In the vibrant tapestry of rock history, few bands have left a mark as indelible as The Faces. Emerging from the British music scene in the early 1970s, this iconic group, fronted by the charismatic Rod Stewart and featuring the extraordinary talents of Ronnie Wood, delivered a raw, unfiltered sound that captured the spirit of an era. Their music, a fusion of rock, blues, and a hint of soul, resonated with audiences worldwide, leading to a legacy that continues to inspire new generations.
From raucous anthems that ignite a party to soulful ballads that tug at the heartstrings, The Faces crafted songs that are not just listened to but felt. Their ability to blend catchy hooks with heartfelt lyrics made them a favorite among fans and critics alike. In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular songs by The Faces, exploring the stories behind these timeless tracks and their impact on music. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to their sound, get ready to revisit the unforgettable tunes that solidified The Faces as rock legends. Join us as we celebrate the musical journey of one of the most beloved bands in history!
1. Stay With Me (1971)
“Stay With Me,” released in 1971, stands as one of The Faces’ most unforgettable rock anthems. Bursting with gritty swagger and unfiltered attitude, the track embodies the raw energy and rebellious spirit that defined the band. Rod Stewart delivers the lead vocals with magnetic confidence, drawing listeners in with his signature rasp and playful charm. The song tells the story of a fleeting romantic encounter, full of cheeky bravado and unapologetic honesty. Backed by Ron Wood’s fiery guitar licks and a rhythm section that grooves hard, “Stay With Me” quickly becomes a musical rollercoaster—rowdy, raucous, and irresistibly catchy.
What sets the song apart is its ability to balance loose rock ‘n’ roll chaos with tight musicianship. There’s a sense that the band is teetering on the edge of losing control, yet they’re locked in perfectly with each other, feeding off the energy of the moment. Whether blasted in a bar, a car ride, or a live show, the track captures the spirit of an era where rock was bold, messy, and full of life. It’s a classic that continues to resonate, reminding us that some of the best songs are the ones that don’t take themselves too seriously—but still hit you hard.
2. Ooh La La (1973)
Released in 1973, “Ooh La La” is one of The Faces’ most endearing songs, marked by its nostalgic tone and sing-along charm. Though often associated with Rod Stewart, it’s actually Ronnie Wood who takes the lead vocal—a rare but memorable moment that gives the song a warm, earthy feel. The lyrics tell the bittersweet story of lessons learned through love and regret, particularly from an older man reflecting on the naivety of his youth. Lines like “I wish that I knew what I know now when I was younger” strike a universal chord, making the track resonate deeply with listeners of all ages.
Musically, the song is simple but effective. A jangly acoustic guitar rhythm anchors the melody, supported by a gentle drumbeat and melodic bass line. There’s something disarming about its simplicity—it feels like a fireside conversation set to music. Over the years, “Ooh La La” has grown in cultural stature, appearing in films and commercials, and becoming a go-to track for moments of introspection. It’s not just one of The Faces’ most beloved tunes—it’s a gentle anthem for anyone who’s looked back on life with a mix of fondness and a hint of regret.
3. Maggie May (1971)
“Maggie May,” a standout from 1971, blurs the lines between The Faces and Rod Stewart’s solo career, but its spirit is undeniably rooted in the band’s signature sound. This semi-autobiographical tale of a young man’s emotionally complicated affair with an older woman struck a chord around the world and became one of the most defining songs of the era. The track begins with a charming mandolin intro, setting the stage for Stewart’s emotionally raw, gravel-toned vocals.
Lyrically, “Maggie May” is deeply personal yet universally relatable. The story unfolds with aching honesty, capturing the naiveté of youth and the emotional confusion of being used in a relationship that once felt like love. The blend of folk-rock and a touch of blues gives the track a layered texture that enhances its storytelling. The Faces’ instrumentation—particularly Ronnie Lane’s melodic bass and Ronnie Wood’s tasteful guitar work—brings a warmth that makes the song feel both intimate and expansive.
