How Ooh La La By Rod Stewart Became An Emotional Tribute To His Former Bandmate Ronnie Lane

March 21, 2025

Rod Stewart stood backstage, a wave of nostalgia washing over him as he prepared to perform “Ooh La La.” This moment was more than just another concert; it was a heartfelt tribute to his former bandmate, Ronnie Lane, who had passed away a few years earlier. The two had shared unforgettable memories during their time together in the band Faces, blending rock, blues, and folk into something uniquely their own. As Rod reflected on their friendship, he felt the weight of their shared experiences and the joy of their music echoing in his heart.

Ronnie was not only a talented musician but also a soul who brought laughter and warmth to everyone around him. They had spent countless hours writing songs, laughing in the studio, and touring the world together, creating a bond that was as strong as the music they made. When Ronnie was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Rod felt a sense of helplessness. He watched as his friend battled the disease, fighting bravely but ultimately losing the fight in 1997. The sorrow of that loss settled heavily on Rod’s shoulders, but it also ignited a flame within him to honor Ronnie’s legacy through music.

As Rod sang “Ooh La La,” he remembered the way Ronnie used the song to tell a story about love, dreams, and the bittersweet nature of life. The lyrics were like a mirror, reflecting the laughter and the tears they had experienced together. Rod poured his heart into every note, letting the music become a bridge connecting him to Ronnie. The crowd could feel the emotion swelling in the air, and as Rod looked out at their faces, he saw kindred spirits who resonated with the pain of loss and the celebration of life.

In that moment, Rod realized that every performance was not just about entertaining but also about healing. The applause that erupted after the song filled him with gratitude. He could feel Ronnie’s presence beside him, urging him to keep going and to keep creating music. It was a powerful reminder that even in the face of sadness, music has the ability to uplift and inspire. Through “Ooh La La,” Rod found a way to keep Ronnie’s spirit alive, sharing their story with the world and turning grief into a celebration of friendship and creativity.

From that night forward, Rod Stewart made it a point to include “Ooh La La” in his setlist whenever he performed. Each rendition became more than just a song; it was a ritual, a reminder of how music can connect hearts across time and space. Fans would often approach him, sharing their own stories of loss and love, inspired by the way he honored Ronnie. Rod learned that through sharing his pain, he was also helping others heal, fostering a community bound by the universal language of music.

Ultimately, “Ooh La La” became a symbol of resilience and the enduring power of friendship. Rod Stewart transformed his sorrow into a beautiful tribute, ensuring that Ronnie Lane would never be forgotten. In the end, it wasn’t just about the music; it was about the love, the memories, and the unbreakable bond that would forever echo in the chords of their shared songs. Each performance was a new opportunity to celebrate life, love, and the music that brings us all together.