In the realm of rock and roll, where larger-than-life frontmen reign supreme, Rod Stewart stands out as a true party animal. His records are a testament to his unyielding enthusiasm for life, and even in the early days with The Jeff Beck Group, he brought a unique brand of levity to the stage. However, beneath the surface, Stewart harbored a desire to break free from the constraints of his band, The Faces, and explore new horizons as a solo artist. This internal conflict is the crux of the story, and it's one that many artists can relate to.
The Faces had the potential to be one of the greatest bands of their generation, and they certainly knew how to make boozy hard rock. Yet, Stewart recognized that he had more to offer as a solo artist, and his solo debut, 'Maggie May', was just around the corner. The tension between his desire for solo success and his commitment to the band is palpable, and it's a struggle that many musicians face.
One song that exemplifies this tension is 'Ooh La La'. According to Ian McLagan, Stewart was initially less than enthusiastic about the song, stating, 'Don’t like it!'. He continued to express his dislike for 25 years until he finally recorded a version. Stewart's reluctance stems from the song's key, which he felt was not suited to his voice. This is a common dilemma for artists, who often find themselves forced to sing songs that are not ideally suited to their vocal range or style.
The Faces, however, proved that they didn't need their star singer on every track. Stewart was the glue that held them together, but when stripped of production glitz, they were simply a great rock and roll band. This is a crucial point, as it highlights the importance of band dynamics and the ability to adapt and evolve as a group.
Ronnie Wood, the guitarist, stepped up to the plate and sang 'Ooh La La' beautifully. While he may not be the greatest singer in the world, his performance on this song showcases his versatility and ability to contribute in different ways. It's a testament to the power of collaboration and the ability to find new roles within a band.
In my opinion, the story of 'Ooh La La' is a microcosm of the creative process and the challenges that artists face. It's a reminder that even the most successful bands can struggle with internal dynamics, and that evolution and adaptation are essential for long-term success. From my perspective, it's a fascinating insight into the human side of music, and a reminder that every artist has their own unique journey to navigate.
