Would you welcome an extended era of FM without SN?

[ryan4136]

What if SN took "her" break from the band, like LB and CM did? Would you welcome the 4 moving on without Stevie for 4-5 years? Releasing an album, then touring as a quartet again?

How about a set list (after a new album) like this? (A possible/likely combo)

1. Chain
2. Over My Head
3. Tango
4.New CM Song
5.New LB Song
6.NGBA
7. Eyes of the World
8. I know I'm not wrong
9. Think About Me
10. Not that Funny
11.Everywhere
12.New CM Song
13.New LB Song
14.You Make Lovin Fun
15.Steal your heart away
16. Come
17. Hold Me
18.I'm So Afraid
19. Don't Stop
20. Why
20. Go Your Own Way

Encroe
22. Tusk
23. Songbird

[MikeVielhaber]

Yes, absolutely, without hesitation. I find Stevie to be the one who's talents have faded the most with age (among other things) considering the only thing she does is sing. And I don't particularly find her that exciting to watch anymore. I would prefer an album with all 5, but since she's the one holding it up I have no problem with them carrying on without her since they're all on board and eager to do the thing.

If she took a 5 year break I doubt there's a band to come back to. I don't think they're going to last that much longer.

[elle]

What if SN took "her" break from the band, like LB and CM did? Would you welcome the 4 moving on without Stevie for 4-5 years? Releasing an album, then touring as a quartet again?

would love it!

multiple reasons -


moving forward, fast and lean, creatively.

finally getting those new songs, now!!

cheaper concert prices.

everybody on the stage having a good time and wanting to be there instead of just going through the motions.

potentially a bit smaller venues (although i guess amphitheaters, but would be nice to get some theaters and even clubs. Spandau Ballet is on a highly profitable tour now and they play bunch of clubs!).

and last but not least the reason why all of the above would be enabled - no more band politics!!

[James89]

People have differing views on all of this but for me, 100% no. Fleetwood Mac without Stevie is just not Fleetwood Mac. I love Christine's and Lindsey's work but no Dreams, GDW, Rhiannon, SOTM, Gypsy etc. I would no longer be interested.

[Silver Springs]

As much as Steve was my "gateway" Mac, I'm just not particularly fond of her music any longer. The occasional song I still love (Silver Springs, Sister Of The Moon, Landslide, etc) but if what we get from a new album with Steve involved is a Say You Will Part 2, then I can do without her. I just can't forgive her for that god awful Silver Girl. I don't know how that got through the first "filter".

[aleuzzi]

I'd welcome an album but the reality is they wouldn't tour without her. The shows wouldn't draw large crowds. And I don't think the remaining four would do a stripped-down tour as Lindsey did a few years ago.

But yes, I'd welcome a new album with new music with open arms.

[louielouie2000]

I think an album and tour without Stevie would be utterly refreshing- and this is coming from a Stevie fan. Her malcontent and refusal to allow forward motion in this band the last decade is unfair to the band and it's fans. Like someone else pointed out- look how amazing and on point Lindsey and Christine were during Tango when Stevie was largely absent. I think the band would become a much lighter, more enjoyable affair if Stevie were allowed to sit out the next 3-5 years. Then if Stevie wanted to come back for a farewell album and tour, it would be a nice full circle thing.

That being said... this plan pushes the band's timeline out nearly a decade. Do we think these folks will want all of that craziness when they're 80? I'm not so sure.

We also have other factors, too. The band told Christine she couldn't come & go- I have to imagine that would hold true for Stevie, too. And Mick has made it a point to say the Rumours 5 is the very final incarnation of the band, and they won't be altering the lineup from here on out. So the odds of Stevie being allowed to leave and return seem pretty slim. The band is on their home stretch, and they want to finish out in tact so they wrap things up with a pretty bow.

[sorcerer999]

Actually, YES! I think this is a great idea! I'd love to see what the foursome of Mick, John, Chris and Lindsey could do by themselves both in the studio and on stage. I think the absence of Stevie could be a fascinating experience. I wouldn't mind if they just mixed, mastered and released what they've already worked on last year!

That being said, I DO HOPE that before the Mac calls it quits, that they at least do one more album/tour with all 5. So if Stevie does take a break to rest and concentrate on her own projects, I hope it's not for too long, and that she'll recover some creativity and have the desire to record with them again. I believe that they could feasibly continue for another 5-8 years before some of the band members hit 80. But then I see people 80+ like Leonard Cohen who are still out there touring so who knows?

But I'm getting off topic, as usual. YES I'd be fascinated to experience a "Stevie-less" Fleetwood Mac record. And this is coming from someone who adores her and her music!

[sorcerer999]

LOL! ^^^ Posted this a couple of minutes after Louie! So yeah, basically what he said! ;)

[michelej1]

I'd welcome an album but the reality is they wouldn't tour without her. The shows wouldn't draw large crowds. And I don't think the remaining four would do a stripped-down tour as Lindsey did a few years ago.



I think you're right that they'd never tour without her. They're too skittish to even think of doing an album without her.

That said, I'd fully support an album with just the four of them and a tour with just them would be very interesting to me. I mean, I think a tour with all five of them is the most exciting, naturally. It's certainly better with her there and I'd look forward to her return to the fold a few years down the road, but as a once-in-a-lifetime thing, seeing what the four of them would do without her would be interesting.

Michele

[louielouie2000]

I believe that they could feasibly continue for another 5-8 years before some of the band members hit 80. But then I see people 80+ like Leonard Cohen who are still out there touring so who knows?

I've long said that I could see the band soldiering on into their 80s. After all, people like Pete Seger & BB King toured right up until the end of their lives, and they were far older than that. Bands like the Stones are a good deal older than FM and still going strong, too.

However, I think we're starting to see the strings unravel with this tour. FM will end up retiring not because of their physical abilities- but because they're just done. Done with the drama, the crazy schedules, etc.

but as a once-in-a-lifetime thing, seeing what the four of them would do without her would be interesting.

This is exactly how I felt when they moved forward with recording SYW minus Christine. I couldn't wait to see how it would alter Stevie and Lindsey's new music. Not because I disliked Christine, but I was just curious how it would distill the sound of the band. The same would go for nixing Stevie (see what I did there? :p). I have a feeling Christine & Lindsey would intermesh more without Stevie's presence, whereas the opposite was true of Stevie & Lindsey when Chris left.

[FuzzyPlum]

Bring it on!

I'd say any MJCL set list would need to include Isn't It Midnight, Got A Hold On Me, Brown Eyes, Little Lies, Go Insane, Big Love (still) and one more Lindsey solo song. Or, perhaps a few early Mac numbers; Oh Well? Black Magic Woman?
I think it would be a really happy album/tour/time for the band. Just do it guys!!!!

Not gonna happen though.

[michelej1]

This is exactly how I felt when they moved forward with recording SYW minus Christine. I couldn't wait to see how it would alter Stevie and Lindsey's new music. Not because I disliked Christine, but I was just curious how it would distill the sound of the band. The same would go for nixing Stevie (see what I did there? :p). I have a feeling Christine & Lindsey would intermesh more without Stevie's presence, whereas the opposite was true of Stevie & Lindsey when Chris left.

Yes, just the fact that they've worked on each other's songs from the start shows an integration between them that is promising and tantalizing to think about. Just give us their album and let us see what they're like. I mean, Tango was informative and this album would be even more so.

I always say that I dream in quintet, not stereo, but just this one time ...

They don't need to tour. In the old days, a tour was needed to promote an album, but this album won't sell more with a tour (well, unless they actually sold the album at the concert venue, which seems to be something they don't quite know how to do). People coming to the concert won't want to hear the new tunes anyway.

Profit would be the other reason to tour, but they're making a boatload of money right now. Can't that free them up to do something for purely creative reasons next year, now that their pockets are lined? Since the tour would be an even harder hurdle for them, they can forget about that and just give us an album.

Michele

[nicepace]

Yes!

A lineup of Fleetwood Mac led by Lindsey and Christine could be musically marvelous. I really don't think those two singer/songwriter/musicians need Stevie to be great. They can be great without her, and to my thinking, probably greater without her than with her, at this point.

[pauls90]

As much as I love Stevie, I would definitely be interested. I mean....I don't really play any of Stevie's contributions to Tango - but that record has some of LB and CM's best pop work on it (I will always be bummed out that Joan of Arc didn't make it though)

So here's my question: What kind of sound would you want to hear from the band without Stevie? With a lot of young trendy acts emulating them in general, what should a modern FM record even sound like??

[MikeVielhaber]

I think you're right that they'd never tour without her. They're too skittish to even think of doing an album without her.

That said, I'd fully support an album with just the four of them and a tour with just them would be very interesting to me. I mean, I think a tour with all five of them is the most exciting, naturally. It's certainly better with her there and I'd look forward to her return to the fold a few years down the road, but as a once-in-a-lifetime thing, seeing what the four of them would do without her would be interesting.

Michele

I don't really think she's all that critical to the other writers' songs. On Say You Will Lindsey had mostly already completed songs and shoehorned Stevie in on them. I was well familiar with Lindsey's GOS songs when SYW came out and I didn't think Stevie added much to them. I don't really think about it like "I wonder what they would do" because I don't really think it changes what they will do. She wouldn't be part of the creative process on those songs anyway. They just won't perform any songs by Stevie.

[MikeVielhaber]

I've long said that I could see the band soldiering on into their 80s. After all, people like Pete Seger & BB King toured right up until the end of their lives, and they were far older than that. Bands like the Stones are a good deal older than FM and still going strong, too.





Pete Seeger and BB King weren't putting on rock shows. Mick and Keith are the same age as Christine.

[jbrownsjr]

Let me count the ways, YES!!!
I've loved Stevie's work with FMac. But they have always been able to push on.

It could be that she's just tired and knows that if they release another album, there will be a tour. It makes sense.

LB, Mick can always work.. They love it.
CM is rested and ready to go for 30 more years.
JM does what he's told.

SN was complaining in 2003 and 2009 tours that she was tired of touring. I think she projected a little bit when she told Christine how hard it was. It's probably harder for her than the rest. She has to stand center stage. (yes, I'll give her a little credit) And, she has the most prolific solo work.

Having said that. The creativity between LB and CM is so tantamount to this band. I invite it lovingly!

[Frankenstein]

Even as someone whose favorite songwriter of the 3 is Stevie I'd welcome this idea with open arms. Maybe Fleetwood Mac would actually be a band again instead of a huge, money-making touring entity.

[sue]

At first I thought, No, no way.
But then I got thinking, I don't think we will see the five of them tour again.
They've made a shed load of money (so Mick should be happy)
I don't think Stevie's interested in touring again or making an Album as FM.
So yes let the remaining four make a new album
Stevie will make one with Dave Stewart and do a short Solo tour..

[MikeVielhaber]

At first I thought, No, no way.
But then I got thinking, I don't think we will see the five of them tour again.
They've made a shed load of money (so Mick should be happy)
I don't think Stevie's interested in touring again or making an Album as FM.
So yes let the remaining four make a new album
Stevie will make one with Dave Stewart and do a short Solo tour..

Stevie is basically doing the big/small machine thing now like Lindsey except she doesn't realize it.

[SisterNightroad]

What if SN took "her" break from the band, like LB and CM did? Would you welcome the 4 moving on without Stevie for 4-5 years? Releasing an album, then touring as a quartet again?

http://i2.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/facebook/000/007/423/untitle.JPG

[sorcerer999]

SN was complaining in 2003 and 2009 tours that she was tired of touring. I think she projected a little bit when she told Christine how hard it was. It's probably harder for her than the rest. She has to stand center stage. (yes, I'll give her a little credit)!

^^^ This!

I think the reality of the situation simply boils down to "bad timing". Christine decided to rejoin the band at a time when Fleetwood Mac was finishing up a world tour in 2013. Plus Stevie toured solo for most of 2011 and 2012 promoting "In Your Dreams". Arthritis, bad knees, and a bad back? The gal was (and still IS) exhausted!!! When the year ends, Stevie will have toured for FIVE solid years with maybe three or four months off per year.

