Faces

Initially pressings of the groups recordings actually carried the name Small Faces, this was later corrected to Faces, but at no time did any release feature the group as The Faces. Here's a detailed look at their history:

Formation:

Small Faces: The band started as Small Faces in 1965, with members Steve Marriott (vocals, guitar), Ronnie Lane (bass, vocals), Kenney Jones (drums), and Jimmy Winston (keyboards). Winston was soon replaced by Ian McLagan.

Success with Small Faces: They had hits like "Itchycoo Park," "All or Nothing," and "Tin Soldier," blending R&B, psychedelic rock, and mod culture.

Transition to Faces:

Marriott's Departure: In 1969, Steve Marriott left Small Faces to form Humble Pie, leaving the band without a lead singer.

New Beginnings: The remaining members recruited Rod Stewart, who was then in the Jeff Beck Group, and Ronnie Wood, from the Jeff Beck Group as well, to join. This new lineup renamed the band "Faces."

The Faces Era:

First Album - "First Step" (1970): Although not a commercial blockbuster, it set the stage with tracks like "Flying" showing their fusion of rock, folk, and blues.

Breakthrough - "Long Player" (1971): This album included their first major hit, "Had Me a Real Good Time," and showed a more cohesive band sound.

Peak - "A Nod Is As Good As a Wink... to a Blind Horse" (1971): Featuring "Stay with Me," one of their most famous songs, this album solidified their reputation. The album's raw, live feel captured the essence of Faces' performances.

"Ooh La La" (1973): Their final studio album before disbanding, it included the title track, which became a classic. However, this album also reflected internal tensions, particularly around songwriting credits.

Characteristics:

Musical Style: Faces were known for their rough, energetic rock 'n' roll, imbued with a sense of fun, camaraderie, and authenticity. Their music often had a spontaneous, live feel, capturing the spirit of British pub rock with influences from American R&B.

Live Performances: They were renowned for their chaotic, boozy live shows, where the band's chemistry was palpable. Their concerts were legendary for their spontaneity and the bond between band members and fans.

Band Dynamics and Decline:

Internal Struggles: The band's decline was partly due to Rod Stewart's burgeoning solo career, which led to tensions over commitment and songwriting credits. Stewart's success often overshadowed the band's work.

Departures: Ronnie Lane left in 1973, followed by the band's dissolution in 1975. Tetsu Yamauchi replaced Lane for a brief period.

Legacy and Reunions:

Influence: Faces left a legacy of rock music that was heartfelt, unpretentious, and exuberantly live. They influenced many bands and artists with their approach to music and performance.

Reunions: There have been intermittent reunions, most notably in 1986 for "Live Aid" and later for various charity events or one-off shows. However, a full reunion with all original members never materialized due to the death of Ronnie Lane in 1997 and other members pursuing different paths.

Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Small Faces/Faces were inducted in 2012, acknowledging their contributions to rock music.

Faces, with their blend of rock, folk, and blues, coupled with a charismatic live presence, remain a beloved part of rock history, epitomizing the spirit of '70s rock 'n' roll.