Stay With Me

The song "Stay With Me" by Faces, featured on their 1971 album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink... to a Blind Horse, is a raucous rock anthem that captures the band’s gritty, barroom energy. One piece of trivia comes from a social media post by @DarrellCBassist on X, where Ronnie Wood, the song’s co-writer and guitarist, shared insights about crafting the track with lead singer Rod Stewart. Wood described their writing process as spontaneous, fueled by their shared love for bluesy riffs and cheeky lyrics, with the song’s raw edge reflecting their live performances. The track became Faces’ only US Top 40 hit, peaking at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to its infectious groove and Stewart’s swaggering vocals. Another tidbit from a 2015 web article highlights the album’s unique packaging: the original LP included a provocative poster with images of the band partying with groupies, which some parents confiscated from young fans due to its risqué content.

Another story about "Stay With Me" ties to its recording at Olympic Sound Studios in London, as noted in a 2019 vinyl enthusiast’s blog. The band, known for their hard-drinking lifestyle, reportedly kept the sessions loose and lively, with producer Glyn Johns balancing their chaotic energy to capture the song’s spontaneous feel. This track, blending hard rock with R&B influences, showcased bassist Ronnie Lane’s underrated contributions, though he often took a backseat to Stewart and Wood’s star power. A post on X by @MusicJim2 in 2023 emphasized the song’s enduring appeal, calling it a defining moment from the album that solidified Faces’ reputation as a premier live act. The song’s lyrics, with their playful nod to a one-night stand, stirred minor controversy but resonated with fans for their unapologetic honesty.

Faces formed in 1969 from the ashes of the Small Faces after lead singer Steve Marriott left to start Humble Pie. The remaining members—Ronnie Lane (bass), Ian McLagan (keyboards), and Kenney Jones (drums)—recruited Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, both fresh from The Jeff Beck Group, to create a new lineup. Initially, the band struggled to find their footing, as Stewart’s burgeoning solo career, particularly with his hit "Maggie May," often overshadowed their efforts. Their early albums, First Step (1970) and Long Player (1971), showed promise but lacked cohesion. By the time they recorded A Nod Is As Good As a Wink..., the band had hit their stride, blending blues, rock, and folk with a rollicking, pub-friendly vibe. Their chemistry, honed through relentless touring, made them a favorite among rock fans, though internal tensions and Stewart’s solo success led to their breakup in 1975.

Faces’ official website, thefaces.com, offers a deep dive into their discography and history, while their Facebook page keeps fans updated on archival releases and tributes. On Instagram, @thefacesofficial shares vintage photos and clips, celebrating the band’s legacy. Their X account, @FacesOfficial, engages with fans through posts about their influence on modern rock. Fans can also connect on the Faces Fan Club Facebook group, a vibrant community sharing memorabilia and stories. Additionally, the fan-run site the-faces.com provides detailed biographies, discographies, and rare photos, keeping the band’s spirit alive for Zoo Freaks and beyond.