Again, as much as I would love to see her soldier on, record a new Fleetwood Mac album and then (inevitably) tour to support it, I totally understand her desire to take a couple of years off. She deserves it.

On the other hand, if she decides to immediately record another solo record and go on tour to promote it instead of recording/touring with Fleetwood Mac, THAT will piss me right the f**k OFF!

If she says she needs a year to rest from touring, then she should do just that - REST from TOURING!

[pauls90]

On the other hand, if she decides to immediately record another solo record and go on tour to promote it instead of recording/touring with Fleetwood Mac, THAT will piss me right the f**k OFF!

If she says she needs a year to rest from touring, then she should do just that - REST from TOURING!

I have a sneaking feeling that this is what will happen though...

[MikeVielhaber]

I have a sneaking feeling that this is what will happen though...

yeah, I have no doubt she plans to go directly to doing solo stuff and promoting it with touring. "Tired" is an excuse. She hasn't worked harder than Lindsey and he can't wait to keep going. She just wants to be solo is all.

[sue]

yeah, I have no doubt she plans to go directly to doing solo stuff and promoting it with touring. "Tired" is an excuse. She hasn't worked harder than Lindsey and he can't wait to keep going. She just wants to be solo is all.

Looking back I think that's what she intended all along. She never did commit to a new FM Album and I think she only did the current tour because Christine returned.
She said I'll do the tour ( straight after a previous one) but I reckon she thinks she's paid her dues.......which she has.

[ryan4136]

Thanks for all the replies folks.

My opinion here....the foursome should finish an album...tell SN there is a spot for her to join it (in a timely manner) or they will release it as is. Personally I don't feel SN wants the band to release an album or tour without her. What she wants is her solo time and have them wait, and then be the "hero" when she's ready to come back. I do fear if they go on without her and release an album, it could extend her absence from 18 months to an indefinite number...possibly forever. And when she says she's tired of touring I think she simply means touring with LB. They need to take 6 months off after the tour finish the album....and put the ball in her court, and be ready to move on as a group. Odds are not good all will survive the next 10 years.

[twinmatrix]

After my first FM concert last night, yes, I would support an FM era without Stevie.

Christina and Lindsey were amazing. I would LOVE to see them again live! They're super entertaining!

Stevie was just a beautiful ghost of a woman.

I'm a huge Stevie fan but she really doesn't fit in with the rest of the band imo. I'd rather she pursue her solo career with a world tour while FM go on alone with their world tour.

[Hawkeye]

Even as someone whose favorite songwriter of the 3 is Stevie I'd welcome this idea with open arms. Maybe Fleetwood Mac would actually be a band again instead of a huge, money-making touring entity.

The irony to that is it's not stevie who wants these long cash grab tours at all. She'd probably be more willing to record if the damned tour wasn't so long. And I personally feel Stevie's actions on stage do not match what she says in interviews. I think her voice and engagement levels are the best they've been within fleetwood Mac since I first saw them in 2003. The lowpoint absolutely being that unleaded tour in 2009. While Storms was maybe my favorite single live performance I've ever seen stevie give, her engagement that tour was pathetic. She had the most unhappy look on her face and basically stood in the shadows if she wasn't singing. This tour has not been like that.

Now after all that defending I'd honestly be fine and almost welcome that scenerio. Especially after viewing your fake set. Stevie could focus on what she really wants to do towards the end of her career and i would absolutely be attending both Stevie's solo or side projects and the new fleetwood Mac.

Sadly I just don't think it would be possible at this point. I think it's gonna have to be the 5 or nothing from here on out from the bands perspective.

[SorcererJP]

What if SN took "her" break from the band, like LB and CM did? Would you welcome the 4 moving on without Stevie for 4-5 years? Releasing an album, then touring as a quartet again?

How about a set list (after a new album) like this? (A possible/likely combo)



A hard question, I became a fan of FM back in 1987 because of Stevie. Never cared that much for Lindsey's songs.

That changed in 2004 when I saw them in Oberhausen. I completely felt for his type of playing and energy on stage.

Yes, the only thing Stevie does is sing .. but hey ... that is what she does. Us fans want to hear those songs and see Stevie spinning etc.

A Stevie-less FM we had with the Time line-up. But on the other hand; this would be different, so Yes, I will attend!

[snroxman]

Yes, I would welcome the change. Something fresh!

[Macfanforever]

At this point with multiple threads about this upcoming album is getting stale and tiring .

As a Stevie fan.NO.

But I'll still be a fan of FM forever go on .But the shows would be boring without her tunes unless Chris sings some of them.
Chris will make things interesting like Stevie did when Chris retired years ago.

[nicole21290]

They're welcome to do it (though they won't), but I wouldn't be interested in an album except to hear Lindsey's songs, and I wouldn't be interested in a tour.

I'm in that very unpopular tiny minority who just has no interest in Christine's songs whatsoever and so it just has no appeal for me. I love Stevie and Lindsey individually, and I love them together within Fleetwood Mac's context, but a FM tour or album without Stevie? No thanks.

:sorry:

[teedeerocks]

yeah, I have no doubt she plans to go directly to doing solo stuff and promoting it with touring. "Tired" is an excuse. She hasn't worked harder than Lindsey and he can't wait to keep going. She just wants to be solo is all.

Yes she is very tired - tired of THEM.

[Montclare]

Although I'd prefer the five of them, I'd be fine without Stevie. It'd give us more of a chance to hear deeper cuts from Lindsey and Christine. Plus, like Elle said, lower ticket costs and possibly better seats.

My set list idea-

1. The Chain
2. Spare Me a Little
3. Secondhand News
4. Love in Store
5. I Know I'm Not Wrong
6. New Christine
7. New Lindsey
8. Brown Eyes
9. The Ledge
10. Never Make Me Cry
11. Never Going Back Again
12. Why
13. Big Love
14. Hold Me
15. That's Enough for Me
16. Little Lies
17. New Lindsey
18. New Christine
19. I'm So Afraid
20. Don't Stop
21. Tusk
22. World Turning
23. Go Your Own Way
24. Songbird

[lilyfee]

Even as someone whose favorite songwriter of the 3 is Stevie I'd welcome this idea with open arms. Maybe Fleetwood Mac would actually be a band again instead of a huge, money-making touring entity.

Feel this.:nod:

[michelej1]

At this point with multiple threads about this upcoming album is getting stale and tiring .



Oh, you know the truth is, we will probably have at least 20 more threads about this album until it finally materializes, so it's not going to get any better. And if we never get another album, there will be thousand more threads about it and why it didn't happen and why we're mad, until we all die or the website shuts down. So, it's not going to be any less stale or tiring any time soon.

Michele

[SteveMacD]

"Tired" is an excuse. She hasn't worked harder than Lindsey and he can't wait to keep going.
Lindsey hasn't been diagnosed with Epstein-Barr syndrome.

[cactusjack]

haha, omg. I'd be fine with it as I'm really only there for Stevie. I'd be happy to follow her solo career and take a break from FMac fandom.

[sue]

Yes she is very tired - tired of THEM.

Totally in agreement. She's not exhausted she just wants to get on with her Solo work.....

[louielouie2000]

On the other hand, if she decides to immediately record another solo record and go on tour to promote it instead of recording/touring with Fleetwood Mac, THAT will piss me right the f**k OFF!!

yeah, I have no doubt she plans to go directly to doing solo stuff and promoting it with touring. "Tired" is an excuse. She hasn't worked harder than Lindsey and he can't wait to keep going. She just wants to be solo is all.

Yeah, she's talked about Songs From The Vault 2 since before she released the first one. So my money is on her immediately hitting the studio and banging another one out, then doing a Spring/Summer solo tour where she promotes both albums. Maybe, just maybe, after that she will be open to recording with FM.

[Nick]

I would check out new music from them but I think they should release solo material instead of making another Fleetwood Mac album if the entire group is not willing. Let's have a proper follow up to "Tango". If Stevie sits out, I will totally lose respect for her.

[Aussie W/Heart]

NO WAY will the other 4 members do a new album without Stevie, not this late in the game anyway.. They wouldn't have the balls to leave her out, and nor should they.. Her band mates have more respect than to pull that one on her..

As we all know, Stevie's plans fizzled out when Christine decided to rejoin the band, the pressure was on again for another world tour with F/M. To top that off the unexpected extra touring dates which almost doubled in size. A major factor Stevie feels like she is DONE, TIRED, over F/M or whatever. So who can blame her for getting cranky, put yourselves in her shoes/boots.

Anyway after this long grueling tour a well deserved break , she'll either record a few songs with F/Mac in late 2016 or go solo, do a short tour promoting 24 Karat Gold :thumbsup:

[MikeVielhaber]

NO WAY will the other 4 members do a new album without Stevie, not this late in the game anyway.. They wouldn't have the balls to leave her out, and nor should they.. Her band mates have more respect than to pull that one on her..

As we all know, Stevie's plans fizzled out when Christine decided to rejoin the band, the pressure was on again for another world tour with F/M. To top that off the unexpected extra touring dates which almost doubled in size. A major factor Stevie feels like she is DONE, TIRED, over F/M or whatever. So who can blame her for getting cranky, put yourselves in her shoes/boots.

Anyway after this long grueling tour a well deserved break , she'll either record a few songs with F/Mac in late 2016 or go solo, do a short tour promoting 24 Karat Gold :thumbsup:

So if Stevie says she doesn't want to do an album then they should just call it a day even though Lindsey and Christine are raring to go and have the songs (That they wrote together) to prove it? They also can finish those songs without any contribution from Stevie and they won't be much different. Just because they won't share space with an album with a few Stevie songs doesn't seem like a good enough reason to believe they shouldn't be released. They aren't solo songs either.

[FuzzyPlum]

NO WAY will the other 4 members do a new album without Stevie, not this late in the game anyway.. They wouldn't have the balls to leave her out, and nor should they.. Her band mates have more respect than to pull that one on her..



Respect is a two way thing. They certainly respect her but that respect is wearing very thin. I hope Christine stands up for them- she has more balls than the men.




As we all know, Stevie's plans fizzled out when Christine decided to rejoin the band, the pressure was on again for another world tour with F/M. To top that off the unexpected extra touring dates which almost doubled in size. A major factor Stevie feels like she is DONE, TIRED, over F/M or whatever. So who can blame her for getting cranky, put yourselves in her shoes/boots.

Anyway after this long grueling tour a well deserved break , she'll either record a few songs with F/Mac in late 2016 or go solo, do a short tour promoting 24 Karat Gold :thumbsup:

Late 2016? When I get exhausted I allow myself a ten day holiday somewhere warm and sunny. I don't get why she needs the best part of a whole year to recuperate (one eightieth of a lifetime). Have a month off dear- you'll be as good as new. Then get back to work.

[ryan4136]

What would get under Stevie's skin more, a new FM record without her or a duet album called Buckingham/McVie :shrug:

[FuzzyPlum]

What would get under Stevie's skin more, a new FM record without her or a duet album called Buckingham/McVie :shrug:

Ha, that's a damned good question.
I really don't know.

[sue]

With or without Stevie, there is a nag at the back of my mind .......the album won't be very good...
Its just a nagging thought at the back of my mind. I hope not but its just there.

[MikeVielhaber]

With or without Stevie, there is a nag at the back of my mind .......the album won't be very good...
Its just a nagging thought at the back of my mind. I hope not but its just there.

Lindsey and Christine working together. It's hard for me to foresee that not resulting in something good.

[Macfanforever]

Oh, you know the truth is, we will probably have at least 20 more threads about this album until it finally materializes, so it's not going to get any better. And if we never get another album, there will be thousand more threads about it and why it didn't happen and why we're mad, until we all die or the website shuts down. So, it's not going to be any less stale or tiring any time soon.

