Stevie Nicks Says Lindsey Buckingham’s Treatment of Harry Styles Helped Lead to His Firing

Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham’s relationship is one of rock music’s most notorious dramas. Once romantically involved, they joined Fleetwood Mac together, penned songs inspired by their breakups, and frequently clashed both on and off stage. In 2018, after a benefit concert, Nicks declared she was done with Buckingham for good. She later revealed that his behavior that night—including his treatment of Harry Styles—solidified her decision to never work with him again.

The Defining Moment at MusiCares

The 2018 MusiCares gala, where Fleetwood Mac received the Person of the Year award, was expected to be a joyous occasion; however, it ended in conflict. Nicks told Rolling Stone that she made up her mind to sever ties with Buckingham after the event. She had brought a song she co-wrote with LeAnn Rimes titled “Borrowed,” hoping they could perform it together. However, once Buckingham heard the song, his mood darkened, and his unkind behavior toward those around them—especially Styles—was the final straw.

She recalled hearing her parents’ voices in her head, with her father urging her to consider divorce. Influenced by their advice, she said, “I’m done.” Shortly after, Buckingham was removed from the band.

Setting the Record Straight on Buckingham’s Departure

Although Buckingham blamed Nicks for his firing, she denied any direct role in the decision. She informed her bandmates she would no longer perform alongside him, and the group chose to move forward with her. In a statement to Rolling Stone, she explained, “I did not have him fired, nor did I ask or demand it. I basically fired myself.” Calling the situation toxic, she decided to step away for the sake of her own well-being. Since then, Fleetwood Mac has ceased touring with no plans for a reunion.

An Unshakeable Bond with Harry Styles

Nicks was particularly upset by Buckingham’s disrespect toward Styles, largely because she shares a close friendship with the pop star. The two first met in 2015, and Nicks has admired him ever since. On The Zane Lowe Interview Series podcast, she described Styles as more than just a friend — calling him family, like a brother or a son — and suggested their connection runs deep, possibly from a past life. Styles is part of a new generation of artists whom Nicks has embraced as kindred spirits.