The Small Faces were a seminal British rock band formed in London in 1965, renowned for their contributions to the mod movement and their distinctive sound that blended rock, pop, and soul. The original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Steve Marriott, bassist Ronnie Lane, keyboardist Ian McLagan, and drummer Kenney Jones. Their music, characterized by Marriott’s powerful vocals and the band’s tight harmonies, quickly garnered them a significant following in the UK.
### Formation and Early Years
The Small Faces emerged from the vibrant London music scene in 1965. Initially, the band was formed by Steve Marriott, who had previously played with the band The Moments, and Ronnie Lane, who was a friend of Marriott’s. They were soon joined by Ian McLagan and Kenney Jones, completing the classic lineup. The band’s name, “Small Faces,” was derived from their youthful appearance and was a nod to the mod culture that celebrated style and fashion.
Their debut single, “Whatcha Gonna Do About It,” released in 1965, showcased their energetic sound and quickly climbed the charts, marking the beginning of their rise to fame. The band’s early years were marked by a series of successful singles and a growing reputation as a live act, particularly in the burgeoning mod scene.
### Key Releases and Milestones
The Small Faces released several influential albums during their career, with their self-titled debut album, “Small Faces,” coming out in 1966. This album included hits like “Sha-La-La-La-Lee” and “Hey Girl,” which helped solidify their place in the British rock landscape. Their follow-up album, “From the Beginning,” released in 1967, further showcased their evolving sound.
One of the band’s most significant milestones came with the release of their critically acclaimed album, “Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake,” in 1968. This concept album featured a mix of musical styles and included the hit single “Lazy Sunday.” The album’s innovative structure and playful lyrics marked a turning point in the band’s artistic direction.
However, tensions within the band began to surface, particularly between Marriott and Lane. In 1969, Marriott left the Small Faces to form the group Humble Pie, leading to the band’s eventual dissolution. They briefly reformed in 1975 with a different lineup, but this incarnation did not achieve the same level of success.
### Legacy and Influence
The Small Faces left an indelible mark on the music world, influencing countless artists and bands that followed. Their unique blend of rock and soul, combined with their mod aesthetic, helped shape the sound of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Bands such as The Faces, which featured former Small Faces members, and later acts like Oasis and Blur have cited them as a major influence.
The band’s music continues to resonate with fans today, and their albums are frequently revisited by new generations of listeners. In recognition of their contributions to music, the Small Faces were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996, cementing their status as icons of British rock history. Despite their relatively short career, the Small Faces remain a pivotal part of the narrative of 1960s rock music, celebrated for their innovation and enduring legacy.