Few bands have embodied the raw, unfiltered spirit of rock ‘n’ roll quite like The Faces. Emerging in the early 1970s, this British powerhouse captivated audiences with their electrifying performances, gritty yet soulful sound, and undeniable chemistry. With Rod Stewart’s raspy, unmistakable vocals, Ron Wood’s searing guitar riffs, and the boundless energy of their rhythm section, The Faces wrote their name in the annals of rock history as one of the most influential bands of their era.
But what truly sets The Faces apart is their ability to craft songs that transcend time. Whether it’s a raucous anthem that makes you want to dance like no one’s watching or a heartfelt ballad that tugs at your soul, their music resonates across generations. From the pubs of London to stadiums worldwide, their tracks have become the soundtrack to countless memories, earning them a loyal fanbase that only continues to grow.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular The Faces songs of all time—an unforgettable journey through the hits that defined a band, shaped a genre, and captured the hearts of millions. Get ready to crank up the volume and relive the magic of rock ‘n’ roll at its finest!
1. “Stay With Me” (1971)
“Stay With Me” is arguably The Faces’ signature song, a raucous rock anthem that captures the band’s freewheeling, devil-may-care spirit. Released on their 1971 album A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… To a Blind Horse, this track is pure swagger from start to finish. Co-written by Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, the song kicks off with an instantly recognizable, rollicking guitar riff that sets the stage for a wild ride.
The lyrics tell a tongue-in-cheek story of a fleeting one-night stand, delivered with Rod Stewart’s signature rasp and playful bravado. As the song barrels forward, Ian McLagan’s pounding piano and Kenney Jones’ thunderous drumming drive the energy higher, making it impossible not to move along. The Faces were known for their rowdy, unpredictable live performances, and “Stay With Me” became a staple of their shows, often stretching into jam-heavy, beer-soaked celebrations.
Even decades later, “Stay With Me” remains a rock ‘n’ roll anthem, embodying the carefree, rebellious energy of the 1970s. Whether played in a bar, at a concert, or on a long road trip, this song still has the power to ignite pure rock-and-roll chaos.
2. “Ooh La La” (1973)
Few songs capture the bittersweet passage of time quite like “Ooh La La.” Released in 1973 on the album of the same name, this folk-rock classic is steeped in nostalgia, wisdom, and a touch of regret. Unlike most Faces songs, Rod Stewart doesn’t take the lead here—Ronnie Wood handles the vocals, giving the track an earthy, almost conversational tone that perfectly matches the song’s reflective nature.
The lyrics tell the story of a grandfather giving his grandson advice about love, warning him about the lessons he’ll only truly understand after experiencing them firsthand. The famous line, “I wish that I knew what I know now, when I was younger”, resonates across generations, making the song an anthem for growing older and wiser. The gentle acoustic strumming and simple yet heartfelt melody add to its timeless charm.
Though it wasn’t a massive hit upon release, “Ooh La La” has grown into one of The Faces’ most beloved tracks. It has been used in films, commercials, and even covered by Stewart himself in later years. More than just a song, it’s a poignant reminder of life’s inevitable lessons and the nostalgia that comes with them.
3. “Cindy Incidentally” (1973)
A feel-good rock anthem with an undeniable groove, “Cindy Incidentally” is one of the most infectious tracks from Ooh La La. Blending bluesy piano, a driving rhythm, and Rod Stewart’s charismatic vocal delivery, this song perfectly captures The Faces’ knack for writing both carefree and deeply engaging music.
Lyrically, “Cindy Incidentally” tells the story of a woman being encouraged to break free from a dull existence and embrace adventure. “Oh Cindy, ain’t you glad you’re single? / Oh Cindy, ain’t you glad you’re free?”—the song feels like a joyous celebration of independence, urging listeners to leave their troubles behind and embrace the unknown.
Musically, the song’s upbeat, piano-driven melody makes it one of the band’s most accessible and radio-friendly tunes, yet it still carries that raw, unpolished Faces energy. Ian McLagan’s piano work shines here, adding a rolling, almost honky-tonk feel that gives the track its irresistible charm. Over the years, “Cindy Incidentally” has remained a fan favorite, standing as one of the band’s most uplifting and instantly recognizable songs.
4. “Had Me a Real Good Time” (1971)
The Faces were known for their ability to turn any moment into a party, and “Had Me a Real Good Time” is the perfect example of that spirit. Released on their 1971 album Long Player, this track is an exuberant, booze-soaked celebration of reckless abandon. From its playful opening piano chords to its full-throttle, brass-accented climax, the song feels like a wild night that just keeps escalating.
Rod Stewart delivers the lyrics with a mix of mischievous charm and rock ‘n’ roll bravado, recounting a night of drinking, dancing, and barely making it home in one piece. The song’s loose, jam-session feel captures the essence of The Faces—rowdy, unpolished, and absolutely infectious.
One of the highlights is the inclusion of a horn section, which adds a touch of swing and swagger to the already raucous track. Whether played at a bar, a party, or blasting through a car stereo, “Had Me a Real Good Time” is the ultimate good-time anthem—one that perfectly encapsulates the band’s carefree, rebellious energy.
5. “Flying” (1970)
One of the more introspective songs in The Faces’ catalog, “Flying” is a soaring ballad that beautifully blends folk, rock, and blues influences. Released on their debut album First Step in 1970, the song showcases the band’s softer side, proving that they could do more than just rowdy rockers.
