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YouTubeFrom East London to the World Stage: The Rise of Kenney Jones and The Faces
Born in 1948 in East London, Kenney Jones grew up amidst the vibrant energy of the British music scene. His early exposure to American R&B and soul music, combined with the burgeoning Mod culture, shaped his rhythmic sensibilities. In 1965, Jones co-founded The Small Faces alongside Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, and Jimmy Winston. This group quickly became emblematic of the Mod movement, delivering hits like “Itchycoo Park” and “Tin Soldier,” which showcased their blend of psychedelic rock and soulful melodies
Transitioning to The Faces: A New Chapter
The departure of Steve Marriott in 1969 marked a turning point. The remaining members—Jones, Lane, and Ian McLagan—joined forces with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, both from the Jeff Beck Group, to form The Faces The Official Faces. This new lineup brought a raw, blues-infused rock sound that resonated with audiences, distinguishing them from their previous incarnation.
Musical Evolution and Success
The Faces quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances and unpretentious style. Albums like “A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse” (1971) and “Ooh La La” (1973) captured their energetic spirit and musical prowess. Kenney Jones’s drumming provided a solid backbone, allowing the band’s dynamic range to flourish .
Rod Stewart’s simultaneous solo career, particularly the success of “Every Picture Tells a Story” and the hit single “Maggie May,” brought additional attention to The Faces . However, this dual focus eventually led to tensions within the group.
The British Invasion's Influence
Kenney Jones and his bandmates were undeniably influenced by the British Invasion—a period marked by the global spread of British rock and pop music. The emphasis on blending American blues with British sensibilities was evident in The Faces’ sound. Jones’s drumming style, characterized by its rhythmic precision and adaptability, reflected the era’s innovative spirit
Life After The Faces
The Faces disbanded in 1975, with members pursuing various projects. Kenney Jones joined The Who, stepping in after the death of drummer Keith Moon. His tenure with The Who further cemented his status as a versatile and respected drummer in the rock world .
Kenney's autobiography
Beyond his musical endeavours, Kenney Jones has been involved in charitable activities and even ventured into the world of polo, founding the Hurtwood Park Polo Club. His autobiography, “Let the Good Times Roll,” offers an in-depth look at his life and career, providing fans with personal insights into the music industry’s golden years.