Despite—or perhaps because of—its confessional tone, “Maggie May” became a massive hit. It’s a song that doesn’t just tell a story; it invites listeners to reflect on their own complicated pasts. Its emotional resonance and timeless appeal make it a crown jewel in both Stewart’s and The Faces’ catalogs.
4. Too Bad (1971)
“Too Bad,” released in 1971, is pure, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll swagger. From the moment the track kicks in, The Faces launch into high gear with pounding drums, gritty guitar riffs, and Rod Stewart’s unmistakable voice laced with attitude. The song thrives on its reckless energy, capturing the feel of a wild night out or the raw spontaneity of a band living in the moment. It’s loud, fast, and unapologetically brash—everything you’d expect from The Faces at their most playful and defiant.
The lyrics are rebellious in nature, echoing themes of youthful defiance, rule-breaking, and the thrill of living on the edge. There’s a sense of humor to it all, too—an acknowledgment that maybe the behavior isn’t admirable, but it sure is fun. Ronnie Wood’s guitar work is both punchy and melodic, while Kenney Jones on drums keeps the whole thing barreling forward like a runaway train.
What makes “Too Bad” so compelling is that it doesn’t try to be polished or profound. Instead, it captures a moment—raucous, messy, and full of life. It’s a celebration of imperfection, a musical middle finger to convention, and a reminder that sometimes rock ‘n’ roll is best when it’s just a little bit bad.
5. Pool Hall Richard (1973)
“Pool Hall Richard,” released in 1973, is a high-energy rocker that shows The Faces at their most playful and exuberant. From its very first beat, the song explodes with vibrant rhythm and blues-inspired rock. It’s driven by a boisterous guitar riff, thumping bass, and Rod Stewart’s cheeky, full-throttle vocals. Lyrically, it tells the tale of a streetwise hustler, a character who plays pool as well as he plays people—a lovable rogue with a mischievous grin.
The song’s narrative style adds a cinematic flair. You can picture “Richard” weaving through smoky halls, charming his way through life’s chaos. The Faces use this character-driven approach to deliver not just a catchy tune but also a snapshot of working-class bravado and youthful swagger. Ronnie Wood’s guitar playing is fiery and loose, injecting the track with a feeling of spontaneity, while the rhythm section keeps it grounded in a tight groove.
“Pool Hall Richard” became a fan favorite for good reason—it’s fast, fun, and completely unpretentious. It captures the essence of The Faces’ sound: rock music that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still hits hard. It’s a dancefloor-ready anthem that packs grit, humor, and attitude into every second.
6. Cindy Incidentally (1973)
Released in 1973, “Cindy Incidentally” is a beautifully understated song that shows a more tender and introspective side of The Faces. Unlike some of their harder-hitting rock tracks, this one leans into melodic storytelling and emotional nuance. The song follows a bittersweet narrative, detailing a goodbye between two lovers—“Cindy” being the central character—delivered with a blend of affection, resignation, and sorrow.
Rod Stewart’s vocal performance is especially touching here. His gravelly voice conveys a sense of vulnerability that adds weight to the lyrics. There’s no bitterness in the farewell, just a sense of melancholy acceptance. The instrumentation, with its laid-back piano, acoustic guitar, and subtle slide guitar accents, creates a warm, almost country-rock atmosphere that complements the song’s reflective tone.
“Cindy Incidentally” feels personal and relatable, offering a moment of quiet within The Faces’ typically rowdy catalog. It’s a reminder of their range—not just as rockers but as storytellers capable of real emotional depth. While it might not have the wild flair of their more raucous hits, its heartfelt message and graceful delivery make it a standout. It’s a tender farewell wrapped in soulful melodies, leaving a lasting impression of love and loss.
7. Gasoline Alley (1970)
“Gasoline Alley,” released in 1970, is a song steeped in nostalgia and longing, showcasing The Faces’ ability to blend soul, folk, and rock into something uniquely heartfelt. Though often associated with Rod Stewart’s solo work, the track’s spirit and musicianship are inseparable from the band’s early sound. It’s a song about home, memory, and the tug of the past—where the old neighborhood and youthful days are remembered through a romantic lens.
