Ronnie Wood, the legendary guitarist for the Rolling Stones, has confirmed he is collaborating on new songs with Rod Stewart. The pair, who were bandmates in the 1960s group Faces, are developing new material with a potential reunion in mind. This news comes as the Rolling Stones prepare for a new album release.
Key Takeaways
- Ronnie Wood and Rod Stewart are creating new songs.
- This collaboration could lead to a Faces reunion.
- Wood discussed this on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs.
- The Rolling Stones are also finalizing a new album.
Wood and Stewart Revive Musical Partnership
Ronnie Wood shared details of his musical partnership with Rod Stewart during an interview on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs. He stated that their dynamic remains largely unchanged since the Faces first formed in 1969. The only notable difference, according to Wood, is Stewart's preference for not having amplifiers on stage.
The Faces were a prominent band in the late 1960s, formed by members of the Small Faces after their singer, Steve Marriott, departed. Their most recognized hit was the song Stay With Me. Wood and Stewart recently performed this track together during Stewart's set at the Glastonbury festival, sparking interest in their renewed collaboration.
"We would love to do that. We've got these songs that we're working on from back in the day, but it's hard to make our times tally," Wood told Desert Island Discs host Lauren Laverne.
Faces Fact
The Faces formed in 1969. Their lineup included Ronnie Wood, Rod Stewart, Kenney Jones, Ian McLagan, and Ronnie Lane. Their biggest hit, Stay With Me, was released in 1971.
New Songs and Future Plans
Wood emphasized that the duo has a substantial collection of new music in progress. He noted that scheduling remains the main challenge to completing these tracks, given their individual commitments. However, he expressed confidence that they will finish the songs when studio time becomes available.
"When we do get a chance to get in the studio again, we will finish off these songs. We've got a good body of songs going," Wood explained. This suggests that fans could anticipate new material from the pair in the future, possibly under the Faces banner.
Recalling Early Faces Tours
During the interview, Wood also shared stories from the Faces' early touring days. These anecdotes highlighted the band's rebellious reputation, which once led to them being prohibited from staying at Holiday Inn hotels. To circumvent this ban, the band would often book rooms under the name of another famous rock group, Fleetwood Mac.
The Faces' Legacy
The Faces are recognized for their energetic live performances and blend of rock, blues, and R&B. They influenced many punk and new wave bands. Despite their short initial run, their music continues to resonate with audiences, particularly through the solo careers of Wood and Stewart.
Wood recounted a specific incident in Detroit. A hotel employee, Ramona, reported the band to the police after they rearranged all their hotel room furniture into the corridor. When the hotel manager arrived, he found a fully furnished room in the hallway, complete with pictures and settees.
The manager's reaction was memorable: "It's very nice but it better not be here when I come back," he reportedly said before leaving. This story illustrates the band's playful and often disruptive behavior during their peak touring years.
The Rolling Stones' Upcoming Album
Beyond his work with Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood confirmed that the Rolling Stones are also close to releasing a new album. He stated that the band consistently strives to improve their music, and they continue to achieve this goal.
"We're always raising the bar, and miraculously, the bar keeps going up and up," Wood said. The band has been working on the new material and is currently in the mixing phase. Wood anticipates the album will be released either by the end of the current year or early next year.
Rolling Stones Releases
The Rolling Stones have released dozens of studio albums throughout their career. Their most recent studio album, Hackney Diamonds, was released in 2023. This album marked their first collection of new original material in 18 years.
Wood's Journey to Sobriety
Wood also spoke openly about his personal journey to sobriety. He shared that he gave up drugs and alcohol in 2010. He acknowledged that this process required significant support from others.
He described a period of "white knuckling" where he needed encouragement and guidance. Finding the path to recovery and maintaining it was difficult. Wood highlighted the importance of support from his bandmates, specifically mentioning Mick Jagger.
"And encouragement and a hand on the shoulder just before going on stage, like from Mick [Jagger] or something, saying you'll be OK, and to let it go. And OK, let's go for it," Wood recalled. This support played a crucial role in his ability to stay sober and continue performing.
Key Dates
- Faces formed: 1969
- Wood became sober: 2010
- Rolling Stones' Hackney Diamonds released: 2023
- New Stones album expected: Late 2024 / Early 2025
Wood's candid discussion about his sobriety provides insight into the challenges faced by musicians in the industry and the importance of a strong support system. His continued work with both Rod Stewart and the Rolling Stones demonstrates his enduring passion for music.