Ronnie Wood is a name that resonates with classic rock fans, primarily for his role as a guitarist in the Rolling Stones. Yet, there’s more to Wood’s story than this famous affiliation. His career spans several decades, marked by collaborations with numerous bands and a distinct style that has influenced the genre.
In this article, we delve into the less explored aspects of Wood’s musical journey. From his early beginnings to his significant yet often understated contributions to classic rock, we aim to shed light on the breadth of his impact. Wood’s story is not just about fame; it’s about a lasting legacy in the music world.
Early Life and Beginnings
Ronnie Wood’s journey into the world of music began in Hillingdon, a suburb of London, where he was born in 1947. Growing up in a family with a strong musical background, Wood was naturally drawn to music from a young age. His brothers played in various bands, instilling in him a passion for the art.
Wood’s first serious foray into music came with his participation in the band The Birds, formed in the early 1960s. While The Birds never achieved major commercial success, they were significant in the London R&B scene and provided Wood a platform to hone his skills. His time with The Birds was crucial in shaping his early musical style, focusing primarily on rhythm and blues.
Following The Birds, Wood’s talent led him to join the Jeff Beck Group in the late 1960s. This period was pivotal in his career as he transitioned from bass to guitar. Playing alongside Jeff Beck, one of the era’s guitar virtuosos, Wood expanded his musical repertoire and began to establish himself as a versatile and talented musician. The Jeff Beck Group, with its heavier and more experimental sound, gave Wood exposure to a wider audience and a taste of international success.
These early experiences were instrumental in laying the foundation for Wood’s later accomplishments. They not only sharpened his musical abilities but also introduced him to the network and dynamics of the rock music scene, setting the stage for his subsequent rise to fame with the Faces and, later, the Rolling Stones. This phase of Wood’s career, often overshadowed by his later fame, highlights his early dedication and adaptability as a musician, qualities that would become hallmarks of his long and varied career in rock music.
Breakthrough with the Faces
Ronnie Wood’s ascent in the world of rock music took a significant leap forward with his involvement in the band Faces. Formed in 1969, after the disbandment of the Small Faces, Faces consisted of Wood, Rod Stewart, Ian McLagan, Kenny Jones, and Ronnie Lane. This band marked a defining moment in Wood’s career, showcasing his ability to blend seamlessly with other prominent musicians.
With Faces, Wood’s role was not just as a guitarist but also as a key contributor to the band’s distinctive sound. His guitar work, characterized by a raw and expressive style, became a staple in the band’s performances. Faces were known for their energetic live shows and a mix of hard rock, blues, and folk music, elements that Wood played a significant part in shaping.
During his time with Faces, Wood also began to reveal his potential as a songwriter. He co-wrote several of the band’s hits, demonstrating his growing prowess in crafting songs that resonated with their audience. This period saw Wood evolving from a talented musician to a well-rounded artist, capable of leaving his mark on the music he played.
Faces enjoyed considerable success in the early 70s, with albums like “A Nod’s as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse” achieving critical and commercial success. However, despite the fame and the increasing popularity, Wood’s contributions often remained overshadowed by the more flamboyant presence of Rod Stewart. This underappreciation is a recurring theme in Wood’s career, where his versatility and talent have often been overlooked in the glare of his more famous bandmates.
Wood’s tenure with Faces was instrumental in his growth as a musician. It was during this period that he developed the distinctive style and musical sensibilities that would later become integral to the sound of the Rolling Stones. Faces not only provided Wood with a platform to showcase his talents but also played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of rock music in the 70s.
Joining the Rolling Stones
Ronnie Wood’s career took a monumental turn in 1975 when he joined the Rolling Stones, one of the most iconic bands in rock history. This move was a significant milestone, marking his transition from a member of the popular band Faces to a key figure in a world-renowned rock and roll institution.
Transition to the Rolling Stones in 1975
Wood was initially invited to join the Rolling Stones as a temporary replacement for Mick Taylor, who had left the band. His debut with the Stones was met with critical acclaim, as he seamlessly integrated into the group’s dynamic. His ability to adapt quickly and his compatibility with Keith Richards, both musically and personally, played a crucial role in his eventual permanent position in the band.
Wood’s Unique Contributions to the Band’s Sound
In the Rolling Stones, Wood’s influence extended beyond just his guitar skills. His versatile playing style complemented Richards’ work, creating a dual guitar dynamic that became a signature element of the Stones’ sound. Wood’s slide guitar technique, in particular, added a new dimension to the band’s music, enriching their sound palette.
Underrated Role in the Band’s Continued Success
Despite his significant contributions, Wood’s role in the Rolling Stones is often underrated. He brought stability and fresh energy to the band during a time of transition, helping to sustain their success through the decades. His collaborative nature and willingness to adapt his style to fit the band’s evolving music have been crucial in maintaining the Stones’ iconic status.
Throughout his time with the Rolling Stones, Wood has not only proven his prowess as a guitarist but also as a valuable team player whose contributions, though sometimes underappreciated, have been essential to the band’s longevity and continued relevance in the music world.
Style and Musical Influence
Ronnie Wood’s style and influence in music, particularly classic rock, are characterized by his unique blend of artistry and technical skill. His approach to guitar playing has left a distinct mark on the genre and inspired a generation of musicians.
