The unassuming heart of Small Faces and Faces, whose warm, wandering songwriting turned into some of Britain's most beloved rock records.
MOODS · warm · nostalgic · earthy · wistful · rootsy · understated · soulful · rambling · folk-tinged · gently melancholic
BIOGRAPHY
Ronnie Lane (1946-1997) was the bassist and co-founder of Small Faces, formed in 1965 after he met Steve Marriott. Together they wrote hits like "All or Nothing," "Itchycoo Park," and "Lazy Sunday." When Marriott left in 1968, Lane joined Ian McLagan and Kenny Jones with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood to form Faces, another critically and commercially successful band.
In 1973 Lane left Faces to form Slim Chance, releasing three albums that showcased his gentler, more expansive songwriting, including hits "How Come" and "The Poacher." His 1974 tour, The Passing Show, became rock folklore for its disorganised, circus-like ambition. After financial troubles, he collaborated with Pete Townshend on 1977's Rough Mix, a career highlight. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1977, Lane later moved to the US, continuing to write and record until his final performance in 1992.
WHY THEY'RE COOL
Ronnie Lane was the quiet architect behind two of Britain's most beloved rock bands, co-writing Small Faces classics before helping steer Faces through its boozy, brilliant run. When he stepped away from the spotlight to lead Slim Chance, he revealed a softer, folk-leaning songwriting voice, best heard on the collaborative high point Rough Mix with Pete Townshend. His legacy endures through tributes from artists like Ocean Colour Scene and Paul Weller, testament to the lasting warmth of his songwriting even as multiple sclerosis curtailed his later career.
GEORGE'S PLAYS
First time on the station.
PLAYED ON WOKE1
