Ronnie Lane

Ronnie Lane

Ronnie Lane was born on April 1st, 1946

Full Name: Ronald Frederick Lane
Place of Birth: Plaistow, London
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Profession: Bassist, Songwriter, Producer
Notable Bands: Small Faces, Faces
Instruments: Bass Guitar, Guitar
Notable Songs: Ooh La La, Itchycoo Park
Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

A founding member of the Faces and Small Faces, this British musician was a key figure in the 1960s-70s rock scene, penning hits like "Ooh La La" and "Itchycoo Park".

Written by: David Williams David Williams

Ronnie Lane: The Bassist and Songwriter Behind Rock Icons Small Faces and Faces

The Co-Founder of Two Legendary Bands

Ronnie Lane was a British musician and songwriter, best known as the bassist and co-founder of the iconic rock bands Small Faces and Faces. With a career spanning over two decades, Lane left an indelible mark on the music industry, penning some of the most memorable hits of the 1960s and 1970s.

Early Life and Career

Born on April 1, 1946, in Plaistow, East London, Lane grew up in a working-class family. After leaving school at 16, he met Kenney Jones at a local pub, and they formed a group called The Outcasts. This marked the beginning of Lane's journey in music, which would eventually lead him to co-found Small Faces in 1965 with Steve Marriott.

Small Faces: The Mod Era Sensations

Small Faces was a mod era sensation, with Lane and Marriott writing many of their hit singles, including "All or Nothing," "Itchycoo Park," and "Lazy Sunday." The band's unique blend of psychedelic rock, soul, and R&B captured the essence of the swinging sixties. Their music became synonymous with the London mod scene, and their style influenced many British rock bands of the era.

Faces: The Birth of a New Era

After Steve Marriott's departure from Small Faces in 1968, Lane, Ian McLagan, and Kenney Jones joined forces with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood to form Faces. This new incarnation of the band brought a fresh sound, blending rock, blues, and folk elements. Faces achieved critical and commercial success, with hits like "Stay with Me" and "Cindy Incidentally."

Solo Career and Collaborations

Lane quit Faces in 1973 to pursue a solo career, releasing several albums and collaborating with other musicians. His solo work was marked by a more introspective and folk-oriented style, showcasing his growth as a songwriter and artist.

Battling Multiple Sclerosis

In 1977, Lane was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a disease that had affected his family members. Despite his health struggles, Lane continued to create music, supported by charity projects and financial contributions from friends, former bandmates, and fans.

Legacy and Posthumous Recognition

Lane's contributions to rock music were recognized posthumously when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012. His music has inspired generations of rock musicians, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.

Personal Life and Family

Lane had two children and two stepchildren who took his name. He passed away on June 4, 1997, at the age of 51, after living with multiple sclerosis for 21 years. His family and friends continue to cherish his memory and celebrate his enduring impact on rock music.

Key Discography

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

Influence on Modern Society

Ronnie Lane's music has had a lasting impact on modern rock, influencing artists such as The Rolling Stones, The Who, and The Black Crowes. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Timeline
1946
Born in England
Ronnie Lane was born on April 1, 1946, in London, England, UK. He would go on to become an English bass player, songwriter, and producer.
1960
Formed Small Faces
Lane co-founded the Small Faces, a British rock band, in the early 1960s.
1970
Formed Faces
Lane co-founded the Faces, a British rock band, in 1970, with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood.
1973
Released Anymore for Anymore
Lane released his debut solo album, Anymore for Anymore, in 1973.
1997
Passed Away
Lane passed away on June 4, 1997, at the age of 51, due to complications from multiple sclerosis.
Ronnie Lane

Ronnie Lane Quiz

What band did Ronnie Lane co-found with Steve Marriott?

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FAQ
What was Ronnie Lanes role in the Small Faces?
Ronnie Lane was a founding member and bassist of the Small Faces, a British rock band known for their psychedelic sound and hits like Itchycoo Park.
What are Ronnie Lanes most famous songs?
Ronnie Lanes most famous songs include Ooh La La and How Come, both of which were released with the band Slim Chance.
What was Ronnie Lanes solo career like?
Ronnie Lanes solo career was marked by a more laid-back, folk-rock sound. He released several albums, including Anymore for Anymore and One for the Road.
What was Ronnie Lanes relationship with Pete Townshend?
Ronnie Lane and Pete Townshend were close friends and collaborators. Townshend wrote the song Rough Boys as a tribute to Lane.
How did Ronnie Lane die?
Ronnie Lane died in 1997 at the age of 51 due to complications from multiple sclerosis, which he had been diagnosed with in 1977.

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