Michele

I agree.LOL.. Or our faces turn blue by the time it will be done. Give them time.We know FM moves slow like a snake on a glass floor and years to get something done..

[FuzzyPlum]

With or without Stevie, there is a nag at the back of my mind .......the album won't be very good...
Its just a nagging thought at the back of my mind. I hope not but its just there.

I have a nagging thought it's all really great which is making it all the more difficult to wait.

[nicepace]

With or without Stevie, there is a nag at the back of my mind .......the album won't be very good...
Its just a nagging thought at the back of my mind. I hope not but its just there.

I so totally disagree. Without Stevie, this album will be great. Lindsey and Christine, from all accounts, are thrilled to be resurrecting their creative partnership. They've done a lot of the recording already and are excited to finish it up.

I honestly don't think Stevie can add any benefit to the new album at this point, other than her name recognition. From a musical perspective, they'd be better off without her.

[ryan4136]

Lindsey and Christine working together. It's hard for me to foresee that not resulting in something good.

This is my thought as well. Maybe it would get stale over time if they tried to do multiple albums together, but I think with all the time since the last time they recorded together, they'd put something pretty magical together the first go around. If they decided to not go the "Creative" route and went down more of a "lets write songs for/with eachothers skills in mind" like they did for Rumours, and Tango.....yeah that could be really wonderful. :thumbsup:

[AnthonyMI]

Personally, No.

I would not like it. There are a few good songs on Tango I like, and they are Christine's. I do not care for any of Lind's and Stevie's were crap because she didn't put in the work and wasn't present.

The best FM albums were the first three or four. They were all present. They gave it all their best effort. There was a cohesive sound through all songs. Each artist was present either vocally or playing and instrument. They were a band.

For me the FM I like is the Rumours 5. There may be a few good songs on a NEw Non-N album, but it wont hold a place in my heart as a complete one. Same as Say You Will. It just felt hollow without Christine. It will feel hollow without Stevie.

Do I think the recording will go smoothly with Stevie wanting her way? Yes.
Do I think it will have a cohesive sound? Yes.
Will it SOUND like a FM album? I guess as far as an FM album can sound on digital modern recording and modern terrible mastering.
Will It be have that "Magic" That happens when I hear the first four albums of the Rumours 5? Unlikely.

Will I buy it? Oh yes. certainly.
Will I pretend that I can hear Stevie when LB modifies his voice to sound like her? Yes
Will I jumble it up with Solo Stevie songs of the same era and make my own playlist which includes Stevie anyhow? Yes.

BUT I WANT Stevie's songs arranged as a group by LB and CM and MF and JM. I WANT that FM sound of the 5 on her tracks. I do not want a Stevie nicks Solo track sounding song on an FM album.

[jbrownsjr]

Respect is a two way thing. They certainly respect her but that respect is wearing very thin. I hope Christine stands up for them- she has more balls than the men.




Late 2016? When I get exhausted I allow myself a ten day holiday somewhere warm and sunny. I don't get why she needs the best part of a whole year to recuperate (one eightieth of a lifetime). Have a month off dear- you'll be as good as new. Then get back to work.

First World Elite problems. :lol:

[Murrow]

Abso-flippin-lutely!

They've already proved that they only need four out of the five to make a decent album (cf BTM, SYW). They've had their "Now we can all be creative with no Lindsey" era (BTM line-up). Now they can have their "Stevie wouldn't pull her weight so we've carried on" era. The five-piece is still OK for the odd tour but Styx and Journey weren't prepared to wait when their respective frontment announced they were taking a break just as a tour was about to happen. The four musicians (and within the group Stevie is not one) have got their collective mojo working and there's no reason they should let SN hold them up.

I bought my ticket for last Wednesday's London show chiefly because I hoped they would have something new to promote by then. But no... same old same old. Some of the Rumours songs badly need a break now having had a good airing from The Dance onwards.

So my advice to Mick... let Stevie rest as much as she wants to. But you've got an album going and a dynamic going and she never likes what Lindsey does with her songs so... time for the Buckingham/McVie quartet I'd say.

[SteveMacD]

I'd rather have all five, and I think that's ultimately what we're going to get, but having them go on as a quartet certainly has its merits, and I'd gladly welcome it. Not having to deal with Stevie would make life a lot easier for them in terms of going on as a band. Not having Stevie's seven or eight songs would make room for more new material in the set. Even if Stevie left after the European leg, Christine and Lindsey have enough material between them to soldier on without her. Hold Me, God A Hold On Me, Isn't It Midnight, Get Like You Used To Be (with just Mick, John, and Christine), Trouble, Go Insane, Oh Well, and Monday Morning could easily be added in place of Stevie's songs.

[jbrownsjr]

I'd rather have all five, and I think that's ultimately what we're going to get, but having them go on as a quartet certainly has its merits, and I'd gladly welcome it. Not having to deal with Stevie would make life a lot easier for them in terms of going on as a band. Not having Stevie's seven or eight songs would make room for more new material in the set. Even if Stevie left after the European leg, Christine and Lindsey have enough material between them to soldier on without her. Hold Me, God A Hold On Me, Isn't It Midnight, Get Like You Used To Be (with just Mick, John, and Christine), Trouble, Go Insane, Oh Well, and Monday Morning could easily be added in place of Stevie's songs.

You really have me thinking about the amazing artistic things they could do. Without SN, they could drop all the commercial requirements and really please both segments of their fans. Christine has some amazing solo tunes she could bring forth.

[colors flashin']

I think Stevie taking a break would be the best thing for her. Lets face it at their ages, a 4-5 year break would in effect be forever but maybe it is time to say farewell.

The rest of the band members need the Fleetwood Mac name in order to get attention for their music. Stevie is the only one with a viable solo career.

I would love to see Stevie say Adios to FM and all the drama. Lindsey will never forgive Stevie for dumping him years ago and then having a more successful solo career than him. No matter that he is happily married now, his ego still can't let him get pasted being dumped and out shown via her solo career.

Lindsey uses his position in the band to punish her any chance he gets. :nod:

[MikeVielhaber]

I think Stevie taking a break would be the best thing for her. Lets face it at their ages, a 4-5 year break would in effect be forever but maybe it is time to say farewell.

The rest of the band members need the Fleetwood Mac name in order to get attention for their music. Stevie is the only one with a viable solo career.

I would love to see Stevie say Adios to FM and all the drama. Lindsey will never forgive Stevie for dumping him years ago and then having a more successful solo career than him. No matter that he is happily married now, his ego still can't let him get pasted being dumped and out shown via her solo career.

Lindsey uses his position in the band to punish her any chance he gets. :nod:

This is based in fantasy land. You may be overstating the viability of her solo career. I doubt she, on her own, could play much bigger than what Lindsey at this point. By on her own I mean not packaged with another performer as She has in the recent past. She also doesn't sell many albums either. Fleetwood Mac is a bigger name than Stevie Nicks, no question. Theut sell more than her even if neither would light up the sales charts.

I think at this stage Lindsey has fully acknowledged and accepted where his solo career stands. He doesn't need the money and his satisfaction isn't based on popularity, unlike Stevie. And if Fleetwood Mac ceased to be he'd go right back to doing a solo album. He's not doing Fleetwood Mac because it's more viable, he's doing it because he loves working with the band.

[jbrownsjr]

This is based in fantasy land. You may be overstating the viability of her solo career. I doubt she, on her own, could play much bigger than what Lindsey at this point. By on her own I mean not packaged with another performer as She has in the recent past. She also doesn't sell many albums either. Fleetwood Mac is a bigger name than Stevie Nicks, no question. Theut sell more than her even if neither would light up the sales charts.

I think at this stage Lindsey has fully acknowledged and accepted where his solo career stands. He doesn't need the money and his satisfaction isn't based on popularity, unlike Stevie. And if Fleetwood Mac ceased to be he'd go right back to doing a solo album. He's not doing Fleetwood Mac because it's more viable, he's doing it because he loves working with the band.

The sad part is, she makes everything about her vs them. And Lindsey is the bulk of it. I supposed some Mick, too.

[Montclare]

The rest of the band members need the Fleetwood Mac name in order to get attention for their music. Stevie is the only one with a viable solo career.

Define viable. Lindsey seems quite happy with his solo career. He gave up the idea of selling millions and being on top of the charts decades ago. He may not sell as well as Stevie (and let's be honest, she's not selling millions either), but he always gets great reviews.

I would love to see Stevie say Adios to FM and all the drama.

She seems to be the one causing the drama. The other four all seem happy to be playing/recording together. It's been a long time since you saw stories about Christine and John not getting along, Lindsey and Mick fighting, etc.


Lindsey uses his position in the band to punish her any chance he gets. :nod:

You mean like when he helped make Dreams, Sara, Gypsy, etc into hits?

[louielouie2000]

This is based in fantasy land. You may be overstating the viability of her solo career. I doubt she, on her own, could play much bigger than what Lindsey at this point. By on her own I mean not packaged with another performer as She has in the recent past. She also doesn't sell many albums either. Fleetwood Mac is a bigger name than Stevie Nicks, no question. Theut sell more than her even if neither would light up the sales charts.

I think at this stage Lindsey has fully acknowledged and accepted where his solo career stands. He doesn't need the money and his satisfaction isn't based on popularity, unlike Stevie. And if Fleetwood Mac ceased to be he'd go right back to doing a solo album. He's not doing Fleetwood Mac because it's more viable, he's doing it because he loves working with the band.

Yeah, I have a feeling if Stevie tries to go back to touring 10,000-20,000 seat amphitheaters solo she'll be in for a very humbling awakening. Especially since the market has been saturated with her presence the past few years due to these consecutive Mac tours. I don't get the feeling that's what's going to happen, though. If Stevie does tour next year it will likely be in a new way- as an opening artist (again), or doing smaller theater type venues in only the larger key North American markets. She definitely wants to get her 24k songs before live audiences, and take a break from FM. Any tour would likely be abbreviated, though- simply because I just don't see a larger tour being sustainable at this point.

[Dreams Unwind]

I would welcome a new FM album w/o Stevie, however I wouldn't love her not being on it. And if they did a tour w/o her, I personally would not care about seeing it. I'm a Stevie fan, can you tell (not that I don't like the other's work).

As far as the whole Stevie situation currently, I think she is just exhausted. She has been touring for a few years straight now. Plus, this has been a massive tour. I'm certain it's not the most uplifting environment for her. It never has been though, has it? Of course she is wanting time away from FM after being with them for so long, just to work on her solo stuff. Stevie is totally looking forward to July to relax from it all. In that time she will either A) Work on solo stuff or B ) relax and work on solo stuff after November.

She isn't really needing a couple of years away from FM, just a few months or so to relax, work on solo stuff (at her own time and pace), and reconnect with herself. Then, say in the second half of 2016, work on the new FM album and talk about doing a tour. I think it would be great if they released a new album in 2017 and did another (though not so big) world tour in line with the 40th anniversary of Rumours. Then, if they wanted to, end it all there. It'd be kind of fitting, I think.

There, that's my two cents.

[PenguinHead]

How much more should we expect from them? They are not immortal. Mick has stated that they will be wrapping up in the next year or so. This tour has been somewhat of a victory lap. The most we can hope from them is one final album. Of course it would be suitable for Stevie to be part of it. If she opts out of it for her own selfish reasons, so be it. (Just wait for her to express regrets for her decision years later).

There is no reason why they can't finish and release the album sans Stevie. The band has a history of carrying on despite loosing key members. Buckingham McVie is powerful artistic entity unto themselves. And from what they have told us, they are very proud of the songs they created together. At this end point, it's not about sales or chart success or touring. It's about giving their fans a goodbye note in the form of an album, especially poignant because of Christine's contributions.

When Fleetwood Mac ceases, I guess we'll have some solo albums and re-releases, and compilations to look forward to.

[Dreams Unwind]

I know that they aren't immoral and all, but I feel like they could make it to 2017. Given that they have the end of 2015 through 2016 to do work and other things.

