece, The Faces’ cover thrives on its rawness, capturing the spontaneity and unrefined energy that defined their sound. This rendition showcases the band’s ability to balance tenderness with their signature rough-around-the-edges style. Though they were best known for their raucous rock anthems, “Maybe I’m Amazed” proves that The Faces could also bring heart and soul to a ballad. Their version remains a hidden gem in their catalog, offering a fresh and powerful take on an already iconic song.
6. “Debris” (1971)
“Debris” is one of the most tender and introspective songs in The Faces’ catalog, highlighting Ronnie Lane’s songwriting brilliance. Featured on A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971), this deeply personal track stands in stark contrast to the band’s more raucous anthems. With Lane on lead vocals instead of Rod Stewart, “Debris” carries a different emotional weight, as his gentle, wistful delivery adds to the song’s melancholic beauty. Lyrically, it tells a nostalgic story of Lane’s relationship with his father, reflecting on moments from childhood and the fleeting nature of time. The simple yet evocative melody, built around acoustic guitar and subtle slide guitar accents, reinforces the song’s heartfelt atmosphere. Unlike The Faces’ usual freewheeling, barroom-rock approach, “Debris” is quiet and introspective, proving that the band could excel at more delicate and poetic material. Its understated beauty has made it a favorite among longtime fans, and it remains one of the most emotionally resonant tracks in The Faces’ discography. Decades later, “Debris” still holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the softer, more sentimental side of rock music.
7. “Miss Judy’s Farm” (1971)
Kicking off A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, “Miss Judy’s Farm” is a bluesy, hard-driving rock song that perfectly captures The Faces’ raw energy and swagger. The track begins with a gritty, chugging guitar riff from Ronnie Wood, setting the tone for the rebellious tale that follows. Rod Stewart’s raspy vocals bring the lyrics to life, telling the story of a laborer working under the rule of the domineering Miss Judy. With its cheeky lyrics and high-octane delivery, the song plays like a blues-infused working-class anthem, dripping with attitude and rebellion. The tight interplay between Wood’s lead guitar and Ian McLagan’s rollicking keyboard work adds an extra layer of excitement, while Kenney Jones’ drumming keeps the momentum surging forward. Like many Faces songs, “Miss Judy’s Farm” feels loose and spontaneous, as if the band is having a blast in the studio. It’s a song built for the stage, and it remained a highlight of their live performances. Combining grit, groove, and a touch of humor, “Miss Judy’s Farm” is a perfect example of why The Faces were one of the most electrifying rock bands of their era.
8. “Richmond” (1971)
“Richmond” is a beautifully understated track from Long Player (1971), showcasing Ronnie Lane’s signature blend of folk and rock influences. A stark contrast to The Faces’ more raucous, hard-partying anthems, this song carries a reflective and almost pastoral quality. Lane’s delicate vocals give the song an intimate feel, making it stand out in the band’s catalog. Lyrically, “Richmond” paints a vivid picture of a place that holds personal significance, possibly a nostalgic nod to a town or a moment in time that Lane cherished. The acoustic-driven melody, coupled with subtle piano flourishes and warm backing instrumentation, adds to its organic, heartfelt nature. While Rod Stewart often took center stage in The Faces, Lane’s contributions provided a softer, more contemplative counterbalance, and “Richmond” is a perfect example of his ability to craft emotionally rich songs. The song’s stripped-down arrangement allows the lyrics and melody to shine, making it a hidden gem for those who appreciate the quieter moments in rock music. Over the years, “Richmond” has earned its place as one of The Faces’ most touching and underrated tracks, proving that their musical depth extended far beyond their rowdy reputation.
9. “Too Bad” (1971)
“Too Bad” is a high-energy rocker from A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971) that perfectly encapsulates The Faces’ signature blend of grit, groove, and unfiltered rock-and-roll attitude. From the moment Ronnie Wood’s crunchy guitar riff kicks in, the song exudes a raw, almost reckless energy. Rod Stewart’s vocals are at their swaggering best, delivering lyrics that reflect a rebellious, devil-may-care attitude about a love affair gone wrong. The band’s chemistry is undeniable, with Kenney Jones’ pounding drums driving the track forward, while Ian McLagan’s rollicking keyboard work adds an extra layer of fun. The Faces were known for their loose, jam-like approach to recording, and “Too Bad” captures that spirit perfectly—it feels as if the band is playing just for the sheer joy of it. This song was a staple in their live performances, where its fast-paced, raucous energy would ignite crowds. Though it may not be as widely recognized as some of their bigger hits, “Too Bad” is a testament to The Faces’ ability to deliver pure, unfiltered rock-and-roll with a mischievous grin. It remains a favorite for those who love their music loud, raw, and full of attitude.
10. “Love Lives Here” (1971)
Closing out A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971), “Love Lives Here” is one of The Faces’ most soulful and emotionally rich ballads. Unlike their more raucous anthems, this song slows things down, allowing Rod Stewart to deliver one of his most heartfelt performances with a sense of longing and reflection. The lyrics speak of nostalgia and lost love, evoking a bittersweet sentiment that contrasts with the band’s usual carefree attitude. The gentle, rolling piano intro sets a contemplative mood, while the warm guitar tones and subtle rhythm section provide a beautifully restrained backdrop. The song’s melody is simple yet deeply affecting, and Stewart’s raspy yet tender vocals add a layer of raw emotion that makes it resonate deeply with listeners. “Love Lives Here” showcases a more introspective side of The Faces, proving that their music wasn’t just about wild nights and rock-and-roll bravado—they could also deliver moments of genuine emotional weight. Though it may not be as well-known as their bigger hits, the song remains a fan favorite for those who appreciate the more soulful, reflective side of the band’s catalog.
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.
