While their best-selling album,Rumours, is well documented,Fleetwood Mac has a rich history beyond the record, featuring many underrated tracks. In fact, they’re one of the most illustriousrock bands with over ten records. In total, they have 18 studio albums, which span multiple decades and include other material, such as 10 live albums and 23 compilation albums.
Throughout the years, they became one of thebands that changed lead singers. However, at the core, they have remained the same. Regardless of who was taking over the vocals,the magic has always been there. They have always possessed the ability to write meaningful hits that resonate passionately with listeners.
Since they are no longer touring and have become one of thebands you can only wish to see live, it makes their discography even more important. These records serve as the foundation of their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame career.Their memory carries on through these special tunes, from the beginning of their journey until the end.
10Sisters Of The Moon
Album: Tusk (1979)
Coming offRumoursin 1977, there were high expectations regarding what Fleetwood Mac would do next. Their follow-up album,Tusk, was released in 1979 and contained the song “Sisters of the Moon.” This was released as the fourth single from the record in the United States, whereit reached the 86th position on theBillboardHot 100.
Once everything kicked in, it gave the song a beautiful presence.
At this point, the band really focused on creating powerful instrumentals, which was evident in this song. Its atmosphere was captivating, featuring a slow build throughout. Once everything kicked in, it gave the song a beautiful presence, with an unforgettable guitar sound.Everything from the vocals to the instruments was used just enough, giving listeners the perfect mix.
9Station Man
Album: Kiln House (1970)
After their debut in 1968, they experimented with the sound they truly wanted as a group. One of the best additions they made to the bandwas bringing in Christine McVie. “Station Man” was one of the earlier songs in the band’s career, where she not only contributed ideas for the songwriting but also showcased her impressive vocals.
In this tune,McVie would duet with guitarist Danny Kirwan. Although Kirwan was only with the band in their early years, his contributions are remembered, and he is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with them. Beyond the vocals, the song is also recognized for its use of slide guitar and conga overdubs performed by Mick Fleetwood.
8Did You Ever Love Me
Album: Penguin (1973)
There was a lot going on with Fleetwood Mac’s albumPenguin. Danny Kirwan was out of the band at this point, and this record featured the additions of Bob Weston and Dave Walker. On the song “Did You Ever Love Me,“Weston showcased his vocal abilitiesas he performed a duet with Christine McVie on the track.
This song was a true masterpiece, as it was carefully crafted. They started with the keyboards, then the lyrics, and everything else had its place accordingly.The tune is also known for featuring steel drums, which was a unique addition. Although the song was never in their regular rotation, it was part of their 2024 compilation of their early work.
7Steal Your Heart Away
Album: Say You Will (2003)
After not releasing a new studio record since 1995, the band returned for their last studio album in 2003 withSay You Will. It was well-received,reaching the third spot on theBillboard200. One of the most special songs from it is “Steal Your Heart Away.” It serves as the 13th track, toward the end of this original 18-song album.
The songwriting is credited to Lindsey Buckingham, who truly shines on it. The song features tremendous harmonies and showcases the natural sweetness of the band. The lyrics are raw,creating an emotional atmosphere. The tune highlights a signature guitar riff and follows a common musical pattern for the band, making it easy to connect with.
6Crystal
Album: Fleetwood Mac (1975)
Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled 1975 album marked a significant change for the band, as it was the first to feature Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham.This is where a new side of the band was revealed, showcasing the new intricacies they possessed. One of the songs that the duo brought with them was “Crystal,” originally from their 1973 record.
It showcased Nicks' ability to write vulnerable lyrics, a trait that she would lend to the band many times.
It worked out well having Nicks and Buckingham bring one of their own tunes. The song was rerecorded andbecame known for its captivating melody. Additionally, it showcased Nicks' ability to write vulnerable lyrics, a trait that she would lend to the band many times. Eventually, the song’s legacy was enhanced by its use in the 1998 film,Practical Magic.
5As Long As You Follow
Album: Greatest Hits (1988)
Creating a compilation of greatest hits is a common practice in the music industry. Over the years, many of the best rock bands have seen tremendous success releasing this type of album. Fleetwood Mac tried their hand at this in 1988. However, they did something special byadding two new tracks here as well.
One of those songs was “As Long as You Follow.” On the track, Christine McVie performed the lead vocals after she and her then-husband wrote the song.This was another great love song from the band, again telling an intimate tale. It placed on three differentBillboardlistings, including a first-place ranking on the Adult Contemporary chart.
4Why
Album: Mystery To Me (1973)
Not only did their 1973 recordMystery to Mefeature one of their most memorable album covers, but it also saw the band moving toward a pop-rock sound that would ultimately help them reach their greatest heights. One of the highlights from this was the song “Why,“a track written by Christine McVie, which also featured her lead vocals.
Her singing ability on the track was smooth and dreamlike. As many of their great tunes do, this one featured a tremendous buildup before reaching its highest points. It culminated with a rich sound that showcased the type of journey the band could take listeners on. This tune remainsone of the special gems of McVie’s musical career.
3Book Of Love
Album: Mirage (1982)
The first studio album that the band released in the 1980s was Mirage. This record focused on their soft rock sound, a decision that would pay off for them. Many of the songs became hits on theBillboardcharts. However, one tune that didn’t get as much shine as it should have,was track number four, “Book of Love.”
This was one of the many tunes that featured lead vocals from Lindsey Buckingham, along with being co-written by him. The song has a layered instrumental with resounding harmonies.It was a perfect example of that pop sound they were going for, which captivated listeners as it fit well with the changing time period.
2Mystified
Album: Tango In The Night (1987)
Fleetwood Mac’s 14th studio album,Tango in the Night, arrived in 1987, and it was the last piece of work that Lindsey Buckingham contributed to until his return in 1997. While many tracks on the record were released as singles,a few did not make the cut. One of those was the last song on side one, “Mystified.”
The song had an uplifting production, creating their signature dreamlike atmosphere.
Although it did not receive a global spotlight, the tune is still fondly remembered by fans of the band. This song was written by Buckingham and Christine McVie, featuring lead vocals from her as well. The song had an uplifting production, creating their signature dreamlike atmosphere. Many viewed it asa bridge between their earlier and later eras.
1I’m So Afraid
One of the other special tracks that helped usher in their new era, which would become their most successful, was “I’m So Afraid.” This tune was the final track on their self-titled 1975 record,serving as the anchor for this important piece of the band’s history. This was a tune Nicks and Buckingham had plans for before joining the band.
Thankfully, they never scrapped the plans, and this is where the song would finally be featured. This tune was written and performed by Buckingham. In fact, it is one he would perform not only with the band but also during solo concerts (via Setlist.fm). This song is intense, with a darker atmosphere, andshowcases some of Buckingham’s best guitar work.
