Faces emerged from the ashes of the Small Faces when key members joined forces with new vocalists, reshaping the lineup and sound. The story of who is the lead singer of Faces depends on which era and which tracks listeners focus on most.
Rod Stewart became the dominant voice as the band transitioned into Faces, defining their rock and roll direction in the early albums. While other members contributed vocals, Stewart carried the main melodic responsibility on the group’s most recognizable hits.
Band Formation and Lineup Origins
Faces formed after the dissolution of the Small Faces, uniting former members with new collaborators. The evolving roster created questions about who held primary vocal duties across different lineups.
Understanding the transition from Small Faces to Faces clarifies why Rod Stewart is most frequently named as the lead singer. The shift in personnel directly influenced the band’s vocal identity.
Rod Stewart Role as Lead Vocalist
Rod Stewart anchored the band’s breakthrough period, delivering powerful performances on albums and tours. His distinctive voice became synonymous with the Faces brand for many fans.
| Era | Lead Vocalist | Key Albums | Signature Songs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Faces (1965–1969) | Steve Marriott | Small Faces, Ogdens’ Nut Gone Flake | Lazy Sunday, Afterglow of Your Love |
| Transition (1969–1970) | Rod Stewart & Ronnie Wood | First Step | Shake |
| Faces Peak (1970–1975) | Rod Stewart | Long Player, A Nod Is As Good As a Wink..., Ooh La La | Stay with Me, You Could Make Me a Woman, Stay With Me |
| Later Faces (1975–1977) | Ronnie Wood | Rough Mix, No Anchovies, Please | Pool Hall Richard, You’re So Fine |
Ronnie Wood and Other Contributors
Ronnie Wood stepped into a larger vocal role in the later years, sharing responsibilities when Stewart pursued solo projects. His contributions shaped the band’s R&B-inflected sound toward its final phase.
Other members, including Ronnie Lane and Kenney Jones, occasionally sang on album tracks and live sets, providing texture and harmonies that complemented the main frontmen.
Musical Style and Influence
Faces blended rock, rhythm and blues, and hard-driving boogie, with Rod Stewart’s gritty delivery at the center of that fusion. The band’s swagger and songwriting depth influenced generations of guitar-driven rock groups.
The vocal dynamics between Stewart and Wood created a dual personality in the band’s later work, balancing melodic accessibility with raw, barroom energy in their arrangements.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Rod Stewart is widely recognized as the primary lead singer of Faces during their most successful period.
- The band’s vocal responsibilities shifted over time, with Ronnie Wood taking a larger role in later years.
- Understanding the lineup changes helps clarify questions about who is the lead singer of faces across different discography.
- Listening chronologically through each era reveals the evolving vocal dynamics within the band.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who sings the classic Faces hits like Stay with Me?
Rod Stewart sings the classic Faces hits like Stay with Me, which defined the band’s peak commercial period.
Did Ronnie Wood ever take over as lead singer of Faces?
Ronnie Wood took on more lead vocal duties in the mid-1970s, especially on later albums when Rod Stewart was focused on his solo career.
Was Steve Marriott ever the lead singer of Faces?
Steve Marriott was never the lead singer of Faces, as he remained with the Small Faces and did not join the band after their transformation.
Did Rod Stewart sing on every Faces album?
Rod Stewart sang on most Faces albums during their commercial peak, but he reduced his vocal presence on later releases as other members stepped forward.