Mick did say in MOJO that this line-up would be it. Meaning nobody leaving. So why would they do another album w/o Stevie? Especially if it were their last. I'm sure we can expect at least one Stevie song on there.

Also, I know Mick said that this would be the last act and all, but when did he say just a year or so to wrap up?

[MikeVielhaber]

Mick did say that about it being the last lineup, but perhaps he didn't anticipate one of the members at this stage in the game being uncooperative and completely not into it. So maybe that's just how he pictured it playing out at the time he said that. We don't really know if he would really call it quits if Stevie refused to participate, but I kind of doubt it. He's well aware of the ticking clock and knows they have more to give. He's already taken part in said more to give.

[PenguinHead]

This is based in fantasy land. I think at this stage Lindsey has fully acknowledged and accepted where his solo career stands. He doesn't need the money and his satisfaction isn't based on popularity, unlike Stevie. And if Fleetwood Mac ceased to be he'd go right back to doing a solo album. He's not doing Fleetwood Mac because it's more viable, he's doing it because he loves working with the band.


Reasoned and well stated.

[PenguinHead]

I know that they aren't immoral and all, but I feel like they could make it to 2017. Given that they have the end of 2015 through 2016 to do work and other things.

Mick did say in MOJO that this line-up would be it. Meaning nobody leaving. So why would they do another album w/o Stevie? Especially if it were their last. I'm sure we can expect at least one Stevie song on there.

Also, I know Mick said that this would be the last act and all, but when did he say just a year or so to wrap up?

When Mick said this line up would be the last, he meant it from an over all perspective, with no consideration to Stevie's intentions. Christine and Lindsey wrote a bunch of new songs that they very excited about. Of course they want Stevie to be a part of the album, but if she opts out, why should that stop them from finishing the album? This band has survived and persevered through many members who came and went. This is no different, except that their future is largely behind them.

[LesPaulPlayer91]

I wouldn't mind an album/tour without Stevie, especially if it's the only way to get another Fleetwood Mac album. Behind The Mask and Say You Will are good, solid albums in my opinion so they've shown they can make great music without all of the 'classic five' present.

Having said that, practically, I just can't see it happening. The current tour's such a huge draw because all five of them are together again. All the publicity has been focused on the fact that the classic lineup is back together again. It would be a huge anticlimax if they were to announce an album/tour without Stevie not long the five of them were together again for the first time in years. It would also no doubt have a big impact on ticket sales. Plus, the current shows have shown just how much was lacking whilst Christine was out of the band, not that the last few years haven't been good, they have just shown how much better is it when they're all together. Stevie's just such an integral part of the band I can't see it happening - I mean would the Stones tour without Keith Richards?

[Dr.Brown]

I know that they aren't immoral and all...

Ummm, the people behind this video seem to disagree::shocked:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d6xG06r2fN4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[nicepace]

I know that they aren't immoral and all ...

I apologize; I don't usually make a habit of making fun of typos. But the missing letter T makes this one pretty funny. Maybe it was what we used to call a Freudian slip, and not a typo at all? Considering that this thread has largely been about some of the band members not treating each other very nicely.

[Dr.Brown]

Sorry, no need to apologise. I just couldn't resist taking the opportunity to post that video. Isn't it weird?:rolleyes:

For the record, I don't really care how it's released (as an official FM or side project) as long we get to hear the new music before they're forced to release it posthumously as Fleetwood Mac: Songs from the Crypt.:p

[LesPaulPlayer91]

For the record, I don't really care how it's released (as an official FM or side project) as long we get to hear the new music before they're forced to release it posthumously as Fleetwood Mac: Songs from the Crypt.:p

Whilst it would never happen I think Christine and Lindsey releasing it together and doing some theatre shows as a duo would be amazing. Would kill to see any of the FM guys in a non arena venue. A man can dream!

[Dr.Brown]

Whilst it would never happen I think Christine and Lindsey releasing it together and doing some theatre shows as a duo would be amazing. Would kill to see any of the FM guys in a non arena venue. A man can dream!

Agreed, and I'd lay down a good chunk of money if instead of a "Meet and Greet" they offered to perform a small pre-concert set of their new songs in an intimate venue.

[jbrownsjr]

Agreed, and I'd lay down a good chunk of money if instead of a "Meet and Greet" they offered to perform a small pre-concert set of their new songs in an intimate venue.

That would be so worth it!

[nicepace]

Whilst it would never happen I think Christine and Lindsey releasing it together and doing some theatre shows as a duo would be amazing.

Why would it never happen? If they put out a "duo" album, maybe they would wind up playing medium-sized theaters (the Orpheum in Boston, that sort of place). For me (as someone who isn't a huge Stevie fan), that would be a dream come true.

By the way, off topic, did you know today is Les Paul's 100th birthday? With your screen name I thought you'd like that.

[jbrownsjr]

Why would it never happen? If they put out a "duo" album, maybe they would wind up playing medium-sized theaters (the Orpheum in Boston, that sort of place). For me (as someone who isn't a huge Stevie fan), that would be a dream come true.

By the way, off topic, did you know today is Les Paul's 100th birthday? With your screen name I thought you'd like that.

Some think it would never happen because Mick worries about money. And for them to step down to one plane, one limo, one hotel room, ..... the agony!!!

In my mind, it would make them a band again. Instead of this fake relationship act, with two musicians who know how to write without the help of 20 other people.

[LesPaulPlayer91]

Why would it never happen? If they put out a "duo" album, maybe they would wind up playing medium-sized theaters (the Orpheum in Boston, that sort of place). For me (as someone who isn't a huge Stevie fan), that would be a dream come true.

By the way, off topic, did you know today is Les Paul's 100th birthday? With your screen name I thought you'd like that.

I doubt that they'd put out a duo album. I imagine they'd rather wait for Stevie and put the tracks out as a FM record than start from scratch. A FM reunion album would be a huge deal - look at the response Black Sabbath's 'reunion' album got (and that wasn't the complete classic lineup). Stevie won't be doing her solo stuff for that long if she does do it. I'd say we'd be seeing a FM album in 2017 at the latest. But who knows? I agree it would be a dream come true. I'm really not a huge fan of arena shows and I'd love to see any of the guys in a smaller venue. I'd be all up for a duo album I'm just trying to be realistic. I really hope Lindsey does come and do that theatre tour of the UK he was going to do a few years back though.

And yeah! :) The man was a true musical pioneer!

[Montclare]

Ummm, the people behind this video seem to disagree::shocked:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d6xG06r2fN4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

What the...?

I honestly couldn't figure out if that was real or satire for awhile. Some people... :lol:

[jmn3]

Ummm, the people behind this video seem to disagree::shocked:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d6xG06r2fN4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Oh my.....wow.....you just want to tell the guy who's talking throughout about wicked witchery to go get laid...

[TsnFan4Ever]

I really hope they do a last album together--with all five of them. I think Stevie just needs a break and then will be ready to contribute to it. Let's not forget that she put her plans to tour 24K Gold on hold--which resulted in dismal sales for her own possibly last album.

Adding to the tension is likely the collaboration that Lindsey and Christine had--which likely has fueled some negative feelings in Stevie. She always wanted Lindsey to co-write with her and he's never been willing to do so. Then as soon as Christine came back, they wrote several songs together? My bet is that she's likely been very upset about that alone--however much she likes Christine--and that could be another reason why she wants to have some space. Combine that with the tension that almost always exists when Stevie and Lindsey work together and there's going to be some hurt feelings. Let her have some time to calm down and then she'll be ready to make the album.

If the four of them release it without her, personally, I would not buy it and my interest in the band would be completely over. And unless they want to make a permanent break with Stevie--which I don't think they do--they won't do anything without her. She will never ever forgive them. And that would be a really tragic way to end this wonderful reunion tour.

[MikeVielhaber]

I really hope they do a last album together--with all five of them. I think Stevie just needs a break and then will be ready to contribute to it. Let's not forget that she put her plans to tour 24K Gold on hold--which resulted in dismal sales for her own possibly last album.

Adding to the tension is likely the collaboration that Lindsey and Christine had--which likely has fueled some negative feelings in Stevie. She always wanted Lindsey to co-write with her and he's never been willing to do so. Then as soon as Christine came back, they wrote several songs together? My bet is that she's likely been very upset about that alone--however much she likes Christine--and that could be another reason why she wants to have some space. Combine that with the tension that almost always exists when Stevie and Lindsey work together and there's going to be some hurt feelings. Let her have some time to calm down and then she'll be ready to make the album.

If the four of them release it without her, personally, I would not buy it and my interest in the band would be completely over. And unless they want to make a permanent break with Stevie--which I don't think they do--they won't do anything without her. She will never ever forgive them. And that would be a really tragic way to end this wonderful reunion tour.

She's the one who is holding up the reunion, she hasn't said "I'd like to do an album but just not right now". She has not said she wants to do an album and considering we're going on 12 years since the last album almost entirely because of her I don't see a reason to assume she just needs a short rest and then she'll be raring to go. Until her attitude changes I don't think it's a safe assumption. I think maybe she'd be happy to just tour with FM from now on mixed with solo stints. Make no mistake, She's not the victim in this scenario. She doesn't get to dictate to 4 other equal partners what they get to do with their careers.

[aleuzzi]

...Adding to the tension is likely the collaboration that Lindsey and Christine had--which likely has fueled some negative feelings in Stevie. She always wanted Lindsey to co-write with her and he's never been willing to do so. Then as soon as Christine came back, they wrote several songs together? My bet is that she's likely been very upset about that alone...

I doubt this. Stevie has not wanted to write with Lindsey since her early days with the band. When Lindsey and Christine wrote "World Turning" she admitted jealousy (from a Dance-era interview). But the truth was then, and now, she and Lindsey didn't/don't write together. Much of this is because Stevie is very protective of her songs and resented her reliance on him. When she got her own career together, she pretty much found others to help her build up songs. She resented working with Lindsey during Say You Will and has shunned Studio collaborations with him since then. The only material she has given the band since 2003 is a reworking of a BN demo. Hardly promising. Lindsey has expressed interest in working with her again, and she keeps pushing him and the band away. If she's upset by Lundsey and Christine collaborating, it's because their output is kind of forcing her hand to join them--and she simply doesn't want to.

[Dreams Unwind]

When Mick said this line up would be the last, he meant it from an over all perspective, with no consideration to Stevie's intentions. Christine and Lindsey wrote a bunch of new songs that they very excited about. Of course they want Stevie to be a part of the album, but if she opts out, why should that stop them from finishing the album? This band has survived and persevered through many members who came and went. This is no different, except that their future is largely behind them.

You're right, if Stevie simply didn't want to be a part of it at all then that shouldn't stop them. However, I think Stevie still wants to be a part of it, but just wants to work on other things at the moment. If they are just 100% ready to get it out, but still don't have Stevie tracks, then they should tell her and if she declines, so be it. BUT, with this probably being their last album, would the record company be okay will all of that? That's also something to think about.

[jbrownsjr]

She's the one who is holding up the reunion, she hasn't said "I'd like to do an album but just not right now". She has not said she wants to do an album and considering we're going on 12 years since the last album almost entirely because of her I don't see a reason to assume she just needs a short rest and then she'll be raring to go. Until her attitude changes I don't think it's a safe assumption. I think maybe she'd be happy to just tour with FM from now on mixed with solo stints. Make no mistake, She's not the victim in this scenario. She doesn't get to dictate to 4 other equal partners what they get to do with their careers.

I should have put this here.. :lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v301/jbrownsjr/trufmac2.png

[Dreams Unwind]

I apologize; I don't usually make a habit of making fun of typos. But the missing letter T makes this one pretty funny. Maybe it was what we used to call a Freudian slip, and not a typo at all? Considering that this thread has largely been about some of the band members not treating each other very nicely.

:laugh: Simply a typo.

[PenguinHead]

Define viable. Lindsey seems quite happy with his solo career. He gave up the idea of selling millions and being on top of the charts decades ago. He may not sell as well as Stevie (and let's be honest, she's not selling millions either), but he always gets great reviews.



