Stevie Nicks is more than just a rock icon; she’s the ethereal queen of timeless music, whose voice has haunted and inspired generations. With a career spanning over five decades, both as a member of Fleetwood Mac and as a solo artist, Nicks has crafted a legacy that transcends genre, era, and style. Her deeply personal lyrics, coupled with that unmistakable, raspy voice, have made her one of the most beloved artists in rock history. But which of her songs stand out as the most iconic? From the witchy, mystical vibes of her early work to the anthems that have become the soundtrack of countless lives, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most popular Stevie Nicks songs of all time. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just beginning your journey into her captivating world, these tracks are sure to remind you why Stevie Nicks remains a musical force unlike any other. So, dust off your tambourine, throw on your best shawl, and let’s dive into the enchanting, enigmatic universe of Stevie Nicks’ greatest hits.
1. “Edge of Seventeen” (1981)
“Edge of Seventeen” is perhaps the quintessential Stevie Nicks anthem, capturing the raw power and mystique that define her music. Released in 1981 as part of her debut solo album Bella Donna, the song immediately stood out for its driving guitar riff, famously played by Waddy Wachtel. Inspired partly by the death of John Lennon and the phrase “the edge of seventeen” spoken by Tom Petty’s first wife, the song channels a deep, emotional intensity that resonates with listeners. Nicks’ haunting vocal delivery, combined with the relentless rhythm, creates an almost hypnotic experience. It’s a song about grief, resilience, and the unyielding passage of time, making it a timeless classic that has only grown in popularity over the decades.
2. “Landslide” (1975)
“Landslide” is one of the most emotionally resonant songs in Stevie Nicks’ repertoire. Released in 1975 as part of Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album, the song is a reflective, acoustic ballad that showcases Nicks’ vulnerable side. Written while she was contemplating her future in music and her relationship with Lindsey Buckingham, the song’s lyrics speak to the fear of change and the passage of time. The gentle strumming of the guitar beautifully complements Nicks’ tender, introspective vocals, making “Landslide” a poignant meditation on life’s inevitable shifts. Over the years, the song has become a staple in both Fleetwood Mac’s and Nicks’ solo performances, beloved for its raw honesty and timeless beauty.
3. “Rhiannon” (1975)
“Rhiannon” is the song that introduced the world to Stevie Nicks’ mystical persona. Released in 1975 on Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album, the track is inspired by the Welsh mythological figure Rhiannon, a powerful and mysterious goddess. The song’s ethereal melody and enigmatic lyrics create an otherworldly atmosphere, perfectly matching Nicks’ haunting vocals. The live performances of “Rhiannon” became legendary, with Nicks often losing herself in the song, as if channeling the spirit of the mythical figure. It’s a song that encapsulates the magic and mystery that Stevie Nicks brings to her music, making it a fan favorite and a defining moment in her career.
4. “Dreams” (1977)
“Dreams” is not just one of Stevie Nicks’ most popular songs; it’s also Fleetwood Mac’s only number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Released in 1977 as part of the band’s iconic Rumours album, the song is a smooth, dreamy track that captures the emotional turmoil within the band at the time. Written in the wake of her breakup with Lindsey Buckingham, “Dreams” is both introspective and universally relatable. Nicks’ soothing yet poignant vocals glide over a hypnotic rhythm, creating a song that is as meditative as it is powerful. The song’s enduring appeal was further highlighted when it went viral in 2020, proving that “Dreams” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with new generations.
5. “Stand Back” (1983)
“Stand Back” is a high-energy, synth-driven track that showcases Stevie Nicks’ ability to craft infectious pop-rock anthems. Released in 1983 as part of her The Wild Heart album, the song was inspired by Prince’s “Little Red Corvette,” and he even contributed uncredited synthesizer work on the track. With its pulsating beat and Nicks’ commanding vocal performance, “Stand Back” became an instant hit, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s electrifying energy and powerful lyrics about independence and self-empowerment have made it a staple in Nicks’ live performances, where it continues to ignite audiences with its unstoppable momentum.
6. “Gypsy” (1982)
Released in 1982 as part of Fleetwood Mac’s Mirage album, “Gypsy” is one of Stevie Nicks’ most beloved songs. The track is a nostalgic look back at Nicks’ early years, before fame and fortune, when she was a struggling artist living a bohemian lifestyle. The song’s delicate intro, with its soft guitar strumming and Nicks’ wistful vocals, gradually builds into a lush, layered production. “Gypsy” beautifully captures the longing for simpler times and the bittersweet memories of a past that can never be reclaimed. The accompanying music video, one of the most expensive of its time, further cemented the song’s iconic status, showcasing Nicks’ ethereal style and deep emotional resonance.
7. “Rooms on Fire” (1989)
“Rooms on Fire” was the lead single from Stevie Nicks’ 1989 album The Other Side of the Mirror, and it quickly became one of her most successful solo hits. The song’s lyrics reflect Nicks’ experiences with fame and the intense emotions that come with it. With its catchy chorus and shimmering production, “Rooms on Fire” captures the essence of Nicks’ mystical, larger-than-life persona while also offering a glimpse into her inner world. The song’s upbeat tempo and Nicks’ soaring vocals make it a standout track in her solo catalog, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
8. “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” (1981)
“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” is a powerful duet between Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty, released in 1981 as the lead single from Nicks’ debut solo album Bella Donna. The song was actually written by Petty and Mike Campbell and was originally intended for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, but Nicks’ passionate delivery made it a perfect fit for her. The track’s gritty guitar riffs and the contrasting vocals of Nicks and Petty create a dynamic interplay that perfectly captures the song’s themes of love, disappointment, and resilience. The success of “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” helped establish Nicks as a solo artist in her own right, separate from Fleetwood Mac.
9. “Leather and Lace” (1981)
“Leather and Lace” is an intimate duet featuring Stevie Nicks and Don Henley of the Eagles, released in 1981 on Nicks’ Bella Donna album. The song was originally written by Nicks for Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, but it eventually became a personal and heartfelt collaboration with Henley, with whom Nicks had a romantic relationship. The song’s gentle acoustic arrangement allows the two voices to blend beautifully, creating a tender and emotional ballad about love, vulnerability, and the balance between strength and sensitivity. “Leather and Lace” showcases Nicks’ softer side and her ability to create deeply personal music that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
10. “Gold Dust Woman” (1977)
“Gold Dust Woman” is one of Stevie Nicks’ most enigmatic and haunting songs, released in 1977 as part of Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours album. The track’s dark, moody atmosphere, combined with Nicks’ ethereal vocals, creates a sense of mystery and intrigue. The song is often interpreted as a reflection on the destructive effects of fame and substance abuse, themes that were prevalent in the lives of Fleetwood Mac’s members during the recording of Rumours. The eerie slide guitar, played by Lindsey Buckingham, and Nicks’ almost shamanic delivery make “Gold Dust Woman” a chilling and unforgettable piece of music. It’s a song that continues to captivate audiences with its haunting beauty and timeless appeal.
Edward Tomlin 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.