Analysis of Wood’s Guitar Style
Wood’s guitar style is known for its versatility and expressiveness. He seamlessly blends rhythm and lead guitar techniques, a skill that has become a signature element of his playing. His use of slide guitar, in particular, stands out for its fluidity and soulful sound, adding a distinctive character to the songs he plays. Wood’s ability to adapt to different musical styles, from bluesy riffs to hard rock solos, showcases his comprehensive understanding of music and his broad range as a guitarist.
His Influence on Other Guitarists and Musicians
Wood’s influence extends beyond his technical abilities. His approach to music, which emphasizes feel and emotion over technical perfection, has inspired many guitarists and musicians. This more intuitive, less formulaic approach to playing has been influential in shaping the sound of classic rock and in encouraging musicians to prioritize the emotional impact of their playing.
Signature Songs and Solos
Throughout his career, Wood has contributed to numerous iconic songs and memorable solos that have become staples in classic rock. His work with the Rolling Stones, including tracks like “Miss You,” “Start Me Up,” and “Mixed Emotions,” features some of his most notable contributions. These songs not only highlight his skill as a guitarist but also his ability to integrate his style into the broader context of the band’s music.
Ronnie Wood’s style and influence in music underscore his status as an integral figure in the world of classic rock. His unique approach to guitar playing, marked by a blend of technical skill and expressive artistry, continues to resonate with musicians and fans alike.
Wood’s Versatility Beyond Guitar
Ronnie Wood’s talents extend far beyond his prowess as a guitarist, showcasing his versatility as a musician and an artist. His multifaceted skills have significantly contributed to his enduring presence in the music industry.
Multi-instrumental Talents
Apart from his acclaimed guitar skills, Wood is also proficient in playing other instruments. He has demonstrated his ability on the bass guitar, particularly during his early years with the Jeff Beck Group and Faces. Additionally, Wood has played the harmonica, lap steel, and even drums on various recordings, showcasing his broad musical abilities. This versatility has allowed him to contribute to the Rolling Stones and other projects in a more diverse and dynamic way.
Songwriting and Vocal Contributions
Wood’s contributions are not limited to instrumental prowess; he has also been involved in songwriting. He has co-written several songs for the Rolling Stones and other bands, displaying his talent in crafting lyrics and melodies. Furthermore, Wood has occasionally taken on the role of a vocalist, providing lead and backing vocals on some tracks. His vocal work, though not as widely recognized as his guitar playing, adds another layer to his artistic capabilities.
Artistic Pursuits Outside of Music
Beyond music, Wood has an established career as an artist. He is a trained painter, and his artwork, which includes paintings, drawings, and prints, has been exhibited worldwide. His artistic style, much like his music, is expressive and vibrant, often featuring subjects related to his life in music, including portraits of fellow musicians and scenes from his tours. This artistic talent further highlights Wood’s creative versatility and his ability to express himself through multiple mediums.
Ronnie Wood’s versatility, spanning various instruments, songwriting, vocals, and visual art, paints a picture of an artist with a deep well of creativity. His contributions to the music industry go beyond his role as a guitarist, marking him as a multifaceted and talented individual whose artistic impact is manifold.
Legacy in Classic Rock
Ronnie Wood’s legacy in the realm of classic rock is both profound and multifaceted. His contributions over several decades have cemented his status as a pivotal figure in the genre.
Wood’s Impact on the Genre
Wood’s impact on classic rock can be seen through his innovative guitar techniques, his role in shaping the sounds of pivotal bands like the Rolling Stones and Faces, and his influence on emerging musicians. His ability to blend different styles, from rhythm and blues to hard rock, has enriched the genre, offering a unique sound that has become synonymous with classic rock. Wood’s career exemplifies the evolution of rock music through the late 20th century, reflecting the changes and trends within the genre.
Recognition and Awards
Despite being underrated at times, Wood has received numerous accolades and recognition for his work. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, once with the Rolling Stones and once with Faces, underlining his significant contributions to the music industry. These accolades serve as a testament to his skills as a musician and his influence on the landscape of rock music.
The Underappreciation of His Role in Shaping Classic Rock
While Wood’s contributions to classic rock are undeniable, there has often been a tendency to underappreciated his role, especially when compared to some of his more prominent bandmates. This under-recognition overlooks the subtlety and depth of his contributions, both as a musician and as a creative force. Wood’s versatility, adaptability, and consistent, high-quality performances have been instrumental in the enduring success of the bands he has been part of.
Ronnie Wood’s legacy in classic rock is marked by his exceptional musicianship, his innovative approach to guitar playing, and his influence on the genre as a whole. His career, spanning several decades and multiple influential bands, showcases a journey of enduring impact and artistic expression. Wood’s role in shaping the sound and direction of classic rock, while sometimes underrated, is an integral part of the genre’s history.
Conclusion
Ronnie Wood’s journey through the world of classic rock is a testament to his talent and influence. His contributions, from his early days in smaller bands to his major role in the Rolling Stones, have significantly shaped the genre. While often underrated, Wood’s skills as a guitarist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist have left an indelible mark on the music industry. His legacy is a reminder of the importance of recognizing the quieter yet impactful forces in music history.