She seems to be the one causing the drama. The other four all seem happy to be playing/recording together. It's been a long time since you saw stories about Christine and John not getting along, Lindsey and Mick fighting, etc.




You mean like when he helped make Dreams, Sara, Gypsy, etc into hits?


Thanks for addressing some of the many misconceptions and misguided assumptions.

[MikeVielhaber]

You're right, if Stevie simply didn't want to be a part of it at all then that shouldn't stop them. However, I think Stevie still wants to be a part of it, but just wants to work on other things at the moment. If they are just 100% ready to get it out, but still don't have Stevie tracks, then they should tell her and if she declines, so be it. BUT, with this probably being their last album, would the record company be okay will all of that? That's also something to think about.

They don't have a record company. They are not under any contract. I'm sure they would do the same thing they did with SYW and that is complete the album and then shop it around. Someone will surely be interested. Lindsey, on his own, released several of his albums, including Gift of Screws and Under the Skin, on Reprise, the same company that released Say You Will.

[Macfanforever]

I should have put this here.. :lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v301/jbrownsjr/trufmac2.png

Hahahahaha.That reminds me of those old night soaps like Dallas or Dynasty.

[Dreams Unwind]

They don't have a record company. They are not under any contract. I'm sure they would do the same thing they did with SYW and that is complete the album and then shop it around. Someone will surely be interested. Lindsey, on his own, released several of his albums, including Gift of Screws and Under the Skin, on Reprise, the same company that released Say You Will.

Oh, ok. Thank you for telling me that.

[redbird]

I always thought that Stevie, Lindsey, and Christine can do a lot of magic together. Also, at the end of the day, Stevie is probably my favorite Mac songwriter. But any music is better than no music, and if Stevie is happier without Fleetwood Mac and Fleetwood Mac might actually put something out without Stevie, it seems like it would be mutually beneficial. And I'm curious what Lindsey and Chris would come up with, provided that they focus less on the glossy pop side, and more on blues and weirdness. I would miss Stevie's poetry, but it's entirely possible it wouldn't be there in her songs any more, as I thought her SYW lyrics were hit/miss. So I'm at the point where, you know, may as well, even though I'd like one last effort from the five together.

[AncientQueen]

Nope! All five or nothing. Stevies voice adds something to Christine and Lindseys songs, it would not be FM without her distinctive voice and the element of her mystical songs. FM has always been greater than the sum of the parts when the three songwriters/singers worked together.

[SteveMacD]

Nope! All five or nothing. Stevies voice adds something to Christine and Lindseys songs, it would not be FM without her distinctive voice and the element of her mystical songs. FM has always been greater than the sum of the parts when the three songwriters/singers worked together.
The only problem with this is that a Buckingham/McVie only-album has never been tried, the closest being "Tango" where Stevie was, at best, inconsequential. If Lindsey and Christine could do an album full of songs like Big Love, Everywhere, Caroline, Little Lies, and Isn't It Midnight, without any input from Stevie, I'd be fine with that.

[AncientQueen]

The only problem with this is that a Buckingham/McVie only-album has never been tried, the closest being "Tango" where Stevie was, at best, inconsequential. If Lindsey and Christine could do an album full of songs like Big Love, Everywhere, Caroline, Little Lies, and Isn't It Midnight, without any input from Stevie, I'd be fine with that.
I hate TITN. :). I can imagine an album with Buckingham/McVie tunes only, but then with a producer who is not Lindsey Buckingham. Imho LB ruined every single track Christine McVie had on TITN with his overelaborated antics. To me, a LB/CMV based FM album can only work in a blues/pop context with spare production, focussing on actual instruments played by the great musicians of FM without gimicks and outdated effects.

[redbird]

I hate TITN. :). I can imagine an album with Buckingham/McVie tunes only, but then with a producer who is not Lindsey Buckingham. Imho LB ruined every single track Christine McVie had on TITN with his overelaborated antics. To me, a LB/CMV based FM album can only work in a blues/pop context with spare production, focussing on actual instruments played by the great musicians of FM without gimicks and outdated effects.
Regardless of whether or not Stevie is on the next album (if it ever happens), I do hope that they keep the production far more on the naturalistic, spare side. I'm over a lot of the studio effects, I like their music when it's more organic. IMO the more "studio magic" is on a song, the more quickly it dates.

[HomerMcvie]

Regardless of whether or not Stevie is on the next album (if it ever happens), I do hope that they keep the production far more on the naturalistic, spare side. I'm over a lot of the studio effects, I like their music when it's more organic. IMO the more "studio magic" is on a song, the more quickly it dates.

I agree with this completely. TITN doesn't stand the test of time. FAR more dated production than Rumours, White, or Tusk(which all still sound fresh).

I worry that Lindsey has lost much of his voice now, and feels he has to rely on the gimmicks to "get it done".

[PenguinHead]

I think an album and tour without Stevie would be utterly refreshing- and this is coming from a Stevie fan. Her malcontent and refusal to allow forward motion in this band the last decade is unfair to the band and it's fans. Like someone else pointed out- look how amazing and on point Lindsey and Christine were during Tango when Stevie was largely absent. I think the band would become a much lighter, more enjoyable affair if Stevie were allowed to sit out the next 3-5 years. Then if Stevie wanted to come back for a farewell album and tour, it would be a nice full circle thing.

That being said... this plan pushes the band's timeline out nearly a decade. Do we think these folks will want all of that craziness when they're 80? I'm not so sure.

We also have other factors, too. The band told Christine she couldn't come & go- I have to imagine that would hold true for Stevie, too. And Mick has made it a point to say the Rumours 5 is the very final incarnation of the band, and they won't be altering the lineup from here on out. So the odds of Stevie being allowed to leave and return seem pretty slim. The band is on their home stretch, and they want to finish out in tact so they wrap things up with a pretty bow.

Love your post! Unfortunately Stevie Diva goes her own way. I hope she has the dignity to honor the band and its endpoint, and collaborates on the final Fleetwood Mac album. If not, that shouldn't prevent them from releasing the album only with Lindsey and Christine.

I disagree with the notion that they will fail without Stevie. There are different measures of success. They have nothing more to prove. A Buckingham McVie album has every chance to be an artistic and/or commercial success. Filling stadiums and topping the charts is not the prime objective now. I hope they absolve themselves of the rigors of a tour, and market the album in other ways: A one-time Dance-like broadcast/DVD featuring the new songs, maybe handful of live shows, TV performances, social media events, etc.

It's unrealistic to assume an "extended era" of the band would have much longevity. But I do look forward more solo albums from Stevie, Lindsey, and maybe Christine and Mick. Maybe they will release a series of old performances of the band that have been professionally recorded - ones lingering in the vaults.

[nicepace]

I think it's silly to worry that Lindsey would overproduce a new album in the same style as Tango in the Night. That was then, this is now. From all accounts he's thrilled to work with Christine again. I don't see him ruining her songs with production tricks. His own songs? I would assume that at least one or two will feature some odd gimmicky noises and effects, but as long as it's only one or two songs on an album, I can live with that. Just Lindsey being Lindsey.

[AncientQueen]

I think it's silly to worry that Lindsey would overproduce a new album in the same style as Tango in the Night. That was then, this is now. From all accounts he's thrilled to work with Christine again. I don't see him ruining her songs with production tricks. His own songs? I would assume that at least one or two will feature some odd gimmicky noises and effects, but as long as it's only one or two songs on an album, I can live with that. Just Lindsey being Lindsey.
He did alot of tricks from TITN again on SYW. So fearing that he would repeat this stuff again on a new FM album is based on facts.
Example: The background groaning from Big Love is repeated on Everybody finds out. There are alot of other recycled effects on SYW.

[elle]

He did alot of tricks from TITN again on SYW. So fearing that he would repeat this stuff again on a new FM album is based on facts.
Example: The background groaning from Big Love is repeated on Everybody finds out. There are alot of other recycled effects on SYW.

well, SYW was 12 years ago... long long time. he used the tape to record still at the time. lot has changed.

Lindsey released 6 albums since SYW - 3 studio albums and 3 live albums, a number of songs on albums produced by other people, as well as FM's EP. probably all these albums are more something to check out if you are trying to extrapolate what kind of production he might bring to FM these days.

[AncientQueen]

Well, the EP did not give me much hope either. His solo work is not relevant to me when it comes to production for FM.

[elle]

Well, the EP did not give me much hope either. His solo work is not relevant to me when it comes to production for FM.

it may not be relevant to you, but that's probably more where he is right now, production wise.

EP had 3 different production styles on it, so agree that it doesn't tell you much - other than it's very different from TITN and SYW, which is what you seem to be worried about.

[AncientQueen]

It's not relavant to me because it is his solo work, his preogative. It is important to me how he produces Christines songs and how he puts his own work in a FM context with Christines compositions, Johns bass playing and Micks drums. Can he manage to leave some room for the other musicians, tone it down with effects, keep the guitar playing resonable, to enhance the compositions and not to overpower them, will he keep the show-off of his (really fantastic) picking style tolerable and try to be useful for the band and not let the band be useful for him? Questions over questions.

I think they should just ask Rick Rubin to produce and go for it. It worked for Johnny Cash, why not for FM.

[elle]

I think they should just ask Rick Rubin to produce and go for it. It worked for Johnny Cash, why not for FM.

agree would love to hear what Rick Rubin could do for FM, that would be really interesting. i think they are too far into it with other producers right now, maybe next album?!

wasn't LB actually on that Johnny Cash album produced by Rick Rubin, too?

[AncientQueen]

Yes, LB and Mick Fleetwood, too.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unchained_%28Johnny_Cash_album%29

[SteveMacD]

As far as Lindsey was concerned, TITN and SYW started out his solo projects that morphed into Fleetwood Mac albums, and he crafted songs by the others to fit his creative vision for what was originally his project.

If he's being sincere, I think he wants a new Fleetwood Mac album to be more of a collaborative effort.

As for TITN, I think Christine's songs still sound timeless and amazing, and have faired better than the others'.

[jbrownsjr]

As far as Lindsey was concerned, TITN and SYW started out his solo projects that morphed into Fleetwood Mac albums, and he crafted songs by the others to fit his creative vision for what was originally his project.

If he's being sincere, I think he wants a new Fleetwood Mac album to be more of a collaborative effort.

As for TITN, I think Christine's songs still sound timeless and amazing, and have faired better than the others'.

Christine's demos from TITN really kick ass. I like what LB added to them.

[iamnotafraid]

I'm getting a little sick of this fake drama.

Can't believe I'm saying this, but I think
they would make a better album without
Ms. Nicks.

If they can handle the financial loss of going
on without her - I say do it!

A more interesting drama would be of them
(the 4) announcing at a press conference that
they'd fired Stephanie.

[snroxman]

An era without Stevie? Absolutely! :). At the moment she doesn't want to be there anyway, yet there she was on tour. I'd rather hear the new music than more excuses and fake drama.

[haleyd]

Noooooopppppe. Nope-Nope-Nope-Nope. No way. No how. Absolutely not. Never ever.
It wouldn't even be Fleetwood Mac to me anymore; They would be the band formerly known as...
Now that being said, I would still buy the album and go see them. Because I love all of them, but to me Stevie is THEE queen of everything!!! But I wouldn't see more than one show on the tour whereas with a Stevie FM I would go to as many as I could. No matter how much her voice has changed over the years it still sends chills down my spine! Especially live! There is nothing better than seeing Buckingham Nicks on stage together!! IMO of course

[FuzzyPlum]

Noooooopppppe. Nope-Nope-Nope-Nope. No way. No how. Absolutely not. Never ever.
It wouldn't even be Fleetwood Mac to me anymore; They would be the band formerly known as...
Now that being said, I would still buy the album and go see them. Because I love all of them, but to me Stevie is THEE queen of everything!!! But I wouldn't see more than one show on the tour whereas with a Stevie FM I would go to as many as I could. No matter how much her voice has changed over the years it still sends chills down my spine! Especially live! There is nothing better than seeing Buckingham Nicks on stage together!! IMO of course

Her voice often sends chills down my spine too.... not necessarily in a good way though :D

[Murrow]

Absolutely yes!!! Get John to lay down his bass tracks (he says he wasn't involved in the 2014 recordings because of recovery from treatment), record another six songs or so and presto you have a natural follow-up to Tango to which Stevie really only brought two songs of her own anyway (Seven Wonders she only got a credit on because she misheard one of Sandy Stewart's lines).

