Ronnie Wood collaborates with Rod Stewart on new music
Ronnie Wood, the iconic guitarist of the Rolling Stones, recently revealed that he and Sir Rod Stewart are collaborating on new songs as they potentially gear up for a Faces reunion. In an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, Wood mentioned that despite the passage of time since the 1960s, the creative spark between him and Stewart remained undiminished. The only noticeable change is Stewart’s aversion to having amps on stage.
The Faces, originally formed in 1969 after singer Steve Marriott’s departure from the Small Faces, have left an indelible mark on rock music. Their hit song “Stay With Me” solidified their place in rock history. Wood and Stewart even performed this classic tune during Stewart’s set at the Glastonbury festival earlier this year. Wood expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of working on new material, reminiscing about older songs they had yet to finish. Despite the challenges of aligning schedules, he remains hopeful that they can bring these songs to fruition.
Wood shared amusing anecdotes from the Faces’ heyday, including their misadventures while on tour that led to them being banned from Holiday Inn hotels. He recounted how they resorted to booking rooms under pseudonyms like Fleetwood Mac due to their reputation for rockstar excess. One memorable incident in Detroit involved Ramona, the hotel staff member who reported them to the police for rearranging the furniture in the corridor. These escapades offered a glimpse into the wild and rebellious spirit of the band.
As Wood reflected on the evolving landscape of music production, he highlighted the Rolling Stones’ commitment to excellence as they prepare to release a new album. With a discography spanning over a dozen studio albums, the band’s dedication to raising the bar remains unwavering. Wood teased fans with the confirmation of a forthcoming album in the mixing stage, hinting at a release by the end of the year or early next year.
In a poignant revelation, Wood opened up about his journey to sobriety, disclosing that he gave up drugs and alcohol in 2010 with the support of friends and bandmates. Overcoming the challenges of addiction required perseverance and encouragement from those closest to him. The camaraderie within the band, particularly gestures of solidarity from Mick Jagger, provided vital reassurance during moments of doubt.
As fans eagerly anticipate the prospect of new music from the Rolling Stones and a potential Faces reunion, Ronnie Wood’s insights offer a glimpse into the enduring passion and creativity of rock legends. With a wealth of shared history and untapped musical potential, the collaboration between Wood and Stewart promises to reignite the magic of their iconic partnership.