Rod Stewart/Faces

Overview

Rod Stewart, known for his distinctive raspy voice, is a British rock and pop singer with a career spanning over five decades. He became one of the best-selling music artists of all time. The Faces, often referred to as simply 'Faces,' is a British rock band formed in 1969 following the breakup of Small Faces. The group's members included Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones. Originally, Faces was predominantly a British group that emerged from the mod culture of the previous decade and became one of the forming influences of the '70s rock scene. The collaboration between Rod Stewart's career as both a solo artist and a band member of Faces played a crucial role in the landscape of rock music during the 1960s and 1970s.

Formation and Early Years

Faces was formed in 1969 when the remaining members of Small Faces recruited Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood from the Jeff Beck Group. This lineup would become known as Faces, with Stewart as the charismatic frontman, Wood on guitar, Lane on bass, McLagan on keyboards, and Jones on drums. The band's early days were heavily influenced by the rhythm and blues sounds of the time, and their stage shows were characterized by a raucous, boisterous energy that would become their signature style. Their first album 'First Step' was released in 1970 and showcased a raw and energetic sound that combined rock with elements of blues and soul. Despite early challenges and mixed reviews, Faces quickly gained a reputation for their dynamic live performances.

Career Highlights

One of the standout moments in Rod Stewart's career was the release of 'Maggie May' in 1971, which became a massive hit, topping charts worldwide. This success coincided with the Faces' popularity, as the band released several critically acclaimed albums such as 'A Nod Is As Good As a Wink...To a Blind Horse,' which spawned the hit single 'Stay with Me.' Faces were known for their lively stage shows and for producing high-energy rock music that resonated with audiences worldwide. Although Rod Stewart's solo career started to overshadow the band's achievements, the Faces continued to tour and record throughout the early 1970s. Their reputation was built not just on their studio work but their raucous and engaging live performances, which have gone down in rock history as some of the finest of that era.

Musical Style

The musical style of both Rod Stewart and Faces is rooted heavily in rock and roll with a strong blues influence. Stewart's voice added a distinctive, soulful edge to the music, characterized by its hoarse and raspy quality. Faces, as a band, were known for their hard-driving rock anthems, exuberant and often humorous lyrics, and dynamic interplay among the band members during live shows. Their music incorporated elements of country, rhythm and blues, and folk, delivering it with an unpolished, gritty approach that was reflective of their spontaneous and often boisterous performances. Both Stewart and Faces have influenced scores of artists and many subsequent waves of musicians with their musical stylings.

Most Important Albums

Rod Stewart's solo career is marked by several landmark albums, notably 'Every Picture Tells a Story,' which included the iconic track 'Maggie May,' showcasing his distinctive voice and storytelling prowess. Similarly, Faces left a critical mark with 'A Nod Is As Good As a Wink...To a Blind Horse,' an album representing the peak of their creative output, embodying both their signature lively style and tight musicianship. 'Long Player' and 'Ooh La La' are other essential Faces albums that capture the spirit of the band, demonstrating their ability to balance emotive ballads and rollicking rock tunes. These albums continue to be celebrated for their energized performances and songwriting, standing as important contributions to the genre.

Legacy and Influence

Rod Stewart's influence on rock and pop music is vast, with a career that includes a succession of hit singles and albums, earning him a legacy as a music icon. His work has inspired countless musicians and has been praised for its authenticity and heart. Moreover, Faces left an indelible mark on the rock genre, considered one of the defining bands of the 1970s rock scene. Their approach to music – casual, spontaneous, and exuberant – paved the way for other bands to embrace a more relaxed performance style while still delivering high-quality music. Faces' influence can be seen in the music of later rock and roll generations, and their energetic live concerts set a bar for showmanship still referenced by contemporary acts.