Ronnie Wood stands as one of British music’s most vibrant figures, a man whose career has spanned six decades and multiple iconic bands. Born in Hillingdon, London, in 1947, Wood’s early life was steeped in music. His family included two older brothers, both musicians, setting the stage for his own journey into rock and blues. Wood’s first taste of the limelight came in the 1960s with bands like the Birds and the Creation. He soon joined the Jeff Beck Group, contributing to classic albums such as Truth and Beck-Ola. In 1969, Wood teamed up with Rod Stewart and members of the Small Faces to form Faces, a group whose raucous energy and soulful sound quickly won fans across the UK and Europe.
Faces, The Rolling Stones, and a Solo Path
Faces became a defining force in early 1970s rock, with Wood’s guitar work central to hits like “Stay With Me.” The band’s chemistry was undeniable, but by 1975, Wood’s path would take another historic turn. Invited by Keith Richards, he joined The Rolling Stones—initially as a temporary member, but soon becoming a permanent fixture.
Since then, Wood has played on every Stones studio album from Black and Blue (1976) to Hackney Diamonds (2023), helping the band remain at the cutting edge of rock for nearly fifty years. His distinctive guitar style, blending blues, soul, and rock, has become a cornerstone of the Stones’ sound.
Alongside his work with legendary bands, Wood has carved out a solo career, releasing albums such as I’ve Got My Own Album to Do (1974), Gimme Some Neck (1979), and, most recently, Live at Electric Ladyland, which debuted at No. 13 on Billboard’s Blues Albums chart in April 2025. Each project has showcased his versatility and enduring creative spark.
Glastonbury 2025: A Faces Reunion and British Music Royalty
This summer, Wood’s legacy was celebrated on one of the UK’s grandest stages. At Glastonbury 2025, he reunited with Rod Stewart for a show-stopping performance during Stewart’s “Legends” slot on the Pyramid Stage. The pair, joined by Lulu and Mick Hucknall, thrilled a sun-drenched crowd with classics like “Stay With Me” and “Hot Legs.” The reunion marked their first public appearance together since the 2020 BRIT Awards and reignited interest in the Faces’ catalogue for a new generation.
The Glastonbury set was more than nostalgia. It was a reminder of Wood’s magnetic stage presence and his deep bond with Stewart, forged over decades of music-making. Stewart, now 80, jokes on stage about their enduring friendship, while Wood’s joy was clear as he launched into the opening bars of their 1971 hit.
The Rolling Stones: New Music and Tour Plans
Even as he celebrates his past, Wood remains firmly focused on the future. The Rolling Stones, fresh from their 2024 North American tour, are now planning a major European tour for 2025—their first on the continent since the release of Hackney Diamonds. Wood has confirmed that the band is already back in the studio, recording new material at London’s Metropolis Studios. By June 2025, the Stones had reportedly completed thirteen new tracks, with Wood collaborating closely with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and producer Andrew Watt.
The new album is expected to channel the raw, bluesy energy that defined their recent work, with Wood’s guitar at its heart. Fans can anticipate a blend of classic Stones swagger and fresh ideas, as the band continues to defy expectations well into their seventies and eighties.
Art, Family, and a Life Beyond Music
Ronnie Wood’s creativity is not confined to music. He is also an accomplished painter, with his latest exhibition opening at the Andrew Martin store in London in late 2024. His artwork often features portraits of his bandmates and scenes from life on the road, providing a unique perspective on the world of rock and roll. Wood once described art as his “lawful wife” and music as his “mistress,” capturing the passion he brings to both pursuits.
Wood’s personal life is as colourful as his career. Now in his late seventies, he remains a devoted family man, often seen with his wife and children at public events. Despite the pressures of fame and relentless touring, he has maintained a grounded, joyful approach to life, endearing him to fans across generations.
Conclusion
Ronnie Wood’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless creativity. From his early days in London’s music scene to the world’s biggest stages, he has left an indelible mark on British culture. Whether performing to thousands at Glastonbury, recording new music with the Stones, or unveiling a new painting, Wood’s energy and passion remain undimmed.
As the Rolling Stones prepare for another tour and Faces hint at a long-awaited album, Wood stands as a living testament to the power of rock and roll. His journey continues to inspire, reminding us that true artistry knows no age—and that the best may still be yet to come.
To read more click here
