Fleetwood Mac's Biggest Hits: A Definitive List

Viktoria Ivanova

5 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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The Buckingham Nicks Era and Early Success

Before the global phenomenon of Rumours, there was the Buckingham Nicks era. Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks, before joining Fleetwood Mac, formed their own band, releasing one self-titled album in 1973. While commercially unsuccessful at the time, this period laid the groundwork for their future triumphs. Their unique blend of folk, rock, and soft rock, heavily influenced by Buckingham's intricate guitar work and Nicks' captivating vocals, would later become a cornerstone of Fleetwood Mac's sound. The songs from this era, though less widely known, showcase their undeniable talent and foreshadow the magic to come.

• "Frozen Love": This track, with its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, displays the songwriting chemistry that would later define Rumours. While not a chart-topper, it's a crucial piece in understanding their artistic evolution.
• "Street Angel": Showcasing Buckingham's guitar prowess and Nicks' ethereal vocals, "Street Angel" hinted at the captivating blend of rock and folk that would become their signature style. It's a testament to their early songwriting brilliance, providing a glimpse into their future potential.
• The influence of this early work is undeniable. The harmonies, the distinct guitar styles, and the lyrical themes all found their way into their later, more commercially successful projects, proving the foundation of their future iconic status was already present.

The Rumours Era: Defining a Generation

The release of Rumours in 1977 irrevocably changed the landscape of popular music. This album, fueled by the intense interpersonal relationships and creative tensions within the band, produced a string of unforgettable hits that continue to be played today. The album's cultural impact is immeasurable, its success cementing Fleetwood Mac's place in rock history. The songwriting credits often reflect the complex dynamics within the band, adding another layer of intrigue to its legacy.

• "Go Your Own Way": Buckingham's raw and emotional anthem of heartbreak became an instant classic, its iconic guitar riff instantly recognizable. Its chart-topping success solidified the album's place in music history.
• "Dreams": Nicks' ethereal vocals and captivating lyrics turned "Dreams" into a timeless masterpiece, captivating audiences with its haunting melody and relatable themes of love and loss. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its power.
• "Don't Stop": This upbeat and optimistic track, co-written by Buckingham and Nicks, provided a counterpoint to the album's more melancholic themes. Its infectious energy and positive message continue to resonate with listeners.
• "Landslide": A poignant and reflective ballad, "Landslide" showcased Nicks' songwriting depth, touching on themes of time, change, and reflection. Its emotional resonance helped establish Nicks' legendary status as a powerful vocalist and songwriter.
• "Gold Dust Woman": This mystical and slightly eerie track showcased Nicks' distinctive style and vocal prowess, becoming a staple in Fleetwood Mac concerts. Its mysterious vibe and captivating melody cemented its place in their list of top songs.
• The commercial success of Rumours was staggering, spending 31 weeks at the top of the Billboard charts and selling millions of copies worldwide. Its influence on subsequent artists is undeniable, and its impact on the music industry is still felt today.

Post-Rumours Hits and Continued Success

Following the phenomenal success of Rumours, Fleetwood Mac continued to produce hit albums and singles, proving their longevity and artistic versatility. While perhaps not reaching the same stratospheric heights as Rumours, their post-Rumours output showcased their continued evolution and musical experimentation, proving their resilience and enduring appeal.

• Tusk (1979): This album, known for its diverse sounds and experimental tracks, featured the iconic title track, a sprawling, almost symphonic rock song. It showcased a willingness to push musical boundaries, setting them apart from many of their contemporaries.
• Mirage (1982): This album produced hits like "Hold Me," "Gypsy," and "Sara," showcasing a return to a more polished pop-rock sound. The continued songwriting synergy between band members ensured their continued success.
• Tango in the Night (1987): This album featured more pop-oriented sounds and contributed hits like "Everywhere" and "Little Lies," demonstrating their ability to adapt to changing musical trends while maintaining their distinctive style.
• Significant lineup changes occurred throughout this period, impacting the band's musical direction. However, their ability to adapt and reinvent themselves ensured their continued relevance in the music industry.

Beyond the Hits: Deep Cuts to Discover

While the previously mentioned songs define Fleetwood Mac's mainstream success, their vast discography contains numerous "deep cuts" – lesser-known tracks that deserve recognition. These hidden gems often showcase the band's musical depth and experimentation, revealing a different side of their artistic capabilities.

• "Silver Springs" (Rumours outtake): A powerful ballad originally intended for Rumours, its haunting melody and raw emotion make it a must-listen for any dedicated fan.
• "Storms" (The Chain): Another powerful song from the Rumours sessions, showcases the band's collaborative creativity and their ability to craft intense and moving soundscapes.
• "Songbird" (Rumours): A quiet beauty that is often overlooked but is a testament to the band's ability to craft emotionally resonant pieces.
• "That's All For Everyone" (Tusk): A standout track from their more experimental Tusk album, this unique blend of styles shows their willingness to explore a broad range of sonic palettes.

Conclusion

From the early promise of Buckingham Nicks to the monumental success of Rumours and the continued evolution of their sound in the post-Rumours era, Fleetwood Mac's influence on popular music is undeniable. This definitive list highlights some of their most recognizable and beloved songs, but it only scratches the surface of their vast and varied discography. Their biggest hits, spanning various styles and reflecting the complex dynamics within the band, represent a remarkable body of work. Dive deeper into the world of Fleetwood Mac and create your own definitive list of their best songs!