Ronald David Wood, better known as Ronnie Wood, was born on June 1, 1947, in London, England. A celebrated musician, songwriter, and visual artist, Wood is best known as a member of the iconic rock band, The Rolling Stones. His career has spanned over six decades, during which he has not only contributed to some of the most significant albums in rock history but also established himself as a multi-talented artist in his own right. Wood’s journey from his early days in London to global rock stardom is a tale of passion, resilience, and creativity.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Ronnie Wood was born into a family with a rich cultural background. His father was an amateur musician, and his brothers were also involved in music, which meant that Wood was exposed to the world of entertainment from a very young age. Growing up in the post-war era, Wood developed an early fascination with the burgeoning rock and roll scene, which was quickly becoming the soundtrack of youth culture in Britain.
At the age of 17, Wood began his professional music career as the guitarist for The Birds, a rhythm and blues band based in Yiewsley, West London. The Birds achieved moderate success in the mid-1960s, releasing several singles, many of which were co-written by Wood. Despite their talent and a dedicated fan base, The Birds struggled to break through in a crowded music scene and eventually disbanded in 1967.
After the dissolution of The Birds, Wood briefly joined a project called Santa Barbara Machine Head before finding his next significant musical opportunity. His big break came when he joined The Jeff Beck Group in 1967 as a bassist, playing alongside future rock legend Rod Stewart. The group released two influential albums, Truth (1968) and Beck-Ola (1969), which showcased Wood’s growing prowess as a musician. However, the band was short-lived, and Wood soon found himself at another crossroads in his career.
Faces and Rise to Stardom
In the late 1960s, following the breakup of The Jeff Beck Group, Ronnie Wood and Rod Stewart joined forces with the remaining members of The Small Faces—following the departure of lead singer Steve Marriott—to form a new band simply called Faces. The new group quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy performances, raucous behavior, and blues-inflected rock sound.
Faces became one of the most popular live acts of the early 1970s, with Wood’s raw guitar work and Stewart’s charismatic vocals driving the band’s success. Their albums, including First Step (1970), Long Player (1971), and A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971), featured a mix of hard rock, blues, and soul, capturing the hedonistic spirit of the times. Hits like “Stay With Me” and “Ooh La La” remain classic rock staples to this day.
During his time with Faces, Wood began to establish himself as a solo artist as well. He released his debut solo album, I’ve Got My Own Album to Do in 1974, which featured contributions from Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and other notable musicians. The album received critical acclaim and showcased Wood’s versatility as both a guitarist and songwriter.
Joining The Rolling Stones
Ronnie Wood’s relationship with The Rolling Stones began as a friendship long before he became a member of the band. He first collaborated with the Stones in 1974 when he played on the track “It’s Only Rock ’n Roll (But I Like It),” contributing guitar work that added a distinct flair to the song. Around the same time, Wood was finishing his second solo album, Now Look (1975), further solidifying his position in the rock world.
In 1975, Wood was asked to join The Rolling Stones as a replacement for guitarist Mick Taylor, who had left the band the previous year. Wood’s style was seen as a perfect complement to Keith Richards’ playing, and the two guitarists quickly developed a close musical partnership. Wood officially became a member of The Rolling Stones in 1976, just in time for the release of the album Black and Blue.
Wood’s arrival in The Rolling Stones marked a new era for the band. His contributions were integral to their sound on subsequent albums, including Some Girls (1978), which featured the hit single “Miss You,” and Tattoo You (1981), which included classics like “Start Me Up.” Wood’s ability to blend seamlessly with the band while bringing his unique style to the table helped revitalize The Rolling Stones during the late 1970s and 1980s.
The 1980s: Continued Success and Solo Ventures
Throughout the 1980s, Ronnie Wood remained a key member of The Rolling Stones, contributing to their continued success on albums such as Emotional Rescue (1980), Tattoo You (1981), and Dirty Work (1986). The band’s global tours during this period further cemented their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Despite his commitments to The Rolling Stones, Wood continued to pursue his solo career and collaborate with other artists. In 1981, he released the album 1234, which showcased his ability to experiment with different sounds and genres. The album featured contributions from a host of famous musicians, including former Beatle Ringo Starr, and reflected Wood’s ongoing passion for musical exploration.
Wood also became known for his collaborations with some of the biggest names in music. He worked with Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, David Bowie, and Prince, among others. His versatility and adaptability as a guitarist made him a sought-after collaborator, and he was often invited to play at major events, such as the Live Aid concert in 1985, where he performed alongside Bob Dylan and Keith Richards.
The 1990s and Beyond: A Multifaceted Artist
As The Rolling Stones entered the 1990s, they continued to dominate the rock world with successful tours and albums. Ronnie Wood remained an integral part of the band, contributing to their continued relevance and success. In 1994, The Rolling Stones released Voodoo Lounge, an album that won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Album and was followed by a massive world tour.
Wood’s solo career also flourished during the 1990s. He released several albums, including Slide on This (1992), which he promoted with tours in the United States and Japan. His ability to balance his commitments to The Rolling Stones while continuing to create and perform as a solo artist was a testament to his dedication to his craft.
Wood’s talents extended beyond music. He is also an accomplished visual artist, with his artwork being exhibited in galleries around the world. His paintings, often featuring portraits of fellow musicians and scenes from his life, have garnered critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a multi-talented artist.
Personal Life and Challenges
Ronnie Wood’s personal life has been as colorful as his music career. He has faced numerous challenges, including battles with addiction. Wood’s struggles with alcohol and drug abuse were well-documented, and he sought treatment multiple times throughout his life. Despite these challenges, Wood has always managed to bounce back, demonstrating resilience and a determination to overcome adversity.
In 2009, Wood was awarded the Outstanding Contribution prize at the Classic Rock Roll of Honour awards in London, a recognition of his enduring influence and contributions to the music industry. In the same year, he performed with members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers at the MusiCares event, highlighting his continued relevance and ability to connect with younger generations of musicians.
Wood’s personal life took a positive turn in 2012 when he married theater producer Sally Humphreys. The couple welcomed twin daughters in 2016, bringing joy and stability to Wood’s life after years of tumult. However, shortly after the birth of his daughters, Wood was diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite the diagnosis, Wood refused chemotherapy, fearing the loss of his hair, but he successfully recovered after surgery in 2017.
Legacy and Influence
Ronnie Wood’s legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and versatility. As a key member of The Rolling Stones, he has contributed to some of the most iconic albums and performances in rock history. His unique guitar style, which blends blues, rock, and soul influences, has inspired countless musicians and continues to resonate with fans around the world.
Beyond his music, Wood’s contributions to the arts through his visual work and his enduring presence in popular culture have solidified his status as a multifaceted artist. His ability to continuously evolve as an artist while maintaining his roots in rock and roll has made him a true icon of the genre.
As he continues to perform and create, Ronnie Wood remains a vital and influential figure in the music world. His journey, marked by both incredible success and personal challenges, serves as an inspiration to artists and fans alike.
Conclusion
Ronnie Wood’s life and career are a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and resilience. From his early days as a young guitarist in London to his rise to fame with Faces and The Rolling Stones, Wood has consistently pushed the boundaries of his art, both as a musician and a visual artist. His contributions to the world of rock and roll are immeasurable, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.
As a member of one of the greatest rock bands in history and as a solo artist, Wood’s work has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His journey is a reminder that true artistry knows no bounds, and his legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