Rod Stewart delivers the vocals with remarkable sincerity, his raspy tone adding a raw, emotional edge to the lyrics. The song’s arrangement is understated yet rich, with acoustic guitars, organ swells, and subtle percussion creating a warm, reflective backdrop. Ronnie Lane’s bass work and Ron Wood’s guitar lines shine gently, supporting the emotional weight of the story without overpowering it.
“Gasoline Alley” resonates because it captures a feeling so many understand: the ache to return to a place that may no longer exist as you remember it. It’s less about geography and more about the moments and people that shaped you. This track stands as an early sign of the storytelling depth The Faces—and Stewart himself—were capable of, combining introspection with timeless melody.
8. Had Me a Real Good Time (1971)
“Had Me a Real Good Time” is The Faces at their most celebratory. Released in 1971, the track is a wild, rollicking ride through the joy and chaos of a night out. With its boozy piano, charging rhythm section, and Rod Stewart’s rollicking vocal delivery, the song feels like a party captured on tape. It’s loud, fast, and gloriously messy—exactly the kind of tune you’d want blasting from the speakers after midnight.
Lyrically, the song paints a vivid picture of spontaneous fun and living in the moment. There’s no moral or deep message here—just pure enjoyment. The Faces excel at this kind of high-octane rock ‘n’ roll, and “Had Me a Real Good Time” is a prime example of their chemistry. Ronnie Wood’s guitar solos are loose and expressive, while Ian McLagan’s rollicking piano adds an old-school rock ‘n’ roll flavor that gives the track even more flair.
This song isn’t just about music—it’s about mood. It perfectly captures the ethos of the early ’70s rock scene: carefree, rebellious, and overflowing with spirit. It reminds listeners that some of the most memorable moments in life are the ones that don’t make much sense—but feel unforgettable.
9. I Know I’m Losing You (1971)
Originally a Temptations hit, “I Know I’m Losing You” got a fiery reimagining in 1971 when Rod Stewart and The Faces put their bluesy, rock-infused spin on it. This version transforms the soul classic into a gritty, emotionally raw rock anthem. From the opening moments, the band dives deep into the tension of the lyrics, building a brooding groove that perfectly suits the theme of heartbreak and paranoia.
Rod Stewart’s vocal delivery is electric—brimming with urgency, desperation, and anger. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; he lives them. The Faces back him with tight, aggressive playing. The drums pound with precision, the guitars wail with frustration, and the bass drives the song forward with relentless force. It’s a masterclass in turning emotional turmoil into something cathartic and powerful.
The Faces’ version of “I Know I’m Losing You” stands apart because it doesn’t mimic the original—it redefines it. The soulful roots remain, but the added rock edge turns it into something visceral and explosive. It’s a bold interpretation that pays homage to the song’s origins while showcasing the band’s ability to stretch genre boundaries and make something old feel thrillingly new.
10. Every Picture Tells a Story (1971)
“Every Picture Tells a Story” is more than just a song—it’s an experience. Released in 1971, the title track from Rod Stewart’s landmark album (featuring key contributions from The Faces) is a whirlwind narrative set to a folk-rock backdrop. It’s part travelogue, part confessional, and part chaotic anthem that captures the restless spirit of youth and the search for meaning in a fast-moving world.
The song’s structure is unconventional, with its shifting tempos and spoken-sung verses, but it’s that looseness that gives it charm. Stewart recounts his adventures through Europe and China, weaving tales of romance, regret, and personal growth. His voice, raw and unpolished, fits the storytelling perfectly—it feels like a conversation at a bar that suddenly turns into a philosophical reflection.
Musically, the band delivers a dynamic performance. From the jangling acoustic guitar to the bursts of electric energy, every element supports the shifting emotions of the story. “Every Picture Tells a Story” captures the essence of The Faces’ style: heartfelt, unfiltered, and full of life. It’s a song that reminds listeners that everyone has a story—and that the journey, messy as it may be, is often the most unforgettable part.
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.
