5 Songs That Made Fleetwood Mac A Success In The ’70s

Fleetwood Mac, originally a blues-rock band, evolved significantly through the comings and goings of its members, achieving its commercial zenith in the late 1970s with a pop-rock sound. The band’s 1977 album, Rumors, remains their most iconic work, selling over 40 million copies worldwide and solidifying their place in music history.

Here, we revisit the five songs that propelled Fleetwood Mac to success in the ’70s:

Go Your Own Way
While Stevie Nicks took her breakup with Lindsey Buckingham in stride, Buckingham channeled his feelings into “Go Your Own Way.” This song, featured on Rumors, is a direct and powerful message to Nicks, and it’s hailed as one of the best rock songs of the ’70s. Its raw emotion and catchy melody made it an instant hit.

Rhiannon
“Rhiannon” was Fleetwood Mac’s first major hit following the addition of Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks to the band. Written by Nicks, the song draws inspiration from a Welsh legend. It quickly became a fan favorite, particularly noted for its electrifying live performances. The 1976 rendition stands out, showcasing Nicks’ captivating stage presence, especially in the song’s climactic finale.

The Chain
“The Chain” is unique in Fleetwood Mac’s catalog as the only song on Rumors co-written by all five members. The result is nothing short of spectacular. The song’s theme of unity despite personal turmoil is poignantly conveyed, and John McVie’s iconic bass line adds a haunting depth, making it a standout track that encapsulates the band’s resilience.

Dreams
In contrast to Buckingham’s pointed “Go Your Own Way,” Nicks responded with the more subtle and sarcastic “Dreams.” This song became Fleetwood Mac’s only No. 1 hit in America. Its timeless quality and ethereal sound continue to resonate with listeners, embodying the essence of Fleetwood Mac’s most successful era without overshadowing the contributions of earlier members like Peter Green.

Landslide
“Landslide,” written by Nicks, reflects on life’s changes and the passage of time, themes that resonated deeply with audiences. Its stripped-down acoustic arrangement highlighted Nicks’ poignant lyrics and vocal delivery. Over the years, “Landslide” has remained one of Fleetwood Mac’s most beloved songs, often covered by other artists, and continues to connect with new generations of fans.