Few bands embody the raw energy, soulful swagger, and unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll spirit quite like The Faces. Born out of the ashes of The Small Faces in the late 1960s, this iconic British band, led by the unmistakable voice of Rod Stewart and fueled by the fiery guitar work of Ronnie Wood, became a staple of rock history. Their music is a celebration of life—raucous, heartfelt, and unpretentiously cool. Whether it’s a rollicking anthem that gets the crowd on their feet or a tender ballad that tugs at the heartstrings, The Faces have left an indelible mark on the music world.
In this article, we embark on a journey through their greatest hits, celebrating the top 10 most popular songs ever crafted by this legendary group. Expect to revisit classics that defined a generation and inspired countless artists to follow. From blues-soaked grooves to electrifying rock riffs, each track is a testament to their unmatched chemistry and enduring legacy. So, grab your headphones, crank up the volume, and prepare to rediscover why The Faces remain one of the most beloved bands of all time. Let’s dive into the definitive soundtrack of rebellion, passion, and pure rock magic!
1. Stay with Me (1971)
“Stay with Me” is The Faces at their most unapologetically wild, and it’s no wonder this track became their signature song. Released in 1971 on A Nod’s As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, it’s a swaggering, no-nonsense rock and roll romp that captures the raw energy of the band at their peak. Rod Stewart’s raspy vocals swagger over Ronnie Wood’s punchy, blues-driven guitar riffs, while the rhythm section barrels forward with infectious momentum. Lyrically, the song is cheeky and provocative—a bold tale of a fleeting encounter, delivered with a smirk and a wink. The interplay between Stewart and Wood is electric, with Ian McLagan’s rollicking keys adding a touch of barroom chaos. Kenney Jones anchors it all with thundering drums that never let up. What makes “Stay with Me” so enduring is how effortlessly it blends attitude, humor, and sheer rock bravado. It’s gritty, loose, and full of life—exactly what made The Faces such a beloved band. Even decades later, it still feels like the kind of song you blast at full volume on a night out, windows down, not a care in the world.
2. Ooh La La (1973)
“Ooh La La” is one of those rare songs that feels timeless the moment you hear it. Released in 1973 as the title track of The Faces’ final studio album, it stands apart not just for its acoustic charm but also because it features Ronnie Wood on lead vocals—a rarity in their catalog. The song is gentle, melodic, and bittersweet, telling a simple yet profound story: the lessons learned too late in life. Its lyrics reflect the wisdom passed down from an older generation to the young, warning about the heartbreak and disillusionment that can come with love. There’s a tender weariness in the way Wood sings, perfectly capturing the track’s reflective tone. The chorus—“I wish that I knew what I know now, when I was younger”—has become almost proverbial, resonating with listeners of all ages. Musically, the acoustic guitar and subtle percussion give it a laid-back, folksy vibe that contrasts beautifully with the band’s usual rowdy sound. It’s not just a fan favorite—it’s a quiet, lasting farewell from a band that knew how to party, but also how to pause and reflect when it mattered most.
3. Cindy Incidentally (1973)
“Cindy Incidentally” is pure rock and roll charm, bottled up in a tight, three-minute burst of joy. Released in 1973 on the Ooh La La album, the song captures The Faces in their prime—lively, confident, and effortlessly catchy. Rod Stewart’s vocals have never sounded more spirited, dancing over Ronnie Wood’s infectious guitar riff with a mix of bravado and warmth. The lyrics tell the story of a man urging Cindy to take a leap of faith and escape the dull grind of everyday life with him. It’s romantic in a rough-and-ready way, full of urgency and spontaneity. Ian McLagan’s piano brings a bouncy, almost honky-tonk vibe to the song, adding a playful edge that lifts the whole track. Behind it all, Kenney Jones lays down a solid beat that keeps everything moving forward with an irresistible groove. “Cindy Incidentally” doesn’t try too hard—it doesn’t have to. It’s the sound of a band having fun, and that energy is contagious. Whether you’re dancing around the house or driving with the windows down, this is one of those songs that just makes you feel good.
4. Had Me a Real Good Time (1971)
“Had Me a Real Good Time” is exactly what its title promises—a raucous, freewheeling celebration of letting loose and living in the moment. Released in 1971 on the Long Player album, this track encapsulates everything The Faces were known for: high spirits, loose grooves, and an irresistible sense of fun. From the first pounding piano chords, you know you’re in for a wild ride. Rod Stewart’s vocals are both raspy and exuberant, capturing the essence of a night out that turns into a blurry, unforgettable adventure. The lyrics are a joyous blur of parties, dancing, and not giving a damn, while the band plays with an unhinged looseness that’s somehow tight at the same time. Ronnie Wood’s guitar licks slide in and out of Ian McLagan’s rollicking keys, while the horn section bursts in with unexpected flair. Kenney Jones keeps the tempo locked down with a punchy beat, grounding the chaos with precision. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to pour another drink and dance barefoot in the living room. “Had Me a Real Good Time” is The Faces doing what they did best—bringing the party straight to the speakers.
5. Debris (1971)
“Debris” is a stunning departure from The Faces’ usual rough-and-rowdy style, revealing a deeply emotional and poetic side of the band. Written and sung by Ronnie Lane, this 1971 track from A Nod’s As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse is a gentle, melancholic reflection on family, memory, and the passage of time. Lane’s voice, tender and unpolished, carries the song with a quiet intensity that’s hard to shake. The lyrics tell the story of a son observing his father’s daily struggles, capturing a mix of affection, frustration, and sorrow. There’s a simple, heartbreaking beauty in lines like “I left you on the debris, at the Sunday morning market.” Musically, the arrangement is understated—anchored by an acoustic guitar and subtle piano that let the lyrics take center stage. There’s no flash or bravado here, just raw, honest emotion. “Debris” feels like a conversation you weren’t meant to overhear, full of private pain and quiet dignity. It’s a testament to Ronnie Lane’s songwriting brilliance and emotional depth, and a reminder that The Faces were capable of much more than just boozy anthems—they could also break your heart with a whisper.