She swings wildly between saying how F Mac cannot function without the classic lineup then moaning about Lindsey messing up her songs (not something you ever hear from Chris) and she has done from the Shake the Cage tour onwards and it's just boring. Aside from the fact that she's forgiven Mick for the whole Silver Springs thing (it seems).

Mick needs to lay it on the line as he did with Lindsey in 1987 and say "We're doing this and we're doing it now, Lindsey's producing, take it or leave it." Endless dates milking Rumours and the white album dry with mere highlights from the other three have been done to death.

Stevie's done some great stuff with and without Mac and you've only got to hear BTM and SYW to know that all you need is four out of the five to produce a great album.

So I say... move on, wish each other well, try not to slag each other too much and let's have one more lovely lovely album. Dunno how much longer I can go without hearing L/C songs called Carnival Begin and Red Sun...

[PenguinHead]

Lindsey is largely responsible for taking the raw material Stevie brings to the table and turning them into gems -- some of the biggest hits that helped established her. Though Stevie still carries a lot emotional baggage about Lindsey, I don't think she has any issue about him working on her songs. She just has issues of resentment that Lindsey is in control of the studio proceedings.

Someone has to take the lead, and that responsibility falls on Lindsey. It doesn't appear to me that he has Stalin-like tendencies when it comes to producing her songs. On contrary, he deals with her egotistical proclivities with a degree of sensitivity and respect. And he just wants to stay on task and move forward. His motive is to please Stevie, by doing the best he can with her material.

If Stevie isn't present and forthcoming with her disagreements with the direction and development of her songs, that's her fault. She deflects the blame on others in a passive/aggressive manner. Stevie sometimes acts like a spoiled brat. She needs the support, yet she doesn't like it when someone else is in the pilot seat.

[PenguinHead]

Absolutely yes!!! Get John to lay down his bass tracks (he says he wasn't involved in the 2014 recordings because of recovery from treatment), record another six songs or so and presto you have a natural follow-up to Tango to which Stevie really only brought two songs of her own anyway (Seven Wonders she only got a credit on because she misheard one of Sandy Stewart's lines).

She swings wildly between saying how F Mac cannot function without the classic lineup then moaning about Lindsey messing up her songs (not something you ever hear from Chris) and she has done from the Shake the Cage tour onwards and it's just boring. Aside from the fact that she's forgiven Mick for the whole Silver Springs thing (it seems).

Mick needs to lay it on the line as he did with Lindsey in 1987 and say "We're doing this and we're doing it now, Lindsey's producing, take it or leave it." Endless dates milking Rumours and the white album dry with mere highlights from the other three have been done to death.

Stevie's done some great stuff with and without Mac and you've only got to hear BTM and SYW to know that all you need is four out of the five to produce a great album.

So I say... move on, wish each other well, try not to slag each other too much and let's have one more lovely lovely album. Dunno how much longer I can go without hearing L/C songs called Carnival Begin and Red Sun...

Great post Murrow! Well stated valid points.

[jbrownsjr]

. Dunno how much longer I can go without hearing L/C songs called Carnival Begin and Red Sun...

And the two of them saying they get chills when they hear it.

[michelej1]

And the two of them saying they get chills when they hear it.

Those two are easily chilled.

Michele

[bombaysaffires]

Lindsey is largely responsible for taking the raw material Stevie brings to the table and turning them into gems -- some of the biggest hits that helped established her. Though Stevie still carries a lot emotional baggage about Lindsey, I don't think she has any issue about him working on her songs. She just has issues of resentment that Lindsey is in control of the studio proceedings.

Someone has to take the lead, and that responsibility falls on Lindsey. It doesn't appear to me that he has Stalin-like tendencies when it comes to producing her songs. On contrary, he deals with her egotistical proclivities with a degree of sensitivity and respect. And he just wants to stay on task and move forward. His motive is to please Stevie, by doing the best he can with her material.

If Stevie isn't present and forthcoming with her disagreements with the direction and development of her songs, that's her fault. She deflects the blame on others in a passive/aggressive manner. Stevie sometimes acts like a spoiled brat. She needs the support, yet she doesn't like it when someone else is in the pilot seat.

Now. But not always. He admits that he was at times not particularly nice (translation: an a-hole) to her in the studio. He can be and was cutting, nasty, and mean. She also claims that contrary to popular opinion he *didn't* always polish her songs into gems, usually when he was pissed at her (for leaving him...years before. For selling more solo albums. For whatever.). He pretty much admits this too. ("not always our higher/better selves"). His way of slagging her in the press was to always make out like her songs weren't really all that until he got his hands on them. (this is why it became so hugely important to her to get her music out without him). Yes he worked on perfecting the arrangements... uh, that's what a producer does!

Then the band having to ask him not to be such a d*ck to her when she got out of rehab. So I do think she has had lots of years of reasons to not entirely trust him. LB speaks of her "learning to trust him again" and basically acknowledges there were reasons not to. Then by all accounts he said some pretty strong if not outright nasty things towards the end of SYW while the others were in Hawaii.

That said, has she made him pay for all his past transgressions? Yep. And then some. Did she prefer to party than slog it out in the studio on her songs? Sometimes. Still, they should have moved past it all a long time ago. These days Stevie clearly knows the power she has in the band and isn't above wielding it however she sees fit, which lately I think is totally to the detriment of the band. She's had enough solo success to have proven her point that she can indeed be quite successful without him, and more successful (in terms of sales) than him solo. Duly noted. Now can we please move on and be grown ups and do one last album before it's too late??

[michelej1]

Now. But not always. He admits that he was at times not particularly nice (translation: an a-hole) to her in the studio. He can be and was cutting, nasty, and mean.

But when she stops speaking in broad generalizations ("when he was not happy with me") and gives us specific examples of what he said that was so awful or how he displayed his contempt, it's stuff like calling her Sammy Davis Jr. (or whatever he called her for taking the mic off of the stand) or he told her to change a pronoun in a song, a comment that she found so scathing she found it necessary to put it in a documentary 10 years later.

Sure, everyone says, "well it's not what you say, it's how you say it." But in the Thrown Down example, we heard how he said it and it really was no big deal. Did he say it to annoy her? Probably. But was it browbeating and cruel coming from someone you've known for 40 years? No way.

The whole thing with Silver Springs with Mick telling her in the parking lot, sounded like Lindsey was actively avoiding being the one to tell her, which, if he just loved to taunt her, I'd think he'd be all over giving her the great news that her beloved song was off the album and the dreaded IDWTK was on.

I can look at the Angel clip when he says "in a word" and tell that his sarcasm could get to anyone and when the camera is not on, I know they clash much harder. But I just wish she'd share exactly what he says to her that's so awful, rather than just broadly claiming he was mean to her and everyone concluding, oh he is the Ayatollah just like she said, without any specifics to back that up.

And when Stevie came in to do Tango, she thought they'd all be mad at her for the Tom Petty/Bob Dylan tour and she says she was surprised that they weren't, so I got the feeling that everyone made it a point to control themselves with her, because of her vulnerable state, not just Lindsey.

Michele

[AncientQueen]

I do believe that Lindsey has been mean and has used his producing as a way to control and punish Stevie. Imho he is as much a diva as she is, if not even more.

But Stevie has a tendency to portray herself as the victim in FM circumstances and this is getting stronger over the last years. (I can't with her recent whining about the many tour dates - she should talk about it with her manager, but not whine around in public/make her paying audience feel bad about stressing her so much.)

Only she knows how her songwriting abilities are this days (she has already ransacked her old demo tapes mercilessly) so blaming others for not wanting to record is pretty transparent by now. With Christine on board and the Chris/Lindsey dynamic, there is quite a risk to be the weak link in the (songwriting) chain (again), and that may be the reason for her to hesitate so much.

And - with FM, she has to deliver, Christine and Lindsey aren't payed session musicians and/or professional yes-ma'am folks, maybe she would prefer it that way, she get's away with sub par on her solo work, but not with FM.

[nicole21290]

As far as specific examples goes, using this one might have no bearing at all, depending on how you view CAH and what she says but for what it's worth...

---------

Tonight Stevie had brought in one of her songs with melody and lyrics already laid down over a simple basic track. Even though it was obvious that the song needed to be recorded professionally, to me it already sounded great. But not good enough, apparently, for Lindsey.

Stevie, standing in the middle of the room, kept a serene smile on her face as the band listened to her new song, “Storms.” As the last note faded away she looked around the room, waiting for the positive comments and feedback that she obviously felt the song would garner from everyone present. And then it all started to turn ugly.

With a slight twisted smile on his face, Lindsey drew first blood. Going over her new song bit by bit - pointing out how this part was crap, the next part needed to be raised or lowered by two octaves and this section desperately needed a new melody lines - he tore it apart. By the time he was finished dissecting everything in detail about what was wrong with the song, he smiled serenely and said, “I like it, Stevie. It just needs some work, that’s all.”

As Stevie listened to Lindsey’s comments you could almost see the steam coming off her. With sarcasm and hurt dripping from every word, she began to lash out at Lindsey and his suggestions. She knew what she wanted for her songs. And while she was more than willing to accept his input and his creative genius, she wouldn’t let him take over her musical creations completely. She just wouldn’t have it. And the end result was always the same: a snarling, vicious battle over her music.

For, without fail, the parts of a song that Lindsey didn’t like or outright hated were the parts of that song that Stevie loved. Their angry debates would quickly escalate to a screaming match, with stomping around (by Lindsey) and tears (from Stevie).

[He's So Unusual]

All I want is for the band to get over their nonsense and release a new album. If they can't do that, or if certain members can't, then walk away and call it a day instead of dragging everything out. I'm bored to tears of hearing about the drama. I swear some of it is calculated just to please the fans of the "on-going soap opera" that the band have been playing up to since the 1970s. Release a stellar album to end things or take the money from the tour and retire. If Stevie isn't interested in recording a new album, then they need to either release it without her or scrap it altogether. Stevie isn't the be-all and end-all when it comes to the band.

[michelej1]

Tonight Stevie had brought in one of her songs with melody and lyrics already laid down over a simple basic track. Even though it was obvious that the song needed to be recorded professionally, to me it already sounded great. But not good enough, apparently, for Lindsey.


Maybe that was one of those songs Stevie did with Tom Moncrieff and brought in to FM. For a person who talks as much as Stevie, I'm surprised she doesn't give specific examples herself. it's not because she doesn't want to make Lindsey look bad, because she's already saying he put her at the back of the bus and was an Ayatollah, so it would be nice to hear how.

I do remember her talking about FM [mainly Lindsey I suppose, but Christine does add stuff too] changing her songs.

My songs in Fleetwood Mac are always very different than they are just done by me because they change them. It is the way it is, the way it has been and the way it will always be. I am sometimes very sad at the way they change my songs, I eventually get to like it because I eventually forgive the fact that they changed it so much and decide that I kind of like what they did anyway, so they weren’t such bad fellows after all.

And she did give this example of stuff he would say to her and she said she didn't have time for that kind of "abuse":

I wasn't there for a lot of that, because I was on the road. It was me that was causing all the friction, because Lindsey was the head guy and I was making him erratic. When I was not there it was good. They all got along fine. But, you have to understand that I'm an old girlfriend of Lindsey's, so that kind of makes me a warmonger in his eye. So, when I walked in it was like, "Thanks so much for stopping by. We heard you were busy with your solo tour. Thanks for bailing on us." That's the first thing I got. I didn't have time for that abuse. And I felt like, "If you don't get off my back, I'm gonna injure you badly." It got so bad that I said, "I'm going to do a solo record," much to Mick and Lindsey's absolute horror.