Lyrically, “Flying” is about longing, escapism, and the desire to rise above life’s struggles. Stewart’s vocals are particularly emotive here, delivering each line with a raw sincerity that makes the song feel deeply personal. Ronnie Lane’s harmonies add an extra layer of warmth, while the gradual buildup of the music—starting with gentle acoustic strumming before swelling into a powerful, soulful climax—mirrors the feeling of taking flight.
While The Faces were best known for their raucous energy, “Flying” proved they had a deep, emotional core as well. The song remains a hidden gem in their discography, offering a moment of reflection amid their usual chaos. Over the years, it has been recognized as one of their most underrated masterpieces, a song that truly lifts the listener to another place.
6. “Three Button Hand Me Down” (1970)
“Three Button Hand Me Down” is a swaggering, blues-infused track that closes out First Step with style. With its funky bassline, rollicking piano, and Rod Stewart’s confident delivery, this song oozes personality and charm. While The Faces were often associated with their wild, hard-partying rockers, this track showcases their ability to groove with sophistication and wit.
The lyrics tell the humorous story of a man who doesn’t have much, but what he does have—his three-button hand-me-down suit—he wears with pride. It’s a classic Faces theme: making the best of what you’ve got, delivered with a wink and a smile. Ronnie Lane’s bass playing gives the song a laid-back, almost Motown-like feel, while Ian McLagan’s rolling piano adds to its irresistible bounce.
Over the years, “Three Button Hand Me Down” has become a cult favorite among Faces fans, standing as a testament to the band’s ability to blend humor, soul, and blues into something undeniably catchy. It may not have been a chart-topping hit, but its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics ensure that it remains a standout track in their catalog.
7. “Too Bad” (1971)
A raw, no-nonsense rocker, “Too Bad” captures The Faces at their most rebellious. Featured on A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… To a Blind Horse, this track is an adrenaline-fueled burst of hard rock energy, driven by jagged guitar riffs and Rod Stewart’s signature raspy vocals.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a reckless night gone wrong, with the narrator facing the consequences of his wild lifestyle. Stewart delivers the lines with a mix of defiance and humor, perfectly embodying the band’s carefree attitude. Ronnie Wood’s guitar work is particularly fiery here, with sharp, bluesy licks that cut through the track like a knife. Kenney Jones’ drumming adds a driving urgency, making it feel like the musical equivalent of a bar fight about to break out.
Live performances of “Too Bad” often turned into all-out rock ‘n’ roll spectacles, with the band feeding off the crowd’s energy. It’s the kind of song that demands to be played loud, preferably with a drink in hand. For fans of The Faces’ grittier side, this track is pure, unfiltered rock at its finest.
8. “Pool Hall Richard” (1973)
Released as a standalone single in 1973, “Pool Hall Richard” is a high-energy, blues-infused rocker that showcases The Faces’ knack for storytelling. The song’s protagonist, a cocky pool shark named Richard, hustles his way through the night, only to eventually meet his match. It’s a classic Faces tale—full of swagger, humor, and a touch of mischief.
Musically, the track is a rollicking blend of gritty guitar riffs, boogie-woogie piano, and Stewart’s playful yet powerful vocals. The song’s groove is infectious, making it impossible to sit still while listening. Ronnie Wood’s guitar work is particularly electrifying, filled with fiery licks that give the song an extra layer of attitude.
“Pool Hall Richard” was a hit with fans and remains one of the band’s most beloved deep cuts. Its upbeat, almost cinematic storytelling makes it feel like a barroom tale set to music—one that’s as entertaining as it is musically tight. The song also became a staple of the band’s live shows, where it would often extend into extended jams, further proving The Faces’ ability to turn any song into a party.
9. “Debris” (1971)
One of the most touching and introspective songs in The Faces’ catalog, “Debris” is a deeply personal ballad written and sung by Ronnie Lane. Featured on A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… To a Blind Horse, the song stands in stark contrast to the band’s rowdier anthems, showcasing a softer, more reflective side.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Lane’s relationship with his father, filled with nostalgia and tender memories. Lines like “I left you on the debris / At the Sunday morning market” evoke a sense of longing and appreciation for moments that may have seemed insignificant at the time but gained profound meaning in hindsight.
Musically, the song is simple yet incredibly moving, featuring delicate acoustic guitar work and gentle, understated instrumentation. Lane’s warm, earnest vocal delivery adds to its emotional weight, making it one of the most heartfelt songs in The Faces’ catalog.
Over the years, “Debris” has grown in reputation, becoming one of the band’s most cherished songs. It’s a testament to Lane’s songwriting ability and a reminder that beneath all the boozy anthems, The Faces had a deep well of emotional depth and sincerity.
10. “Silicone Grown” (1973)
Off the Ooh La La album, “Silicone Grown” is a cheeky, high-energy rocker that highlights The Faces’ irreverent sense of humor and signature swagger. With a driving rhythm and playful lyrics, the song takes a jab at the artificial, image-obsessed culture of the time, all while keeping things light and fun.
Rod Stewart delivers the lyrics with his trademark wink-and-a-smile charisma, singing about a woman who has embraced artificial enhancements and the changing times. The song’s rollicking groove, powered by Ronnie Wood’s crunchy guitar riffs and Ian McLagan’s rolling piano, makes it a quintessential Faces track—full of attitude but never taking itself too seriously.
Though it wasn’t one of their biggest hits, “Silicone Grown” remains a fan favorite for its infectious energy and sharp wit. It perfectly encapsulates what made The Faces so unique—raw rock ‘n’ roll, a devil-may-care attitude, and a sense of fun that few other bands could match. Even decades later, the song still sounds fresh, proving that while styles and trends may change, great rock music never goes out of fashion.
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.
