Imagine a music world without the Faces—a band that seamlessly blended rock, soul, and blues, leaving an indelible mark on music history. But here’s where it gets fascinating: their formation was sparked by a surprising twist in the story of another iconic band, the Small Faces. And this is the part most people miss—how Ronnie Wood and Rod Stewart stepped in to turn a potential tragedy into musical triumph.
Ronnie Wood, the legendary Rolling Stones guitarist, recently unveiled Fearless: Anthology 1965-2025, a sprawling compilation celebrating his six-decade career. Alongside this release, Wood has been treating fans to a series of social media videos, where he shares intimate stories from his musical journey. One such tale reveals how he and Rod Stewart became the architects of the Faces after Small Faces frontman Steve Marriott abruptly quit to form Humble Pie with Peter Frampton.
But let’s rewind a bit. Before joining the Rolling Stones in 1975, Wood was already a musical force, co-founding the Faces alongside Stewart. The duo had been touring the U.S. with the Jeff Beck Group in 1968, and their go-to album during that time? The Small Faces’ Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake. Fast forward to 1969, and Wood recalls the shock of learning Marriott was leaving the band. “It felt like a criminal shame,” Wood reminisces. “I thought, ‘We can’t let the Small Faces just disappear.’”
Here’s the controversial part: While Wood’s narrative focuses on saving the Small Faces’ legacy, it’s worth noting that the Jeff Beck Group—which included both Wood and Stewart—was also on the brink of collapse at the time. Was this a case of musicians seizing an opportunity, or a genuine rescue mission? Either way, Wood took action. He tracked down Small Faces bassist Ronnie Lane, asking, “What’s next for you guys? Need a hand?” Lane’s response? “Absolutely. Let’s make something happen.”
The rest, as they say, is history. Wood joined Lane, keyboardist Ian McLagan, and drummer Kenney Jones in Bermondsey, London, where the Rolling Stones’ rehearsal space became their creative playground. “We jammed with our backs to each other, playing The Meters and Booker T. & the MG’s,” Wood recalls. “The chemistry was electric.” But one question loomed: who would sing? That answer came months later when Rod Stewart joined the fold. With Stewart and Wood towering over their bandmates—a stark contrast to the Small Faces’ namesake stature—the group dropped “Small” from their name, and the Faces were born.
Wood’s Fearless compilation, released in September, is a testament to his enduring legacy. It features highlights from his time with The Creation, the Faces, and the Rolling Stones, culminating in four brand-new solo tracks. But as we celebrate Wood’s career, it’s impossible not to wonder: Would the Faces have existed without Marriott’s departure? And more importantly, what other unsung moments in music history have shaped the bands we love today?
Let’s keep the conversation going—what’s your take on the Faces’ formation? A stroke of luck, a calculated move, or something in between? Share your thoughts below!
