Ronnie Wood facts: Rolling Stones star's age, wife, children, songs and career explained

31 May 2024, 14:55 | Updated: 3 June 2024, 15:00

Ronnie Wood, the iconic guitarist known for his distinctive style and dynamic presence, has carved out a remarkable career in rock.

His journey began with the Jeff Beck Group and Faces before achieving legendary status as a member of the Rolling Stones.

His versatility as a musician, blending rock, blues, and soul, has earned him acclaim and admiration from fans and peers alike.

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Beyond his musical achievements, Wood is also a celebrated artist, seamlessly merging his passion for painting with his life on stage.

1. How old is Ronnie Wood and where is he from?

   

   Ronnie Wood is 77 years old as of 2024.

   He was born on June 1, 1947, in Hillingdon, London.

   He was born to parents Arthur Wood and Elizabeth Wood. He has two older brothers, Art Wood and Ted Wood, both of whom were also involved in the music industry.

   Art Wood was a singer and founding member of the R&B band The Artwoods, while Ted Wood was a musician and a member of the band The Temperance Seven. Ted Wood died in 2004 and Art Wood in 2006.

2. How did Ronnie Wood get his start in music?

   

   Ronnie Wood got his start in music influenced by his family's deep musical roots. His older brothers, Art and Ted, were already involved in the music scene, which provided a nurturing environment for his musical aspirations.

   Wood's first significant break came when he joined the Birds, a British R&B band, in the mid-1960s. His talent on the guitar quickly made him a standout member.

   In 1967, Wood's career took a significant leap forward when he joined the Jeff Beck Group as a bassist. This association brought him into the limelight, playing alongside Jeff Beck and vocalist Rod Stewart. The Jeff Beck Group's blend of blues rock and innovative sound laid the foundation for Wood's future success.

   

   After the Jeff Beck Group disbanded, Wood and Stewart joined the Faces in 1969. Wood returned to the guitar, and the band enjoyed considerable success, known for their energetic performances and hits like 'Stay with Me'. His tenure with Faces solidified his reputation as a gifted guitarist and charismatic performer.

   Wood's big break came in 1975 when he joined the Rolling Stones, replacing Mick Taylor. He joined up with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman and Charlie Watts (Brian Jones had died in 1969).

3. How many times has Ronnie Wood been married and does he have kids?

   

   Ronnie Wood has been married three times.

   His first marriage was to Krissy Findlay in 1971, and they divorced in 1978. His second marriage was to Jo Wood in 1985, and they divorced in 2009.

   In 2012, he married Sally Humphreys, and they are still together.

   

   

   Ronnie Wood has six children. From his first marriage to Krissy Findlay, he has one son, Jesse.

   From his second marriage to Jo Wood, he has two children, Leah and Tyrone, and he also adopted Jo's son Jamie from her previous marriage.

   With his current wife, Sally Humphreys, he has twin daughters, Gracie Jane and Alice Rose, born in 2016.

   

4. What health issues has Ronnie Wood had?

   Ronnie Wood has faced several health issues over the years. In 2017, he was diagnosed with lung cancer, which led to the removal of a part of his lung.

   Fortunately, the cancer was detected early, and he did not require chemotherapy. Wood has been a heavy smoker for many years, which likely contributed to his lung cancer diagnosis.

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   Additionally, in 2021, Wood revealed that he had been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of small-cell cancer during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. After undergoing treatment, he announced that he was cancer-free.

5. What else has Ronnie Wood done outside of the Rolling Stones?

   

   Wood has released several solo albums, showcasing his talent as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist.

   His solo discography includes titles like I’ve Got My Own Album to Do (1974), Gimme Some Neck (1979), and I Feel Like Playing (2010).

   Ronnie Wood is also a talented visual artist. He has exhibited his paintings, drawings, and prints worldwide. His artwork often features fellow musicians, portraits, and scenes from his life on the road.