The Missing Piece Of Small Faces History: Kenney Jones Speaks

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Post on Feb 09, 2025

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The Missing Piece of Small Faces History: Kenney Jones Speaks

For decades, the story of the Small Faces has been told and retold, focusing on the iconic songwriting partnership of Ronnie Lane and Steve Marriott, and the undeniable charisma of their early lineups. But there's a crucial chapter often overlooked, a period of significant transition and surprising success: the era of Kenney Jones on drums. This article delves into that often-missed narrative, drawing on insights from Kenney Jones himself to paint a fuller picture of this vital period in Small Faces history.

From Faces to Fame: Kenney Jones' Crucial Contribution

Replacing the departing Ian McLagan, Kenney Jones joined the Small Faces in 1968, a time of considerable upheaval in the British music scene. The band, already established as a force to be reckoned with, was facing an identity crisis. Their psychedelic explorations were evolving, their sound shifting. Jones's arrival marked a turning point, providing a fresh, energetic drumming style that propelled the band into a new phase, one that ultimately saw them morph into Faces.

A New Sound, A New Name: The Evolution of Faces

Jones's precise and powerful drumming perfectly complemented the evolving musical direction of the band. While retaining the Small Faces' raw energy, his style added a level of sophistication that enhanced their increasingly polished sound. This transition wasn't just musical; it was also a rebranding. The shift to "Faces" signaled a conscious effort to move beyond the constraints of their previous image and musical boundaries.

The significance of this change can't be overstated. It allowed the band to embrace a wider range of musical influences and experiment with styles beyond their earlier Mod-infused repertoire. This period saw the creation of some of their most enduring and commercially successful material.

Kenney Jones' Impact Beyond the Drums

Kenney Jones's contribution wasn't limited to his rhythmic prowess. He played a critical role in shaping the dynamic within the band, offering a stabilizing presence amidst the often volatile personalities of his bandmates. He provided a crucial counterpoint to the sometimes chaotic energies of Marriott and Lane, helping to maintain a creative balance. His steady, professional approach fostered an environment where the band could create its most memorable work.

Key Takeaways:

• Jones's drumming was pivotal in the evolution of the Small Faces' sound, pushing them towards a more polished, sophisticated style.
• His arrival marked a crucial turning point, leading to the formation of Faces and a new era of musical experimentation.
• His role extended beyond the drums, influencing the band's dynamics and creative process.

The Untold Stories: Kenney Jones' Perspective

In numerous interviews, Kenney Jones has shared intimate details about his time with Faces, offering unique insights into the band’s creative process, internal dynamics, and the challenges they faced. These accounts paint a richer, more human picture of a band often reduced to simplified narratives. He reveals anecdotes about songwriting sessions, tour experiences, and personal relationships, shedding light on the complex personalities and creative tensions that shaped their music and their legacy.

The Creative Spark: Behind the Music

Jones’ accounts reveal the intense creative energy within the band, often describing spontaneous jam sessions and collaborative songwriting efforts. His descriptions of the creative process, often characterized by both intense collaboration and individual brilliance, offer valuable context for understanding the unique sound of Faces.

The Human Element: Beyond the Legend

Jones’ perspectives add a layer of humanity to the often-mythologized image of the band. He paints a picture of camaraderie, but also acknowledges the inherent tensions and challenges of working with such strong personalities. His insights reveal the complexities of human relationships within the context of a successful and demanding rock and roll band.

The Enduring Legacy: Small Faces, Faces, and the Kenney Jones Story

The story of Kenney Jones' time with Small Faces, culminating in the era of Faces, is a crucial piece of the band's history. His contribution, both musically and personally, is undeniable. By understanding his role, we gain a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of this pivotal chapter in rock and roll history. His recollections offer a fresh perspective, enriching the existing narrative and revealing the human element behind the music. The legacy of Small Faces/Faces is enriched by including the often overlooked contribution of this talented and insightful drummer. His perspective is a missing piece of the puzzle, finally offering a more complete and compelling understanding of one of rock music's most enduringly fascinating bands.