Stevie Nicks, the ethereal queen of rock, has captivated audiences for decades with her mystical lyrics, haunting voice, and bohemian style. As a solo artist and a key member of Fleetwood Mac, Nicks has crafted an extraordinary legacy, weaving stories of love, loss, and enchantment into the fabric of rock history. Her music transcends time, resonating with fans across generations who find solace, inspiration, and empowerment in her songs. From the raw emotion of heartache to the liberating embrace of independence, Nicks’ work is a masterclass in storytelling that speaks to the soul. In this article, we dive deep into the top 10 most popular Stevie Nicks songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have not only defined her storied career but have also become anthems for those who walk the line between dreams and reality. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her magical world, these songs will remind you why Stevie Nicks remains an enduring icon in the realm of rock and roll.
1. “Edge of Seventeen” (1982)
Released in 1982 as part of Stevie Nicks’ debut solo album Bella Donna, “Edge of Seventeen” is one of her most iconic tracks. The song is driven by a relentless, chugging guitar riff and Nicks’ distinctive, raspy vocals. Inspired by the death of John Lennon and the phrase “just like the white winged dove,” which Nicks misheard during a conversation with Tom Petty’s wife, the song captures a powerful sense of loss and resilience. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery, convey both personal grief and a broader reflection on life’s fleeting nature. “Edge of Seventeen” has since become synonymous with Nicks’ ethereal persona, embodying her unique blend of rock and mysticism.
2. “Landslide” (1975)
“Landslide” first graced the world in 1975 on Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album. Written solely by Nicks, this introspective ballad is a poignant meditation on change, aging, and the passage of time. Accompanied by Lindsey Buckingham’s delicate acoustic guitar, Nicks’ heartfelt vocals explore the vulnerability of life’s transitions. The song’s lyrics, “Well, I’ve been afraid of changin’ / ‘Cause I built my life around you,” resonate deeply with listeners, making it one of Fleetwood Mac’s most enduring tracks. Its timelessness has led to numerous covers, but Nicks’ original performance remains unparalleled in its emotional depth.
3. “Rhiannon” (1976)
“Rhiannon,” released in 1976 on Fleetwood Mac’s Fleetwood Mac album, is one of the band’s most enchanting songs. Written by Nicks before she joined Fleetwood Mac, the song is inspired by the Welsh mythological figure Rhiannon, a goddess associated with the moon and horses. Nicks’ haunting vocals and the song’s mesmerizing chord progression create a mystical atmosphere that perfectly complements the story of the elusive Rhiannon. The live performances of “Rhiannon” are legendary, with Nicks often extending the song into a fiery, spellbinding experience, further cementing her status as rock’s high priestess.
4. “Dreams” (1977)
“Dreams” is arguably one of Fleetwood Mac’s most famous songs, released in 1977 on the band’s landmark Rumours album. Written by Nicks during a tumultuous period in the band, the song is both a reflection on the disintegration of her relationship with Lindsey Buckingham and a broader exploration of broken dreams. Its smooth, laid-back beat paired with Nicks’ ethereal vocals creates a dreamy soundscape that is at once soothing and melancholic. “Dreams” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Fleetwood Mac’s only song to top the chart, and it remains a defining track of the 1970s.
5. “Stand Back” (1983)
Stevie Nicks released “Stand Back” in 1983 as part of her second solo album, The Wild Heart. The song was written on the day of her wedding, inspired by Prince’s “Little Red Corvette.” With its driving synths and infectious energy, “Stand Back” became a dance-floor anthem, showcasing Nicks’ versatility as an artist. The song’s production features a pulsating rhythm, and Nicks’ commanding vocals deliver a message of independence and self-empowerment. “Stand Back” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains a staple in Nicks’ live performances.
6. “Gypsy” (1982)
“Gypsy” was released in 1982 on Fleetwood Mac’s Mirage album and is one of Nicks’ most autobiographical songs. The track captures Nicks’ reflections on her early days before joining Fleetwood Mac, living a bohemian lifestyle and dreaming of a career in music. The lyrics, “To the gypsy that remains… faces freedom with a little fear,” express a longing for the simplicity and freedom of her past, even in the face of fame. Musically, “Gypsy” is a lush, mid-tempo track that blends Nicks’ soulful voice with the band’s signature harmonies. The song’s music video, one of the most expensive of its time, further emphasizes its ethereal quality.
7. “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” (1981)
“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around,” released in 1981 as the lead single from Stevie Nicks’ debut solo album Bella Donna, is a powerful duet with Tom Petty. The song, written by Petty and Mike Campbell, is a gritty rock track about the push and pull of a tumultuous relationship. Nicks and Petty’s voices blend perfectly, creating a dynamic tension that drives the song. The track was a major hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100, and it marked the beginning of a lifelong friendship and musical collaboration between Nicks and Petty. The raw energy of “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” continues to resonate with fans to this day.
8. “Sara” (1979)
“Sara,” released in 1979 on Fleetwood Mac’s Tusk album, is one of Stevie Nicks’ most personal songs. The track is a sprawling, almost mystical ballad that lasts over six minutes, filled with cryptic lyrics and a haunting melody. Nicks has described “Sara” as a song about a lost love, and possibly even about herself, with the name “Sara” holding multiple layers of meaning. The lush production, combined with Nicks’ ethereal vocal delivery, gives the song a dreamlike quality. “Sara” was a top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of Nicks’ most beloved and enigmatic compositions.
9. “Silver Springs” (1977)
“Silver Springs” was originally intended for Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours album in 1977 but was ultimately left off due to space constraints and released as the B-side to “Go Your Own Way.” Written by Nicks about her breakup with Lindsey Buckingham, the song is a poignant expression of unresolved emotions and lingering love. The lyrics, “Time casts a spell on you, but you won’t forget me,” are delivered with a mix of sorrow and defiance, making “Silver Springs” one of Nicks’ most powerful vocal performances. The song gained renewed attention when it was included in Fleetwood Mac’s The Dance live album in 1997, where it became a centerpiece of the band’s reunion tour.
10. “Leather and Lace” (1981)
“Leather and Lace,” released in 1981 on Bella Donna, is a tender duet between Stevie Nicks and Eagles’ frontman Don Henley. The song, originally written for Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, is a romantic ballad that contrasts the hard and soft aspects of love, as represented by the imagery of leather and lace. Nicks and Henley’s voices intertwine beautifully, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The song was a commercial success, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100, and has since become a beloved classic, symbolizing the softer, more introspective side of Nicks’ artistry.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
