Formation and Early Years
The legendary British rock band, Small Faces, was formed in 1965 in the vibrant city of London. The founding members—Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Jimmy Winston—each brought unique influences and talent to the emerging band. Steve Marriott, known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, and bassist Ronnie Lane were at the heart of the creative efforts, while drummer Kenney Jones and keyboardist Jimmy Winston ensured a solid musical backbone.
Marriott and Lane first encountered each other in a music shop where Marriott worked. They bonded over a shared passion for rhythm and blues, leading to the idea of creating a band. The name “Small Faces” was chosen in reference to the mod fashion trend of the time; “faces” being a slang term for the coolest people in the mod scene, and “small” referring to their diminutive stature.
The band quickly attracted attention within the mod subculture, known for blending gritty British blues with infectious pop melodies. They played their first gigs in local clubs and music venues, rapidly building a devoted following. Early influences like Ray Charles, Muddy Waters, and blues harmonica player Sonny Boy Williamson shaped their distinctive sound.
Their big break came with a contract from Decca Records, a prestigious British label. This partnership brought their music to wider audiences. Their debut single, “Whatcha Gonna Do About It,” released in 1965, climbed the charts and marked their arrival on the mainstream music scene. This success continued with the release of the hit single “Sha-La-La-La-Lee”, which further solidified their position in the British rock scene.
During these formative years, Small Faces carved out a notable niche, combining youthful energy with musical originality. Their early work not only garnered commercial success but also laid the groundwork for their enduring legacy as influential figures in the mod movement and the broader rock genre.
Rise to Stardom and Musical Innovations
During the mid-1960s, the Small Faces emerged as a formidable force in the British rock landscape. The release of their self-titled second album, “Small Faces,” in 1967, marked a pivotal point in their career. This album not only solidified their standing in the music industry but also showcased their remarkable artistic growth. The band’s ability to merge rhythm and blues with psychedelic rock set them apart, captivating both critics and audiences alike.
One of the standout tracks from this period was “Itchycoo Park,” a song that exemplified the Small Faces’ innovative approach to music. The track’s use of flanging, an advanced studio technique at the time, added a distinctive “phasing” sound that became one of its most memorable features. “Itchycoo Park” quickly became a hit, climbing the charts and reinforcing the band’s reputation as pioneers of psychedelic rock.
Their third studio album, “Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake,” released in 1968, further showcased the band’s creative prowess. This concept album was lauded for its intricate arrangements and experimental soundscapes. It included a mixture of rock and whimsical storytelling, particularly in the second half, which featured a narrated fairy tale. Tracks like “Lazy Sunday” and the titular “Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake” highlighted the band’s versatility and their willingness to push musical boundaries.
Moreover, the Small Faces’ energetic live performances contributed significantly to their rise in popularity. Renowned for their electrifying stage presence, the band attracted a large and devoted following. Their concerts were a testament to their technical skill and ability to engage audiences through high-energy shows.
The Small Faces’ journey during this period was characterized by a blend of sophisticated compositions, groundbreaking studio techniques, and dynamic live performances. These elements collectively established them as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their time, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of British rock music.
Challenges and Transformations
The Small Faces, despite their immense talent and initial success, were not immune to the internal challenges that plague many bands. As the 1960s waned, the group experienced significant internal turmoil and lineup changes that would alter their trajectory. The departure of the charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist, Steve Marriott, in 1969, marked a pivotal moment. Frustrated by musical limitations and seeking new creative avenues, Marriott left to form the band Humble Pie, thus leaving a considerable void within Small Faces.
Marriott’s exit prompted the remaining members – Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones – to reconsider their future. In an effort to reinvigorate the band, they made the bold decision to recruit new members. This led to the inclusion of Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, both previously associated with the Jeff Beck Group. Their entry marked the band’s transition into Faces, signifying both a fresh start and a significant transformation in their musical direction.
The newly formed Faces faced their own set of challenges. The band’s sound evolved, moving away from the mod-influenced style of Small Faces to a more robust, blues-rock-oriented vibe. This shift was not without its pressures; the music industry’s expectations and the need to cultivate a new fan base created a demanding environment. Additionally, internal conflicts occasionally surfaced, often exacerbated by the differing artistic visions and personalities within the band.
Despite these obstacles, Faces managed to carve out a distinctive identity. However, the journey was fraught with industry pressures and the inherent complexities of reinventing a band that already had a well-established identity. Their perseverance and adaptability during these transformative years underscore the resilience and versatility of the members. The eventual success of Faces, though met with myriad challenges, stands as a testament to their ability to surmount significant internal and external adversities.
Legacy and Influence
The Small Faces, a seminal British rock band, have left an indelible mark on the music world that extends far beyond their years of active work. Their dynamic sound and innovative musical approaches have continued to inspire successive generations of musicians, ensuring their place in the annals of rock history. Originating as key figures in the mod scene, the Small Faces’ influence has permeated various genres, including punk, Britpop, and indie rock, demonstrating their versatile appeal.
Their legacy is underscored by their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, a testament to their enduring impact on rock music. This recognition solidified their status as trailblazers who reshaped the musical landscape of the 1960s and 1970s. Their pioneering spirit and boundary-pushing creations have earned them numerous accolades, cementing their place among the greats in rock history.
Posthumous recognition has further highlighted the Small Faces’ significance in music culture. Contemporary artists across various genres have paid homage to the band through covers of their seminal tracks and tributes that celebrate their innovative spirit. These modern renditions and acknowledgments help keep the Small Faces’ music alive, introducing their timeless melodies and groundbreaking sound to new audiences. The enduring quality of their work is a testament to their masterful songwriting and the emotional depth of their compositions.
The band’s contribution to music culture is multifaceted, influencing not just sound but also fashion, attitude, and the ethos of artistic experimentation. Their ability to blend soulful melodies with rock edge created a unique auditory experience that continues to resonate. Thus, the Small Faces have not only left a lasting legacy in the music world but have also profoundly shaped the cultural fabric of their time and beyond.
Reflecting on their contribution, it becomes evident that the Small Faces carved out a niche in rock history that remains influential to this day. Through their innovative music, pioneering spirit, and lasting influence, they have ensured that their legacy will be cherished by fans and future musicians alike for generations to come.