The Reluctant Rocker: When Rod Stewart Said ‘No’ to a Classic
There’s something deeply human about an artist rejecting their own masterpiece—or, in Rod Stewart’s case, a song that would later become a classic. The story of Stewart’s initial disdain for Ooh La La is more than just a footnote in rock history; it’s a window into the complexities of creativity, collaboration, and the ego of a frontman. Personally, I think this anecdote is fascinating because it challenges the myth of the artist as an infallible genius. Even someone as charismatic and talented as Stewart could misjudge a song’s potential—and that’s what makes this story so relatable.
The Song That Wasn’t Meant to Be (for Rod)
When The Faces presented Ooh La La to Stewart, his reaction was blunt: ‘Don’t like it.’ What makes this particularly fascinating is the reason behind his reluctance. Stewart claimed the song was in the wrong key for him, a detail that I find especially interesting. It’s not just about personal taste; it’s about the technical limitations that even the most seasoned performers face. If you take a step back and think about it, this moment highlights the tension between an artist’s comfort zone and the demands of their craft. Stewart wasn’t just being difficult—he was protecting his voice, his brand, and perhaps his pride.
Ronnie Wood’s Unexpected Turn in the Spotlight
What many people don’t realize is that Ooh La La became a vehicle for Ronnie Wood’s growth as a musician. Wood, not known for his vocals, stepped up to sing the track, and the result was surprisingly beautiful. In my opinion, this is where the story takes a turn from being just about Stewart’s reluctance to becoming a testament to the band’s adaptability. The Faces didn’t need their star frontman to carry every song—they were a band in the truest sense, capable of elevating each other’s strengths. This raises a deeper question: how many other iconic tracks owe their existence to someone stepping out of their comfort zone?
The Faces: More Than Just a Backing Band
One thing that immediately stands out is how The Faces’ dynamic shifted when Stewart wasn’t at the helm. They weren’t just a backing band for their charismatic singer; they were a collective of talented musicians with their own vision. What this really suggests is that Stewart’s solo ambitions, while justified, may have overshadowed the band’s potential as a unit. From my perspective, this is a common narrative in rock history—the tension between individual brilliance and collective artistry. The Faces could have been one of the greatest bands of their generation, but Stewart’s solo success often overshadows their legacy.
The Long Road to Acceptance
Stewart’s eventual recording of Ooh La La 25 years later is a testament to the song’s enduring appeal. But what’s more intriguing is the psychological shift that must have occurred for him to revisit it. Did he finally hear what the rest of us did? Or was it a nod to his past, a way to reconcile with a part of his career he’d once dismissed? Personally, I think it’s a bit of both. Artists often revisit their past work with a new lens, and Stewart’s belated embrace of the song feels like a moment of maturity—a recognition that not every great song needs to be in your key.
What This Story Tells Us About Art and Ego
If you take a step back and think about it, this story isn’t just about a song or a band; it’s about the messy, unpredictable nature of creativity. Artists are flawed, and their egos often get in the way of their own brilliance. But sometimes, those flaws lead to unexpected outcomes—like Ronnie Wood’s tender vocals or Stewart’s eventual acceptance of a song he once rejected. What this really suggests is that art is a collaborative, evolving process, not a solo act.
Final Thoughts
In the end, Ooh La La isn’t just a song—it’s a symbol of the complexities of artistic collaboration. Stewart’s reluctance, Wood’s bravery, and the band’s resilience all contributed to its legacy. From my perspective, this story is a reminder that even the greatest artists don’t always see the potential in their own work. And that’s okay. Because sometimes, it’s the mistakes, the missteps, and the moments of doubt that lead to something truly timeless.
