Return of the Songbird (Stereoboard) How Chris Enhances the Albums

[jbrownsjr]

Originally Posted by Andy Man

Thanks for the post. A great article.


I enjoy how the writer makes it very clear that Christine is (arguably) the reason for Fleetwood Mac's ultimate success. It was really through her that the band was able to continue post-Green and pre-B/N. Her consistent songs and voice, and her stable presence, allowed for all of those transitions to happen until FM finally reached that magic year of 1975.

It's amazing to see just how much appreciation she has been getting since her return. I can't think of another individual artist in recent memory who has been able to gain as much sudden respect as Christine McVie. I think that during her initial run with the band, she was always "outshined" on stage by the eccentric front-folks (Welch, Nicks, Buckingham); this had no bearing on the quality of songs, but rather the presence that each member had on stage. As a result of the "in your face" persona of Nicks/Buckingham, I've often felt that Christine's material has always been sidelined. How great it is that she is now receiving the respect that she (and her compositions) deserve. Viewing the footage from Isle of Wight (particularly the crowd reaction to "Everywhere") is proof of how her songs have carried through the years. When I listen to "The Dance" now, I find that her songs are my go-tos. "Tango In The Night" is what it is because of Chris' compositions. Her blues-drive playing and incredible sense of melody have had far more impact on the sound of FM than I think any of us really knew. Who know that all it would take to get this respect was a 16 year break?

That chemistry she has with Lindsey is why he never wanted her to leave. He was pretty much the most vocal about her departure. And when she came back he said, "you can never leave again!" She really is part of that foundation that was sorely missed when it was just B/N.