Bio: Ronnie Wood

Love Me Do brings you a brief bio of Ronnie Wood, from his time with The Faces to The Rolling Stones, and his artwork and personal life.

Ronald David Wood, known to the world as Ronnie Wood, was born on June 1, 1947, in Hillingdon, Middlesex, England. A legendary guitarist, painter, and rock ‘n’ roll icon, Wood has been a pivotal figure in the music industry for over five decades. Best known as a member of The Rolling Stones since 1975, his dynamic guitar playing, charismatic stage presence, and artistic versatility have cemented his status as one of rock’s most enduring and beloved figures.

Ronnie Wood’s Early Years

Wood’s musical journey began in a family steeped in creativity. His older brothers, Art and Ted, were both musicians, and Ronnie quickly followed in their footsteps, learning to play the guitar and harmonica as a teenager.

By the mid-1960s, he had joined his first band, The Birds (not to be confused with The Byrds), which gained modest success in the British rhythm and blues scene. Although The Birds never achieved mainstream fame, they provided Wood with a platform to hone his skills and develop his distinctive style.

Ronnie Wood and Jeff Beck

In 1967, Wood joined the Jeff Beck Group, replacing bassist Jet Harris. This marked a turning point in his career, as he transitioned from guitar to bass and contributed to the band’s groundbreaking albums Truth (1968) and Beck-Ola (1969). His work with Jeff Beck showcased his adaptability and musical intuition, earning him recognition as a versatile and talented musician.

During this time, Wood also formed a close friendship with Rod Stewart, who was the Jeff Beck Group’s vocalist. This bond would prove pivotal in the next phase of his career.

Ronnie Wood and The Faces

In 1969, Wood and Stewart left the Jeff Beck Group to join The Faces, a band that blended rock, blues, and folk influences. As the band’s guitarist, Wood became known for his energetic performances and soulful playing. The Faces achieved significant success with albums like A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971) and Ooh La La (1973), and Wood’s collaboration with Stewart continued to flourish. Simultaneously, Wood began working as a session musician, contributing to albums by artists such as George Harrison and Eric Clapton.

Ronnie Wood and The Rolling Stones

Wood’s association with The Rolling Stones began in the early 1970s when he played on several of their albums, including It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll (1974) and Black and Blue (1976). In 1975, he officially replaced Mick Taylor as the band’s guitarist, joining Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, and Bill Wyman.

Wood’s addition brought a new energy to the band, and his chemistry with Richards became the backbone of The Rolling Stones’ signature dual-guitar sound. His slide guitar work, particularly on songs like Miss You and Start Me Up, has become iconic.

Beyond his contributions to The Rolling Stones, Wood has pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums such as I’ve Got My Own Album to Do (1974), Slide on This (1992) and Mad Live: A Tribute to Chuck Berry (2019). He has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Bob Dylan to Prince, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.

Ronnie Wood's painting of the Stones — The Art of Ronnie Wood

Ronnie Wood: Artist

In addition to his musical talents, Wood is an accomplished visual artist. His paintings, often featuring portraits of fellow musicians and abstract works, have been exhibited in galleries worldwide. His art reflects the same passion and creativity that define his music.

Ronnie Wood’s Personal Life

Wood’s personal life has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. He has been married twice and is a father to six children. Despite struggles with addiction, he has remained resilient, crediting his family and art for helping him overcome difficult times.

Ronnie Wood’s Legacy

Ronnie Wood’s legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and unparalleled talent. As a member of The Rolling Stones, he has helped shape the sound of rock ‘n’ roll for generations. His contributions to music and art continue to inspire, ensuring that his influence will endure for years to come.