What began in a smoky Soho pub in the late ’60s has blossomed into one of the most enduring friendships in rock history. Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, two icons whose paths would forever intertwine, were drawn together not just by music but by a shared passion for the art of performance and the freedom of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. From their early days as rising stars to becoming fixtures in rock’s elite circle, their bond has only deepened over time, surviving the highs and lows of fame, fortune, and personal struggle.
In January 2025, Rod Stewart marked his 80th birthday, and in doing so, he celebrated six decades of music, friendship, and unforgettable moments with none other than Ronnie Wood by his side. Wood, a talented guitarist with an unmatched flair for stage presence, has remained one of Stewart’s closest friends and collaborators throughout their entire careers. Their relationship is more than just professional; it’s an emotional connection that has seen them through some of rock’s most chaotic and triumphant moments, from the golden age of The Faces to their time with The Rolling Stones.
Their friendship didn’t follow the traditional paths many rock stars take. It wasn’t just about the fame or the music—it was about two men who shared an innate understanding of one another’s wild spirit and creative drive. In the early ’70s, when both Stewart and Wood were members of The Faces, their partnership on stage was electric, with Stewart’s impetuous vocals and Wood’s swaggering guitar playing creating the perfect rock ‘n’ roll duo. Even when Stewart moved on to a wildly successful solo career, their bond remained solid, with Wood playing a key role in several of Stewart’s albums and live performances.
Through it all, Stewart and Wood have managed to defy the expectations of the fleeting nature of friendships in the high-pressure, high-living world of rock music. Their shared love for the music industry’s rawness and the unpredictability of their craft only fueled their partnership further. They’ve lived through the chaos of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle together, surviving the excesses, the highs, and the inevitable lows. Their unbreakable bond is a testament to the power of mutual respect and camaraderie, even when faced with the challenges that come with decades in the spotlight.
As Stewart celebrates his milestone birthday in 2025, there’s more than just nostalgia at play—there’s a sense of new beginnings as well. The release of a new Faces documentary and a collection of fresh recordings is just the latest chapter in their extraordinary journey. These upcoming releases promise to give fans an even deeper look into their wild beginnings, showcasing their chemistry both on and off stage.
The Faces documentary, in particular, will shed light on the formation of the band, the personalities that made it one of rock’s most beloved outfits, and the chaotic yet joyous spirit that defined the group’s existence. Stewart, Wood, and the other members of The Faces were at the heart of an era that redefined rock, blending hard-edged performances with a sense of fun and irreverence that captured the essence of the times. With new material coming to light, both the documentary and recordings serve as a reminder of just how special their bond truly is.
What makes Stewart and Wood’s friendship stand out is not only the sheer length of time they’ve spent together, but the way they’ve remained relevant in the world of rock. Even as their careers evolved and their musical directions shifted, they’ve consistently supported one another, whether through guest appearances on each other’s records or by offering words of encouragement in times of personal difficulty. Their connection runs deeper than just musical collaboration; it’s a friendship grounded in respect, shared experiences, and a mutual love for the life they’ve created in rock and roll.
Stewart and Wood are not just surviving the rock ‘n’ roll world—they’re thriving within it, still producing music and performing with the same energy that made them household names in the ’70s. With the release of new material, fans are given a chance to experience a piece of rock history while witnessing the continued evolution of one of music’s most iconic friendships. Their shared journey, one that started in the humblest of pubs, has become the stuff of legends, and as they approach the next phase of their careers, there’s no telling how much more magic they’ll create.
Looking back, it’s clear that the friendship between Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood is one of rock’s greatest stories, not just for the music they’ve created but for the bond they’ve forged over decades of shared experience. Their enduring partnership is a rare and beautiful thing in an industry where fleeting relationships are often the norm. As they continue to produce new material, their legacy grows, reminding us that rock and roll isn’t just about the music—it’s about the connections that last a lifetime.
