Ronnie Wood began his professional music career in 1964 as a lead guitarist with the London-based rhythm and blues band the Birds. Over the following decades, his career spanned multiple groups, including the Jeff Beck Group and Faces, before he secured his long-term position as an official member of the Rolling Stones in 1976.
Early Career and The Jeff Beck Group
After his tenure with the Birds and a brief period with the Creation, Wood joined the Jeff Beck Group in 1967. Originally hired as a rhythm guitarist, he transitioned to bass later that year. He contributed to the albums Truth and Beck-Ola while touring extensively alongside lead vocalist Rod Stewart. This period concluded in 1969 when the group disbanded.
Formation of Faces
Following the departure of Steve Marriott from the Small Faces, Wood began collaborating with the remaining members. In 1969, he and Rod Stewart joined forces with Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones to form Faces. The band achieved success in the United Kingdom and Europe throughout the early 1970s, releasing four studio albums. Wood contributed vocals, harmonica, and guitar while co-writing tracks such as Stay With Me and Ooh La La.
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Wood launched his solo career in 1974 with the album I've Got My Own Album to Do, which featured contributions from Keith Richards and Mick Jagger. Following the exit of Mick Taylor from the Rolling Stones, Wood participated in 1975 recording sessions and a subsequent tour. By April 1976, he was confirmed as an official member of the Rolling Stones. His role within the band focused on slide, pedal steel, and lap steel guitar playing.
Artistic Pursuits and Recognition
Outside of his musical contributions, Wood has maintained an career as an artist and painter. His musical contributions were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Rolling Stones in 1989 and again as a member of Faces in 2012. His solo discography includes records such as Now Look, Gimme Some Neck, and I Feel Like Playing.
Fast facts
- Born: 1947, London
- Primary Instrument: Guitar
- Band Membership: The Rolling Stones
- Former Bands: Faces, The Jeff Beck Group, The Birds
- Education: University of West London
- Solo Debut: I've Got My Own Album to Do, 1974
- Hall of Fame Inductions: 1989, 2012
Questions readers ask
When did Ronnie Wood join the Rolling Stones?
He joined the band for tours in 1975 and became an official member on 23 April 1976.
Which bands was he a member of before the Rolling Stones?
He was a member of the Birds, the Creation, the Jeff Beck Group, and Faces.
Is Ronnie Wood a painter?
Yes, he is credited as a painter and artist in addition to his work as a musician and record producer.
Achievements
- Instruments: bass guitar
- Genres: rock music, rock and roll and blues
