Let's delve into a fascinating chapter in music history, where we explore the intriguing story of Rod Stewart and his journey with The Faces. This narrative takes us back to a time when the music industry was undergoing a significant transformation, and we'll uncover some hidden gems along the way.
The Evolution of The Small Faces
The Small Faces, led by the charismatic Steve Marriott, were pioneers of a unique rock and roll sound that defined an era. Their music was an adrenaline shot to Britain's post-war generation, offering a fresh and rebellious take on popular music. However, as time marched on, the band underwent a transformation, rebranding as The Faces and welcoming Rod Stewart into their fold.
A New Era, A New Sound
While this new chapter brought success to Stewart's career, it also marked a departure from the high-energy rock and roll of their earlier days. The Faces embraced a more indulgent and overblown rock sound of the early '70s, which, to some fans, felt like a departure from their beloved roots. Despite this, the band's impact on Stewart's career is undeniable, with hits like 'Maggie May' solidifying his status as a solo star.
The Faces' Short-Lived Success
One might argue that The Faces represented a fleeting moment in music history, a time when creativity took precedence over careerism. Their success was revered, but it was also fleeting, much like the beauty of the '60s itself. The band's struggle to evolve beyond their original sound led to mounting tensions, mirroring the very reasons that Marriott had disbanded The Small Faces in the first place.
Stewart's Solo Venture
Stewart's decision to pursue a solo career might be seen as a natural progression, given the band's inability to move forward. Interestingly, during his early solo days, Stewart still considered himself a member of The Faces, often recruiting them to work on his solo projects. This resulted in a significant portion of his early solo material sounding very much like The Faces, albeit under a different name.
'True Blue': A Hidden Gem
One track that stands out as a highlight of this period is Stewart's 1972 song, 'True Blue'. Co-written with Ronnie Wood, this punchy and boozy number captured the essence of the early Faces sound. Stewart himself acknowledged this, stating that 'True Blue' represented The Faces at their best. The song's creation was a testament to their punk-inspired attitude, with Wood's open-tuned guitar adding to its reckless charm.
A Missed Opportunity
It's a shame that 'True Blue' never made it onto a dedicated Faces album, as it showcases their songwriting prowess at its peak. However, the song's impact on Stewart's solo career cannot be understated, offering a glimpse into the potential of The Faces had they continued down this path. Despite their eventual disbandment in 1975, the legacy of The Faces lives on, and 'True Blue' remains a testament to their talent and influence.
In my opinion, this story highlights the intricate relationship between artists and their bands, and the challenges they face when trying to evolve and adapt to changing musical landscapes. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most enjoyable and authentic moments in music can be found in the hidden gems that never quite fit into the mainstream narrative.
