Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie Dies at 79
Christine McVie, Fleetwood Mac vocalist, keyboardist and songwriter, has died. She was 79.
McVie’s death was confirmed in a statement shared on social media that reads as follows:
“On behalf of Christine McVie’s family, it is with a heavy heart we are informing you of Christine’s death. She passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th 2022, following a short illness. She was in the company of her family. We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally. RIP Christine McVie.”
Fleetwood Mac issued a joint statement in response to McVie’s shocking death saying, “There are no words to describe out sadness at the passing of Christine McVie. She was truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure.”
The statement continued, “She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life. We were so lucky to have a life with her. Individually and together, we cherished Christine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. She will be so very missed.”
— Fleetwood Mac (@fleetwoodmac) November 30, 2022
Christine McVie joined Fleetwood Mac in 1970 shortly after marrying bassist John McVie in 1969. She appeared on 12 of the band’s 17 studio albums. Additionally, she released three solo albums and collaborated with Lindsey Buckingham on the 2017 album Lindsey Buckingham Christine McVie. She was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 as a member of Fleetwood Mac.
Sheryl Crow did the honors of inducting Fleetwood Mac into the Rock Hall. She said of McVie and Stevie Nicks, “Christine McVie and Stevie Nicks are, in my estimation, the first ladies of rock and roll. Christine McVie made it cool to be the piano player in the band.”
Crow added, “She taught me that it’s not about being ‘pretty good for a chick.’ It’s about being great. She taught me that a driving rock song could be written on the piano. The first time I heard her sing ’Spare Me A Little [Of Your Love]” (from 1972’s Bare Trees) I was so blown away and I still have the same reaction to it when I revisit that song today.”
McVie famously stepped away from Fleetwood Mac in 1998 due to developing a fear of flying. She rejoined the band in 2014 and remained a member until her death.
McVie’s elegant voice, skillful keyboard playing and songwriting prowess had a major impact on Fleetwood Mac. She wrote/co-wrote some of the band’s biggest and best songs which are highlighted below.
5 Great Fleetwood Mac Songs Written by Christine McVie
