Small Faces were a British rock band that emerged in the mid-1960s and became one of the most influential groups of the mod scene. Formed in 1965 in East London, the original lineup consisted of Steve Marriott (vocals, guitar), Ronnie Lane (bass guitar), Kenney Jones (drums), and Jimmy Winston (keyboards). Winston was later replaced by Ian McLagan, solidifying the classic lineup hailed for their energetic performances and soulful sound.
The band’s name, “Small Faces,” was a reference to the members’ small stature and youthful appearance. Despite their diminutive size, their music was bold and innovative, drawing on a mix of R&B, soul, and rock influences. Small Faces quickly gained a following with their dynamic live shows and catchy, original songs.
Their debut single, “Whatcha Gonna Do About It” (1965), introduced their distinctive sound and marked the beginning of their chart success. The band’s energetic cover of Solomon Burke’s “Sha-La-La-La-Lee” (1966) solidified their place in the British music scene, reaching the UK top 10. Small Faces’ breakthrough hit came with “All or Nothing” (1966), a soulful anthem that remains one of their signature songs.
The band’s success continued with a string of hits, including “My Mind’s Eye” (1966), “I Can’t Make It” (1966), and “Tin Soldier” (1967). Their innovative approach to songwriting and musical arrangements set them apart from their contemporaries, earning them a reputation as one of the most creative bands of the 1960s.
In 1967, Small Faces released their critically acclaimed concept album, “Ogdens’ Nut Gone Flake,” which showcased their musical versatility and experimental spirit. The album’s psychedelic influences and whimsical storytelling captivated audiences and cemented the band’s place in rock history.
Despite their success, internal tensions and disagreements led to the departure of Steve Marriott in 1969. The remaining members regrouped as Faces, with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood joining the lineup. Small Faces’ legacy, however, lives on through their timeless music and enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
List of UK Hits:
1. “Whatcha Gonna Do About It” (1965) – UK#14
2. “Sha-La-La-La-Lee” (1966) – UK#3
3. “Hey Girl” (1966) – UK#10
4. “All or Nothing” (1966) – UK#1
5. “My Mind’s Eye” (1966) – UK#4
6. “I Can’t Make It” (1966) – UK#26
7. “Tin Soldier” (1967) – UK#9
8. “Itchycoo Park” (1967) – UK#3
9. “Lazy Sunday” (1968) – UK#2
10. “The Universal” (1968) – UK#16
List of Albums:
1. “Small Faces” (1966)
2. “From the Beginning” (1967)
3. “Ogdens’ Nut Gone Flake” (1968)
4. “There Are But Four Small Faces” (1968)
5. “The Autumn Stone” (1969)
Awards and Achievements:
– Small Faces were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, recognizing their influence and contribution to rock music.
– The band’s music continues to inspire artists across genres, with their classic songs enduring as timeless examples of British rock at its best.
Small Faces’ enduring popularity and influence speak to the timelessness of their music and the lasting impact they have had on the rock music landscape. Their distinctive sound and innovative approach to songwriting continue to captivate audiences and cement their status as one of the most iconic bands of the 1960s.