What we tend to get is examples of sarcasm from Lindsey. We don't get Stevie saying that he said, "You have no talent and your songs stink. This is awful." Instead, he says something pleasant -- but condescending. Instead he makes wry comments. For instance, Carol did mention he renamed SDMHA in her book too. Didn't she say he called it something like "Stop Dragging My Career Around", although she said he didn't say that in front of Stevie. In front of Stevie he was complimentary. But we know he eye rolls.

Even this year Christine said that Lindsey was sarcastic. But actually, both Stevie and Christine are very sarcastic themselves. There was no lack of sarcasm when Stevie talked about Lindsey's Tusk songs in the eighties.

I just think about the way we've talked about Cheaper Than Free. Remember how different Stevie's description of the song originating with Reese sounded from the video of the moment we actually saw? If we hadn't seen the Thrown Down personal pronoun conversation ourselves, I bet Stevie's description of the exchange would have made Lindsey seem much more unbearable than he actually was. If she was telling the story without video, she'd probably have him snarling, "You're no Bob Dylan!!!" But that's not the reality of what happened.

Michele

[michelej1]

You know I do understand wanting someone to produce your work, without wanting them to monopolize it. And it seems that Lindsey couldn't do that with Stevie. They don't collaborate well. As she says if one sees blue, the other sees gray, but even with Christine today Lindsey's very happy that he got to take a lot of "liberties" with those demos she gave him and doesn't seem to mind if he changes them. He wants that from Stevie. It's like he said with John that there ends up being something good in the tension that comes from thinking someone is going to walk all over your guitar lines and ... then they don't.

I guess Lindsey wants to run rampant all over Stevie's song. She understandably doesn't want that. But in the past, when she criticized him for not doing enough with her songs as well, it really seems like he's condemned if he does and condemned when he doesn't. If he leaves her songs alone, he's angry and not helping and when he changes her songs, he's a tyrant.

I understand that there should be a middle ground, like he has with Christine. A middle ground between 'helping' and conquering. BUT I feel the fact that there isn't a middle ground is not just because he wants to punish her for leaving him (although she thinks it is) but because they have such vastly different musical approaches. So, it's hard to find a compromise.

He could take my songs and do what I would do if I had musical talent. When he wasn't angry with me, that is. That's why there's seven or eight great songs, and there's 50 more where he wasn't happy with me and didn't help me.


Thats where the double edged sword came, whether he wanted to help me or not: 'So, you don't want to be my wife, my girlfriend, but you want me to do all that magic stuff on your songs. Is there anything else that you want, just, like, in my spare time?"

Michele

[AncientQueen]

It is in Lindseys best interests to make Stevies songs shine. I'm a fan, so I'm not sure how the general public sees FM, but I would guess that Stevie is the most known individual member of the band, with her songs being good drawing attention to any new band project. Christine writes the radio hits, Stevie has the big fanbase and Lindsey does the manly man guitar and production stuff, so that FM is not seen as band fronted by two women.

[FuzzyPlum]

So, the tour's all done. They've all gone their seperate ways. Now back to conjecture;

Mick will be shmoozing the diners at his restaurant and preparing for his charity concert with Rick Vito etc. Its easy to forget his dear mother Biddy passed away mid-tour. He'll probably still have things to sort out concerning her passing.
John will have a well earned rest and will find the time for some sailing.
Christine will probably return for a while to England. I wonder whether her house sold btw? Either way, she'll probably have plenty of sorting out to do. Perhaps she'll spend some time in the uk and then fly back and spend time with Mick (maybe even play in his Blues band again over the holidays).
Lindsey will will spend quality time with his family but will be eager I'm sure to get working on songs. I bet he's been thinking and tinkering with new songs a lot while on the road.
Stevie- she'll rest. Then...rest some more. Then... SFTV 2. Then she'll do a tour and promotion.


I don't want to see Stevie out of the band, but they have all that material begging to be used. I think Mick said they'll be back in the studio in the Spring. I want them to finish this record and put it out later in 2016. However, I just cant see Stevie being part of it- it's too soon for her. As soon as she's had a few weeks/months away from the band she'll not want to be back there in a hurry. Lindsey and Christine are in a creative zone and it will I'm sure be painful for them to be idle. Mick will also go out of his mind with nothing to do. With no Fleetwood Mac involvement there's too much of an incentive for him to spend money/lose money in a new business venture.

I think they should just get the album out as a foursome in 2016. Then, they should get back together with Stevie and have a big reunion for the big year in 2017. Maybe they can reunite with her and start a final album almost from scratch.

[Macfan4life]

There is no way Stevie is leaving this band. She stuck through it all and went on after both Lindsey and Christine left. One album left and hopefully one more tour. I don't see her leaving just before the band says goodbye. I see her wanting to be a part of the final bows with Fleetwood Mac.

[olive]

There is no way Stevie is leaving this band. She stuck through it all and went on after both Lindsey and Christine left. One album left and hopefully one more tour. I don't see her leaving just before the band says goodbye. I see her wanting to be a part of the final bows with Fleetwood Mac.

she's quit before

[Macfan4life]

she's quit before
Totally different circumstances. The band carried on 3 years without Lindsey and did an album and 2 tours. The album did not sell well and Christine stopped touring and it was mutual that Stevie was going to leave with Chris. I remember when the Farwell tour was announced Stevie and Chris were leaving although Chris said no more touring. It was an end of that era.
Fast forward to today. Stevie will want to be there for the final curtain call.

[iamnotafraid]

Fast forward to today. Stevie will want to be there for the final curtain call.

I think they'll all continue until one of them
has the final curtain call.

[Missy]

The way I see it is that there will be another album (it's apparently already been recorded) and they will continue to perform occasionally with the whole line up, maybe at festivals and such.

If John became ill again and had to quit altogether I don't think they would ever replace him even though Stevie may continue to carry the songs solo.

Another full length tour I don't know but they've surprised me before.

Stevie has always been my favourite and it may once have seemed unimaginable to not have her there. But I think they could continue as a quartet if they had to and could be an interesting concept, though it doesn't seem likely because it would be going out on a wing.

Lindsey and Christine both understand musical arrangement and could collaborate. There was some cool interplay between them on the latest tour musically. It actually seemed to be Lindsey and Chris who were getting the best reviews for recent performances. There were many times that Lindsey seemed the crowd favourite and I heard many saying after the show that Lindsey was the show highlight for them because of his insane guitar skills, though 'they were all good'.

I had my concerns before they came to Australia, because I'd heard rumblings about Stevie being tired and weary of touring, finding it difficult to tolerate Lindsey etc. It didn't seem to bode well. But that's fairly par for the course with FM, they always seem to need some drama. At the show I saw there was no sign of trouble and Stevie apparently said a few times in Australia that this was not a 'goodbye tour'. How much of that was showbiz bravado and how much real, who knows?

In Brisbane she reportedly said they would be “doing this until we’re 9000 vampire years old”. Last month Mick was saying "This is not goodbye. Stevie [Nicks] mentioned it to me the other night, saying: 'this can't be the goodbye tour because no one said that it was'."

When an interviewer asked Stevie if she could ever see herself not performing, she replied "No. No, I would see myself being able to sing into my 70s because I will still have a really good voice when I'm in my 70s." (Once I might have laughed at that but last month hearing her live she seemed fine.)

When they went to New Zealand for the final shows they didn't seem to be saying much. The weather was unseasonably bad at the concerts and they were keeping chat between songs to a minimum because the crowds were in the rain.

If they continue good on them, if they decide to slow down well they've earned it. Time will tell.

[StreetAngel86]

What if SN took "her" break from the band, like LB and CM did? Would you welcome the 4 moving on without Stevie for 4-5 years? Releasing an album, then touring as a quartet again?

er ... you do know she ALREADY took her "break" yeah?

and no I wouldn't welcome it.
No Stevie No Fleetwood Mac.
easy as :D:D:D:D

[PenguinHead]

Lindsey and Christine working together. It's hard for me to foresee that not resulting in something good.

I feel the same. As much as I want Stevie to play her part on the new album -- the last from the five "Fireflies", a Buckingham/McVie combo album could likely be a more musically satisfying than the Buckingham/Nicks combo album Say You Will (which I like for what it is).

A Stevie Nicks-free Fleetwood Mac album is a feasible possibility. While the Rumours configuration consists of three pillars, they still have the power of two engines. Their audience will still be there.

But it's wishful thinking to expect them to continue to be road warriors. I think the health issues John is dealing with will limit or stymie that prospect. A new album can still be successful without a major, arduous tour. There many are other ways to market/promote an album.

The last tour was just a promotional reminder of their past. Another tour, featuring a handful (at best) of new songs will have minimal effect on the commercial success of the new album. At this point in time, that really shouldn't be the priority anyway.

This album would be their coda; a goodbye to their fans, and the end of their long and winding legacy. This is what I hope for the most. Come think of it, FIREFLIES would be a good album title, assuming all five flies will be on it.

[bombaysaffires]

I feel the same. As much as I want Stevie to play her part on the new album -- the last from the five "Fireflies", a Buckingham/McVie combo album could likely be a more musically satisfying than the Buckingham/Nicks combo album Say You Will (which I like for what it is).

A Stevie Nicks-free Fleetwood Mac album is a feasible possibility. While the Rumours configuration consists of three pillars, they still have the power of two engines. Their audience will still be there.

But it's wishful thinking to expect them to continue to be road warriors. I think the health issues John is dealing with will limit or stymie that prospect. A new album can still be successful without a major, arduous tour. There many are other ways to market/promote an album.

The last tour was just a promotional reminder of their past. Another tour, featuring a handful (at best) of new songs will have minimal effect on the commercial success of the new album. At this point in time, that really shouldn't be the priority anyway.

This album would be their coda; a goodbye to their fans, and the end of their long and winding legacy. This is what I hope for the most. Come think of it, FIREFLIES would be a good album title, assuming all five flies will be on it.


flies??? like on a pile of poo?? :sorry: :laugh:

Fireflies, good..... flies, bad :distress:

[iamnotafraid]

Come think of it, FIREFLIES would be a good album title...

Nope, not if you want it to sell.

I'd name the "new" Fleetwood Mac
album ADELE 70.

[FuzzyPlum]

Nope, not if you want it to sell.

I'd name the "new" Fleetwood Mac
album ADELE 70.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Ha ha. Thats funny
(but true)

[dawn_amanda]

I am a huge Stevie fan. But if after a break the others want to release the album and she isn't interested they should go ahead IMO. Rather than let everyone down at least there would be something. It just amazes me that she is apparently not keen when she seemed so happy to be playing with the other 4 all together again. I hope she contributes something, even if it's just adding vocals to the others' songs.

[JohnL]

I have no issue with FM making an album without Stevie if she truly bows out of the group. However, I think it is just WRONG of them to not allow her to have at least a 6 month break and let her make the decision. They have been on the road for almost 2 years now and she toured consistently before that. Let her rest. If she decides not to participate, then go ahead with an album. I wont be interested in hearing it though. From what I heard on this last tour, Lindsey's voice is shot and Christine is hit and miss. She was out of tune a lot. Just my opinion....

[michelej1]

From what I heard on this last tour, Lindsey's voice is shot and Christine is hit and miss. She was out of tune a lot. Just my opinion....

An album would not sound like their live concert voices.

Michele

[FuzzyPlum]

I have no issue with FM making an album without Stevie if she truly bows out of the group. However, I think it is just WRONG of them to not allow her to have at least a 6 month break and let her make the decision. They have been on the road for almost 2 years now and she toured consistently before that. Let her rest. If she decides not to participate, then go ahead with an album. I wont be interested in hearing it though. From what I heard on this last tour, Lindsey's voice is shot and Christine is hit and miss. She was out of tune a lot. Just my opinion....


