Stevie Nicks, the iconic voice of Fleetwood Mac and a legendary solo artist, has enchanted audiences for decades with her mystical lyrics, ethereal voice, and unforgettable stage presence. Known for her unique blend of rock, folk, and a touch of the supernatural, Nicks has created a catalog of songs that have transcended generations. From anthems of heartache and empowerment to introspective ballads that explore the depths of the human spirit, her music continues to resonate with fans young and old.
With a career that spans over five decades, choosing just ten of her most popular songs is no easy task. Whether she’s casting a spell with her haunting vocals in Fleetwood Mac or captivating the world as a solo artist, Stevie Nicks has left an indelible mark on rock history. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 most popular Stevie Nicks songs of all time. These tracks have defined her career, showcasing her ability to weave magic into music and solidifying her status as the “Queen of Rock and Roll.” So, sit back, turn up the volume, and let the enchanting world of Stevie Nicks transport you to a timeless state of musical bliss.
1. Edge of Seventeen (1981)
Released on her debut solo album Bella Donna, “Edge of Seventeen” quickly became one of Stevie Nicks’ signature songs. The song’s unforgettable guitar riff, inspired by Tom Petty’s guitarist Mike Campbell, pulses with raw energy, while Nicks’ distinctive voice soars with an emotional intensity that captures both loss and resilience. Written in response to the death of her uncle and the murder of John Lennon, the track is a powerful anthem of grief, strength, and survival. The title, inspired by a conversation with Tom Petty’s wife, Jane, about the pronunciation of “age of seventeen,” adds a layer of mystique to its already enigmatic charm. This song solidified Nicks as a solo superstar, and its timeless appeal keeps it a fan favorite to this day.
2. Landslide (1975)
“Landslide” is perhaps one of Stevie Nicks’ most poignant and introspective songs, originally featured on Fleetwood Mac’s Fleetwood Mac album. Written when Nicks was at a critical juncture in her life, the song reflects on the inevitability of change and the passage of time. Its gentle acoustic guitar, played by Lindsey Buckingham, provides a delicate backdrop for Nicks’ hauntingly beautiful lyrics. “Landslide” has remained a beloved track for decades, often covered by artists across various genres. Whether interpreted as a reflection on personal growth, love, or the uncertainty of life, “Landslide” continues to touch listeners’ hearts with its timeless wisdom and vulnerability.
3. Rhiannon (1975)
Inspired by a Welsh mythological figure, “Rhiannon” is one of the defining tracks of Fleetwood Mac’s 1975 self-titled album. Stevie Nicks wrote this song about a mysterious woman who is “taken by the wind,” a character full of intrigue and power. With its mystical lyrics and infectious melody, “Rhiannon” showcases Nicks’ ability to blend rock and folklore into a magical narrative. The live performances of the song became legendary, with Nicks often embodying the character of Rhiannon on stage, making it a central part of her iconic stage persona. The song remains a testament to her storytelling prowess and her connection to the ethereal.
4. Stand Back (1983)
“Stand Back,” from the album The Wild Heart, is an electrifying dance-rock anthem that showcases Stevie Nicks at her most confident and powerful. Released in 1983, the track was inspired by Prince’s “Little Red Corvette.” In fact, Prince himself even played an uncredited part on the song’s synthesizers. The driving beat, combined with Nicks’ commanding vocals, makes “Stand Back” a standout in her solo catalog. It’s a song about independence, determination, and reclaiming power, themes that resonate deeply with Nicks’ fans. The song’s infectious energy and bold production have made it a staple at her live shows and a timeless favorite.
5. Dreams (1977)
“Dreams” is the only Fleetwood Mac song to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it remains one of the band’s most iconic tracks. Featured on their legendary Rumours album, “Dreams” is a smooth, hypnotic song about heartbreak and the dissolution of relationships, written by Nicks during a tumultuous time in her relationship with Lindsey Buckingham. With its dreamy melody and emotionally charged lyrics, “Dreams” captured the complexities of love and loss, resonating deeply with listeners. The song experienced a resurgence in popularity in 2020 thanks to a viral TikTok video, proving that its appeal is as strong today as it was when it was first released.
6. Gypsy (1982)
“Gypsy,” from Fleetwood Mac’s Mirage album, is a nostalgic reflection on Stevie Nicks’ early days before fame. The song captures the free spirit and uncertainty of her pre-Fleetwood Mac life, when she lived in a small apartment and dreamed of making it big. The lyrics “to the gypsy that remains” reflect a longing for the simplicity and innocence of those times, even after achieving massive success. With its lush instrumentation and Nicks’ heartfelt vocals, “Gypsy” is both a celebration of her journey and a reminder of the person she was before the world knew her name.
7. Leather and Lace (1981)
Written as a duet with Don Henley of the Eagles, “Leather and Lace” is a tender ballad from Nicks’ Bella Donna album. The song contrasts the delicate with the rugged, symbolizing the balance of strength and vulnerability in relationships. Nicks originally wrote the song for Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, but when that collaboration didn’t materialize, she recorded it with Henley. The emotional depth and harmonies between Nicks and Henley create a beautiful contrast, making “Leather and Lace” a standout love song in her catalog.
8. Rooms on Fire (1989)
“Rooms on Fire” was the lead single from Stevie Nicks’ 1989 album The Other Side of the Mirror. The song, with its shimmering production and infectious melody, reflects Nicks’ feelings about love and fame. Written during a time of personal transition, the track captures the dichotomy of being deeply in love while also feeling overwhelmed by life’s chaos. The song’s mysterious lyrics and uplifting energy make it one of Nicks’ most memorable solo hits, and it reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100.
9. Sara (1979)
“Sara” is a sprawling, epic track from Fleetwood Mac’s Tusk album. At nearly seven minutes in length, the song is one of Nicks’ most personal and enigmatic works. The song’s lyrics have been interpreted in many ways, but they seem to touch on themes of love, loss, and longing. “Sara” is rumored to be about various aspects of Nicks’ life, including her close relationships within the band and the emotional turbulence she experienced during that time. The song’s haunting melody and poetic lyrics make “Sara” a standout in Nicks’ extensive catalog.
10. Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around (1981)
A collaboration with Tom Petty, “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” was the first single from Nicks’ debut solo album Bella Donna. With its gritty rock edge and the undeniable chemistry between Nicks and Petty, the song became a massive hit, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The driving guitar and Nicks’ powerful vocals, combined with Petty’s laid-back cool, make this track an unforgettable rock duet. It’s a song about a toxic relationship, where one partner is constantly pulling the other down, and it remains one of the most iconic duets in rock history.
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.
