Ian McLagan, one of the Small Faces and then the Faces, has died in Austin at the age of 69. McLagan suffered a stroke.
A statement at Ian’s official website reads:
“It is with great sadness and eternal admiration that we report the passing of rock and roll icon Ian McLagan. Ian was a member of the Small Faces and Faces and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012. He died today, December 3, 2014, surrounded by family and friends in his adopted hometown of Austin, TX, due to complications from a stroke suffered the previous day. He was 69 years old. His manager Ken Kushnick says, ‘He was a beloved friend to so many people and a true rock n roll spirit. His persona and gift of song impacted the music across oceans and generations.’
Ian’s artistry, generosity and warmth of spirit touched countless other musicians and music fans around the world. His loss will be felt by so many.”
Ian McLagan, aka Mac, was born in Middlesex, UK in 1945.
McLagan joined the Small Faces in 1966 replacing original keyboard player Jimmy Winston. The band had a string of hits including ‘Itchycoo Park’, ‘Lazy Sunday’ and ‘Tin Soldier’.
The Small Faces officially disbanded in 1969. Ian McLagan, Ronnie Lane and Kenney Jones recruited Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood and became The Faces.
The Faces only recorded four album but became one of the UK’s most influential groups. Their biggest hit ‘Stay With Me’ is still a staple of every Rod Stewart setlist.
After The Faces split, Ian became a studio musician working on albums for The Rolling Stones, Jackson Browne, Bruce Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt and more recently John Mayer. He was also the piano player of ‘The London Chuck Berry Sessions’.
Ian relocated to Austin, Texas in 1993 and would often play in the local clubs and bars scattered throughout the city. He was married to Kim Kerrigan, the ex-wife of Keith Moon. Kim died in a car accident in Austin in 2006.
Ian McLagan passed away in December 3, 2014 at 2:39pm Austin time following a massive stroke on Monday and was being cared for at Austin’s Brackenridge Hospital.