She doesnt need 6 months to rest.
My issue would be she'd use the time to do her own thing- solo album, solo tour. For the rest of them the solo-band-solo cycle is long past. They are back to being a fully fledged band.

[louielouie2000]

She doesnt need 6 months to rest.
My issue would be she'd use the time to do her own thing- solo album, solo tour. For the rest of them the solo-band-solo cycle is long past. They are back to being a fully fledged band.

Fleetwood Mac has been on the road for 3 years in a row. Stevie's going to stalk off to her solo career come Hell or high water now- especially since her latest solo album was consumed by the Fleetwood Mac tour machine, and she never had a chance to perform any of those songs live. She probably blames that album's bombing on it's lack of supporting tour, and odds are she's highly bitter about that. The band-solo-band charade has been going on for 35 years, even Christine's against-all-odds return will not break the cycle, unfortunately. Mark my word- Stevie is going to figure out a way to drag the solo thing out. I wouldn't be surprised if she started another solo album, just to thumb her nose at Lindsey and his decade-long plea for a new FM album. Add in Stevie's newfound opinion that FM should wait 3 years between tours now, and odds aren't looking so hot in regards to a fresh FM chapter any time soon.

With that kind of forecast, I think the band should go back into the studio with or without her by mid next year. They could always release an EP as a four-piece, sans Stevie. Because I seriously doubt they'd do a full-on album minus her at this point. I'd actually welcome a Lindsey-Chris Mac album; it'd be sort of a spiritual successor to Tango.

[dawn_amanda]

Is Stevie really that bitter towards him?! They seem so close on stage! Is that just for show? :(

[Missy]

Hmm I'm trying to think of a possible replacement for Stevie...

Courtney Love?

Rod Stewart?

(If you want to kick my ass please do!)

On a more serious note about Rod Stewart, I think that he and Ronnie Wood would like to join up together again and do a tour, just playing smaller clubs and doing old blues songs and r&b. I think that would actually be worth doing, because I like the songs by The Faces. But Stewart's management seem to be against it because they'd rather he do his big shows with the more familiar hits. It seems even the biggest artists can sometimes have constraints.

[Missy]

Is Stevie really that bitter towards him?! They seem so close on stage! Is that just for show? :(

I think that Stevie has said that it's all real, because if it were fake people would know.

That's not what Christine has been saying however. She has said that Stevie and Lindsey don't get on and when they're on stage they put on an act. It always gets a good response from the audience.

This is what the National Enquirer said a few months ago (I know, very bad source):

Fleetwood Mac singer STEVIE NICKS is desperate to go her own way after the band ends its world tour in November!

“Stevie believes every show endangers her soul,” an insider said.

The songbird went through a painful breakup with guitarist Lindsey Buckingham as the group soared to stardom in the ’70s.

Drummer Mick Fleetwood has said Stevie still endures “a form of button-pushing” from Lindsey, who conceded that working together “scares her a little.”

Added the source: “Stevie’s really afraid he burdens her soul with darkness!”

[iamnotafraid]

This is what the National Enquirer said a few months ago (I know, very bad source):

Stevie's epitaph...
The Devil Made Me Do It

[JohnL]

An album would not sound like their live concert voices.

Michele

Duh...I was just pointing out that some rest may do them all good. It seems like their voices have been pushed to the limit on this tour.

[JohnL]

She doesnt need 6 months to rest.
My issue would be she'd use the time to do her own thing- solo album, solo tour. For the rest of them the solo-band-solo cycle is long past. They are back to being a fully fledged band.

How do you know how much rest she needs? I am just saying they should just pick an acceptable amount of time and let her make the decision. After all these years, I think that is the right thing to do. They are all almost 70 or over...and this tour was HUMONGOUS and very long!

[elle]

How do you know how much rest she needs? I am just saying they should just pick an acceptable amount of time and let her make the decision. After all these years, I think that is the right thing to do. They are all almost 70 or over...and this tour was HUMONGOUS and very long!

how much time is acceptable though? 10 years? they are almost 70 and they will be way over that if they keep waiting for this "acceptable" amount of time that is slowly turning into decades. :laugh:

they first started talking about the new FM album in 2009. they were supposed to go in the studio in 2010. then they actually did go into the studio in 2012. and in 2014. now it's almost 2016. that's at least 6 years of waiting so far.

[olive]

Hmm I'm trying to think of a possible replacement for Stevie...

Courtney Love?

Rod Stewart?

(If you want to kick my ass please do!)



Thank you for Not Suggesting sheryl crow

[FuzzyPlum]

How do you know how much rest she needs? I am just saying they should just pick an acceptable amount of time and let her make the decision. After all these years, I think that is the right thing to do. They are all almost 70 or over...and this tour was HUMONGOUS and very long!

I dont know how much rest she needs. I do know she doesnt need 6 months though. She's just been on a long tour. Her voice has been well worked- I appreciate that. Christine is (not inconsiderably) older than her though and I bet she isn't going to look for an extended period of rest. Lindsey Buckingham does twice as much work on stage and I bet he isnt going to look for an extended period of rest.

Take month or two off- sure. But then get working while the band is still alive FFS.

[Missy]

I say give it about six months and see how they feel. They are being courted I think for Glastonbury in June 2016 and they may want to do warm up gigs prior.

I noticed this snippet about Mick's plans for next year. It seemed to be mainly Mick doing the press in Australia.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/mick-fleetwood-wants-jimmy-barnes-on-board-for-next-tour/story-fn9n8gph-1227578824647

The more than chatty sticksman also reveals that he hopes to bring his blues band back to Australia at some point next year and to possibly enlist the services of an old mate, a certain J. Barnes. “It would be fun. He’s a great rock ‘n’ roll singer and in truth a great blues singer. He’s really adept at it.” As we went to press Barnesy wasn’t aware of this development, but hopefully he soon will be.

Jimmy Barnes is from my home city Adelaide though he was Scots born. He's been around a long time. He once did an ear splitting duet with Tina Turner and he's a total madman. Here he is in quieter mode.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=akiEPA3tupM

I am letting my imagination run away with me here. Next year they could do a double bill of Fleetwood Mac and The Faces. It'd be smashing if Peter Green could join them for some of it.

I can't see Lindsey being part of that arrangement though. Great guitarist even though he is, blues audiences are often purists. And I know he probably still hates Rod Stewart!

[elle]

I say give it about six months and see how they feel. They are being courted I think for Glastonbury in June 2016 and they may want to do warm up gigs prior.

I noticed this snippet about Mick's plans for next year. It seemed to be mainly Mick doing the press in Australia.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/mick-fleetwood-wants-jimmy-barnes-on-board-for-next-tour/story-fn9n8gph-1227578824647



Jimmy Barnes is from my home city Adelaide though he was Scots born. He's been around a long time. He once did an ear splitting duet with Tina Turner and he's a total madman. Here he is in quieter mode.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=akiEPA3tupM

I am letting my imagination run away with me here. Next year they could do a double bill of Fleetwood Mac and The Faces. It'd be smashing if Peter Green could join them for some of it.

I can't see Lindsey being part of that arrangement though. Great guitarist even though he is, blues audiences are often purists. And I know he probably still hates Rod Stewart!

Mick was very clear FM is not doing Glasto 2016.

sounds like Mick is working on a back up plan to tour with his blues band if the FM record is not materializing in 2016, or even if it is during just a part of it.

not sure why you think Mick's blues band would have anything to do with any of the FM incarnations, past or present. or Faces. it's MFBB, and they sometimes have guest musicians. no venues on the level of FM or Rod Stewart.

also why would Lindsey hate Rod Stewart??

[Missy]

There is a story that long ago, Rod Stewart hit on Lindsey's gf without realising and Lindsey was furious. I can see Rod doing that too. Everyone knows his rep...

Glastonbury 2016 was still being tipped in October. Mick had ruled them out for 2015 but I didn't think he'd ruled out future years?

The old Fleetwood Mac and Faces were very blues British bands. I think that deep down Rod would like a reformation of The Faces. But as so often happens sometimes other things can get in the way.

I'm not being that serious but I do think, despite my being a huge Nicks fan, they would have other possibilities without her that could be explored.

[elle]

There is a story that long ago, Rod Stewart hit on Lindsey's gf without realising and Lindsey was furious. I can see Rod doing that too. Everyone knows his rep...

Glastonbury 2016 was still being tipped in October. Mick had ruled them out for 2015 but I didn't think he'd ruled out future years?

The old Fleetwood Mac and Faces were very blues British bands. I think that deep down Rod would like a reformation of The Faces. But as so often happens sometimes other things can get in the way.

I'm not being that serious but I do think, despite my being a huge Nicks fan, they would have other possibilities without her that could be explored.

thanks for the responses!

did i read somewhere here that Rod and Ron Wood would like to tour together in small venues but managers are nixing it?

ah yeah, Carol's story, forgot about that. somehow i suspect LB has too by now! Carol seemed mostly pissed about Rod thinking she's a groupie.

yeah Mick ruled out Glasto 2016 too, he was asked at AUS m&gs immediately after that rumor started flying last month.

[Missy]

There was this story about a possible Faces reunion not long ago, as in a real tour doing some smaller venues.

http://rollingstoneaus.com/music/post/rod-stewart-feature/2727

Ronnie Wood was complaining that Rod's management was standing in the way over money. Rod's manager says it's really more about schedules. *shrugs*

I think I would actually love to go see a show with both The Faces and maybe a trimmed down Fleetwood Mac. There would probably be enough big names on that bill to draw people out.

I feel very ignorant now but just discovered that Mick, Rod, and Peter Green had all been in a group called 'Shotgun Express' in the 1960s.

(Does anyone know if there's ever been some discussion about Peter Green doing something with the band? I doubt he could handle very big crowds anymore but might be nice to have something.)

I guess it's just fantasy for a show like that, so we have to wait and see what happens next year. The band have just finished a long tour and deserve a break. Actually, it was a miracle to have this most recent tour with all five because I didn't think Christine would ever return. The band members themselves couldn't seem to get over it.

A long video but I love this recording of a Faces show in 1972. Before Rod's 'Do Ya Think I'm Sexy' era! The Faces were pretty crazy though. They were notorious for boozing it up and wrecking hotel rooms. Rod has said they were banned from so many hotels that they started signing in as 'Fleetwood Mac' to get past it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xHBjeiqzkQ

[elle]

(Does anyone know if there's ever been some discussion about Peter Green doing something with the band? I doubt he could handle very big crowds anymore but might be nice to have something.)

I guess it's just fantasy for a show like that, so we have to wait and see what happens next year.

Mick was repeatedly asked that question at meet and greets throughout the last 2 tours. he said that he was hoping and trying to arrange something with Peter Green for a long long time, but that he finally realizes that will never happen - Peter is in no shape to commit to doing anything more serious, predictable and set upfront, like concert dates or prearranged appearances.

imo the most probable thing that will happen in 2016 is Stevie solo tour and Lindsey some kind of a solo release and solo tour. i'm sure Mick will also do something with one of his solo bands or ventures, he almost always does.

the real loss here is Christine-related - i think she really wants to work with the band, not go back to solo. she has all these songs she and Lindsey recorded and they are just added to the pile of previously recorded FM songs since 2012... and waiting. it's a shame.

i would be shocked and pleasantly surprised if the band either decides to finish the album without Stevie and puts it out, or Stevie finally decides to join in the group effort and adds her contributions.

[Villavic]

No!
I suffered enough missing Christine
I can't stand any 4 member lineup

[Macfanforever]

I update my statement from earlier.


NO.......................................................................

[elle]

No!
I suffered enough missing Christine
I can't stand any 4 member lineup

lol. better to suffer with no lineup then? ;)

[jbrownsjr]

lol. better to suffer with no lineup then? ;)

Without Christine, there is no line up.

[HomerMcvie]

Without Christine, there is no line up.

A FREAKING MEN!