Rod Stewart & Ronnie Wood: The Band They Left In '69

Hey guys, let's dive into a bit of rock history that's super interesting for all you music buffs out there. Ever wondered what Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood were up to before they became household names with the Rolling Stones and as solo artists? Well, in 1969, a pretty big move happened: they both left a band to join the legendary Small Faces. The question on everyone's mind is, which band did Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood leave to make this pivotal career shift? It's a fascinating story that highlights how musical paths intertwine and how sometimes, leaving one project can lead to something even bigger. This wasn't just a casual hop; it was a significant moment that reshaped the landscape of British rock music. Stick around as we unravel this piece of rock and roll lore, exploring the band they departed and the new journey they embarked upon. You might be surprised by the details and how this event paved the way for future supergroups. It’s a classic example of how the music industry is a constant evolution, with artists moving, collaborating, and creating new sounds that define eras. So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s get into the juicy details of this iconic lineup change that shook up the music world.

So, the band that Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood left in 1969 to join the Small Faces was none other than The Jeff Beck Group. Yeah, you heard that right! The Jeff Beck Group was a pretty solid outfit in its own right, featuring a young Rod Stewart on vocals and Ronnie Wood on guitar, alongside the formidable guitar virtuoso Jeff Beck himself. They released a couple of albums, including Truth in 1968 and Beck-Ola in 1969, which are now considered classics of the blues-rock genre. Truth even featured a young Nicky Hopkins on keyboards and, get this, Jimmy Page on bass for some tracks! It was a seriously talented lineup, churning out some gritty, powerful music. However, despite the obvious musical chemistry and talent, the band experienced internal friction and disagreements. Beck, being the dominant musical force, often clashed with the others over creative direction and the band's overall sound. This tension, coupled with a desire for new creative outlets, ultimately led to the departure of both Stewart and Wood. They were looking for a more stable and perhaps more commercially oriented project, and the opportunity to join the Small Faces, who were already established and had a strong following, seemed like the perfect next step. It’s a classic case of artistic differences and the pursuit of new horizons that drives musicians to make bold decisions. The departure wasn't necessarily a reflection of failure for The Jeff Beck Group, but rather a sign of the dynamic and often volatile nature of the music business. Artists are always searching for the right fit, the right sound, and the right collaborators to express their vision. The legacy of The Jeff Beck Group, though relatively short-lived in that particular iteration, is undeniable, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be celebrated by fans of blues and hard rock.

Now, let's talk about the band they joined: the Small Faces. This was a big deal, guys! The Small Faces were already a well-established and highly respected mod-rock band in the UK. They were known for their catchy tunes, sharp fashion sense, and energetic live performances. Hits like "Itchycoo Park," "Lazy Sunday," and "All or Nothing" had cemented their status as pop-rock darlings. However, by 1969, the original lineup had undergone some changes. Steve Marriott, the charismatic frontman and guitarist, was looking to inject new energy and a harder edge into the band's sound. When Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood became available after leaving The Jeff Beck Group, the stars aligned. Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane (bass), Ian McLagan (keyboards), and Kenney Jones (drums) were the core of the Small Faces. The addition of Rod Stewart on vocals and Ronnie Wood on guitar created a new supergroup-in-the-making, which was eventually renamed The Faces. This renaming was crucial because it signaled a shift in the band's identity and musical direction. It wasn't just the Small Faces anymore; it was a broader, more rock-oriented entity. The blend of Marriott's raw vocal power and Stewart's distinctive gravelly tone, combined with the dual guitar attack of Wood and Marriott (and later, contributions from other members), forged a unique sound. The addition of Ronnie Wood, known for his bluesy guitar licks and R&B influences, perfectly complemented the existing members. They were looking for a sound that was a bit more raw, a bit more bluesy, and a bit more rock 'n' roll. The Faces, under this new formation, went on to release iconic albums such as The First Step (1970), Long Player (1971), A Nod Is as Good as a Wink... to a Blind Horse (1971), and Ooh La La (1973). These albums are packed with soulful ballads, raucous rockers, and that signature Faces sound – a perfect blend of blues, rock, and a touch of country swagger. They became legendary for their wild stage shows and their notorious off-stage antics, embodying the rock and roll lifestyle to its fullest. The chemistry between Stewart, Wood, Marriott, Lane, McLagan, and Jones was undeniable, creating music that was both critically acclaimed and immensely popular. It was a true meeting of musical titans, a merger that would leave an indelible mark on rock music history.

So, to recap, the band Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood left in 1969 was The Jeff Beck Group. They then went on to join forces with members of the Small Faces, forming a new iteration of the band that was eventually known as The Faces. This transition marked a significant turning point in their careers, propelling them into a new phase of musical exploration and success. The Jeff Beck Group was instrumental in shaping early blues-rock, and their contributions are still highly regarded. However, the chemistry that formed The Faces was truly special. It brought together distinct talents and personalities, creating a sound that was raw, authentic, and undeniably captivating. Rod Stewart’s unique vocal style, Ronnie Wood’s versatile guitar playing, Steve Marriott’s soulful rasp, Ronnie Lane’s melodic basslines, Ian McLagan’s masterful keyboard work, and Kenney Jones’s solid drumming – it was a recipe for rock and roll magic. The Faces weren't just a band; they were a phenomenon. They personified the rock and roll spirit of the late 60s and early 70s – a blend of musical prowess, rebellious attitude, and a whole lot of fun. Their music, characterized by its soulful delivery, bluesy undertones, and infectious energy, resonated with a generation. Albums like A Nod Is as Good as a Wink... to a Blind Horse are considered masterpieces, showcasing their ability to craft both introspective ballads and high-octane rockers. The band's legacy extends beyond their recorded music; their influence on subsequent generations of musicians is profound. They set a standard for what a live rock show could be – unpretentious, energetic, and full of genuine passion. Even though The Faces eventually disbanded, the impact of their music and their collective spirit continues to be felt. Rod Stewart went on to achieve massive global superstardom as a solo artist, and Ronnie Wood found his permanent home in The Rolling Stones, continuing a career that spans decades. Yet, the period with The Faces remains a cherished chapter for many fans and critics alike, a testament to a time when musical giants collaborated to create something truly extraordinary. It's a perfect example of how one band's end can be another's beginning, leading to the creation of legendary music that stands the test of time. The story of Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood leaving The Jeff Beck Group to form The Faces is a classic tale of ambition, collaboration, and the ever-evolving nature of the rock music scene. It's a narrative that continues to inspire and fascinate, reminding us of the power of music to bring people together and create something truly timeless.