6. Three Button Hand Me Down (1970)
“Three Button Hand Me Down,” from The Faces’ debut album First Step (1970), is the band’s early declaration of who they are—stylish, scrappy, and unapologetically themselves. This track oozes cool from start to finish, built on a groovy bassline that just won’t quit and punctuated by Ronnie Wood’s sharp guitar licks. Rod Stewart delivers the lyrics with playful confidence, telling the story of a guy who doesn’t need flashy clothes or fancy labels to make an impression—he rocks a secondhand suit with pride. The song is part social commentary, part tongue-in-cheek swagger, and 100% Faces. It’s got that gritty, blue-collar charm mixed with the kind of self-aware humor that makes it impossible not to smile while listening. Ian McLagan’s keys add a splash of soul, while Kenney Jones keeps the rhythm section tight and energetic. This track doesn’t try to be anything more than it is—and that’s its genius. It’s raw, groovy, and proudly rough around the edges, setting the tone for everything The Faces would go on to do. “Three Button Hand Me Down” might not be their biggest hit, but it’s definitely one of their most character-defining tracks.
7. Glad and Sorry (1973)
“Glad and Sorry” is one of those quietly powerful songs that doesn’t need to shout to make its mark. Featured on the Ooh La La album in 1973, it’s a Ronnie Lane gem—gentle, introspective, and heartbreakingly sincere. Lane handles the vocals here, and his voice is soft, almost vulnerable, giving the song a kind of emotional authenticity that hits home. The lyrics are simple but deeply felt, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of relationships, where love and regret often walk hand-in-hand. “Glad and sorry… happy or sad,” he sings, like someone trying to make peace with the past. The arrangement is beautifully understated—just acoustic guitars, subtle keys, and a rhythm that moves like a slow heartbeat. There’s no pretense, no showmanship—just honest songwriting that speaks directly to the heart. It’s a perfect example of Ronnie Lane’s quiet brilliance, the way he could say so much with so little. While The Faces were known for their big, brash rockers, “Glad and Sorry” shows their softer side—thoughtful, emotional, and deeply human. It’s the kind of song that lingers long after it ends, sticking with you in that quiet space between nostalgia and acceptance.
8. Too Bad (1971)
“Too Bad” is The Faces in full, untamed glory—a rowdy, hard-hitting rocker from the 1971 album A Nod’s As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse. Right from the first few notes, you can feel the rebellious energy pulsing through every chord. It’s the musical equivalent of a smirk and a middle finger. Rod Stewart leads the charge with that raspy, cocky vocal delivery that only he can pull off, singing about skipping school, avoiding work, and living fast without apology. Ronnie Wood’s guitar snarls throughout the track, while the rhythm section pounds away with gritty enthusiasm. It’s not polished—and that’s exactly the point. “Too Bad” captures the sound of youth refusing to grow up, of guys who’d rather drink beer and make noise than settle into anything resembling adulthood. Ian McLagan’s keys add a little unhinged magic, like a barroom piano gone wild. It’s raw, loud, and brimming with attitude. And yet, underneath all the bravado, there’s something undeniably relatable—who hasn’t wanted to blow off responsibilities now and then? “Too Bad” is a love letter to freedom, chaos, and the beautiful mess of being young and reckless.
9. Flying (1970)
“Flying,” from The Faces’ debut album First Step (1970), is an underrated masterpiece—part ballad, part anthem, all heart. It’s one of the band’s more expansive tracks, both in sound and feeling, and it captures a certain kind of emotional uplift that’s hard to pin down. Rod Stewart’s vocals are raw and yearning as he sings about breaking free and chasing something just out of reach. There’s a dreaminess to the lyrics, but it’s not escapism—it’s about hope, transformation, and that desire to rise above it all. The song opens gently, with a spacious, almost meditative feel, and gradually builds into a powerful crescendo. Ronnie Wood’s slide guitar adds a haunting, soulful touch, while the rest of the band slowly joins in, layering sound without ever overwhelming it. It’s a slow burn, but the payoff is huge. “Flying” feels like a journey—musically and emotionally—and by the time it hits its peak, it’s like being swept up in something bigger than yourself. It’s not as raucous as The Faces’ usual fare, but it’s just as powerful, showing that even a band known for wild nights could deliver something transcendent and deeply moving.
10. Love Lives Here (1971)
“Love Lives Here” is one of the most tender and emotional songs in The Faces’ catalog, and it shows just how much depth they had beneath their rough-and-tumble exterior. Released in 1971 on A Nod’s As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, this ballad is quiet, reflective, and achingly beautiful. Rod Stewart delivers one of his most heartfelt performances here, his voice full of longing and regret. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that’s lost its spark, but still carries the echoes of love that once was. “I just can’t believe you’re gone,” he sings, and it hits like a gut punch. The music is understated—soft piano, gentle acoustic guitar, and subtle bass all working together to create a melancholic atmosphere. There’s no flash, no fireworks—just a slow, soulful ache. What’s remarkable about “Love Lives Here” is its emotional honesty. It’s the kind of song that doesn’t try to fix anything or offer easy answers—it just sits with the pain. It’s vulnerable, raw, and incredibly human. For a band known for its wild nights and loud guitars, this track is a quiet triumph, showing that sometimes the softest moments are the most powerful.
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.
