Ian McLagan was a master of the keyboard, and his contributions to the world of music will forever be remembered. As a member of both Small Faces and The Faces, his energy and talent set the standards for rock concerts that energized crowds.
Ian's love for music started at an early age in London, where he first played with bands like The Muleskinners and Boz and the Boz People. Later on, he shifted to the band Small Faces as a keyboardist in 1965. He quickly made his mark in the group, whose lineup also included Ronnie Lane, Steve Marriott, and Kenney Jones.
One aspect that set Ian apart from other keyboardists was his ability to layer different instruments. He used organs, pianos, and even harpsichords to create a range of sounds that gave their classic hits new life. He became known for his style of flat fingering, which meant producing notes effortlessly while providing a solid rhythmic foundation.
After leaving Small Faces in 1969, Ian joined the multicultural band The Faces soon after they had parted ways with their original keyboardist Jimmy Winston. With Ian taking over, they produced some of their most memorable songs, including "Had Me A Real Good Time" and "Stay With Me." The group eventually disbanded, but Ian continued to contribute to the music world; admittedly, the group is still revisited by fans to this day.
He also dedicated himself to different studio work for the likes of Bonnie Rait, Billy Bragg, Bruce Springsteen, and Paul Westerberg, just to name a few. His knowledge of sound mixing acted to make successful tunes, and the leaders of various bands sought him out.
During live performances, Ian's presence alone increased the hype. The brilliance of his performance inspired fans who looked forward to experiencing something special every time they saw him perform. In fact, seeing Ian McLagan perform in concert was a high point for many fans, and once he started playing the keys on stage, they knew that they were in for an unforgettable experience.
Ian's death at 69 was a huge loss to the music industry as a whole. He left behind a legacy of unmatched professionalism, dedication, and a love for music that inspired many other musicians around him. Today's live performances benefit from commands such as how precise notes are played, ensuring the setup is flawless and captivating crowds with his talented keyboard style. Although Ian may have passed away, his work still lives on in the hearts of fans who cherish his music to this day.
