A Beginner’s Guide - Ronnie Lane

Ronnie Lane (born Ronald Frederick Lane, April 1, 1946 – June 4, 1997) was an English bassist, singer, and songwriter. Nicknamed “Plonk,” he was a founding member of the Small Faces and later The Faces. Known for his melodic bass lines, soulful voice, cheeky charm, and songwriting, Lane brought warmth, humor, and rootsy

SMALL FACES (1965–1969) Co-founded with Steve Marriott. Classic lineup:

• Steve Marriott – vocals, guitar

• Ronnie Lane – bass, vocals

• Kenney Jones – drums

• Ian McLagan – keyboards

KEY SMALL FACES HITS (many co-written by Lane & Marriott)

• “Itchycoo Park”

• “All or Nothing”

• “Lazy Sunday”

• “Tin Soldier”

• “Sha-La-La-La-Lee”

THE FACES (1969–1973)

After Marriott left, Lane, McLagan, and Jones joined forces with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood. Lane was a key creative force and vocalist on tracks like “Ooh La La.”

SOLO & SLIM CHANCE

Lane left The Faces in 1973 to pursue a more rootsy, folk-rock direction. He formed Slim Chance and had UK hits with:

• “How Come” (1974)

• “The Poacher”

He released acclaimed solo and collaborative albums, including Rough Mix (1977) with Pete Townshend and work with Eric Clapton and others.

LATER LIFE

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1977, Lane continued performing and recording when possible. Friends like Jimmy Page, Rod Stewart, and Ronnie Wood helped support him. He moved to Colorado in the 1990s and passed away from pneumonia in 1997 at age 51.

LEGACY

Ronnie Lane was the everyman soul of two legendary bands. His songwriting helped define mod rock and the loose, boozy charm of The Faces. Though less flashy than his bandmates, his melodic bass playing and heartfelt vocals left a lasting mark on British rock. He is remembered as one of the most beloved and respected figures of the era.

WHY RONNIE LANE MATTERS

He embodied the spirit of camaraderie and fun in rock ‘n’ roll. From East London mods to stadium-filling anthems with Rod Stewart, Lane brought genuine heart and character to every note. A true unsung hero of British rock.

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