Few artists embody the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll like Stevie Nicks. With her ethereal voice, mystical persona, and spellbinding lyrics, Nicks has captivated generations of fans, both as a member of the iconic Fleetwood Mac and as a powerhouse solo artist. Her songs weave tales of love, heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery, creating a timeless soundtrack that resonates across decades. Whether you’re drawn in by her haunting vocals or her mystical stage presence, there’s no denying that Stevie Nicks has carved out a legendary place in music history.
In this article, we celebrate the top 10 most popular Stevie Nicks songs of all time—tracks that have not only defined her illustrious career but also left an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of listeners worldwide. From chart-topping hits to deep cuts that have become cult favorites, these songs showcase the magic, power, and emotion that have made Nicks one of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time. Ready to dive into the enchanted musical world of Stevie Nicks? Let’s explore the unforgettable tracks that have solidified her status as the reigning queen of rock.
1. “Edge of Seventeen” (1981)
Released on Nicks’ debut solo album Bella Donna, “Edge of Seventeen” is a driving anthem that captures the raw intensity of love and loss. Inspired by the tragic deaths of John Lennon and her uncle, the song’s iconic guitar riff and Nicks’ raspy, impassioned vocals have made it one of her most enduring hits. The title, famously born from a misunderstanding of Tom Petty’s wife saying “the age of seventeen,” is now synonymous with Nicks’ fierce independence and mystical aura. The song’s relentless energy and poetic lyrics continue to resonate with fans, standing as one of her finest moments in rock history.
2. “Landslide” (1975)
“Landslide” is a poignant reflection on life’s inevitable changes, written while Nicks was at a crossroads in her career. Released on Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album in 1975, the acoustic ballad showcases Nicks’ vulnerable side, exploring themes of aging, self-doubt, and growth. Her delicate vocals and finger-picked guitar create an intimate atmosphere, making it a favorite for fans and artists alike, with numerous covers by artists such as The Dixie Chicks and Smashing Pumpkins. Timeless and deeply personal, “Landslide” has become an anthem for anyone facing life’s transitions.
3. “Rhiannon” (1975)
Inspired by a Welsh mythological figure, “Rhiannon” is one of Stevie Nicks’ most iconic and mystical songs. First appearing on Fleetwood Mac’s 1975 self-titled album, the song is a mesmerizing blend of rock, folk, and Nicks’ signature ethereal storytelling. The track’s haunting piano melody and Nicks’ spellbinding vocals transport listeners to another world, where the enigmatic Rhiannon reigns. It’s a song that has captivated fans for decades and remains a staple in Nicks’ live performances, often stretching beyond its original form into extended, hypnotic renditions.
4. “Dreams” (1977)
“Dreams” is not only one of Stevie Nicks’ most famous compositions but also the only Fleetwood Mac song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Released on the Rumours album in 1977, the song reflects the emotional turmoil within the band, particularly Nicks’ breakup with Lindsey Buckingham. The smooth, hypnotic beat paired with Nicks’ haunting vocals creates an unforgettable listening experience. “Dreams” became a chart-topping hit, and its resurgence in recent years—thanks to viral moments on social media—proves its timeless appeal across generations.
5. “Stand Back” (1983)
“Stand Back” is an electrifying fusion of rock and synth-pop, released in 1983 on Nicks’ second solo album The Wild Heart. Inspired by Prince’s “Little Red Corvette,” Nicks famously called Prince to collaborate on the song, though he remained uncredited. The track’s pulsating beat and powerful vocals make it one of Nicks’ most energetic and danceable hits. “Stand Back” has since become a fan favorite, showcasing Nicks’ ability to seamlessly blend rock with the evolving sounds of the 1980s while maintaining her distinctive style.
6. “Gypsy” (1982)
Released on Fleetwood Mac’s Mirage album in 1982, “Gypsy” is a whimsical and nostalgic track that reflects on Nicks’ early days of chasing dreams. The song’s lyrics look back on her time before fame, living in San Francisco with Lindsey Buckingham. With dreamy, wistful vocals and a soothing melody, “Gypsy” is both a celebration of her bohemian spirit and a reminder of the trials faced along the way to stardom. Its airy, mystical tone perfectly encapsulates Nicks’ unique blend of vulnerability and strength.
7. “Leather and Lace” (1981)
“Leather and Lace” is a duet between Stevie Nicks and Don Henley, released on her Bella Donna album in 1981. Originally written for Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, the song instead became a powerful romantic ballad between Nicks and Henley, reflecting their own personal relationship at the time. The song’s gentle acoustic background allows their harmonies to shine, creating a hauntingly beautiful contrast between strength and tenderness. “Leather and Lace” remains a fan favorite and one of Nicks’ most poignant love songs.
8. “Sara” (1979)
“Sara,” released in 1979 on Fleetwood Mac’s Tusk album, is a sprawling, emotional epic that runs over six minutes in its original form. The song is deeply personal, with Nicks once describing “Sara” as “the poet in my heart.” Its flowing composition and evocative lyrics have sparked much speculation about its meaning, with themes of love, loss, and longing weaving throughout the track. “Sara” is a testament to Nicks’ ability to craft deeply emotional, complex narratives within her music, and it remains a cherished song among her fans.
9. “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” (1981)
“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” is a fiery collaboration between Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty, released in 1981 as part of Nicks’ Bella Donna album. The song, written by Petty and Mike Campbell, blends Nicks’ sultry voice with Petty’s rock-and-roll edge, creating a dynamic and energetic track about a tumultuous relationship. The song became one of Nicks’ biggest hits, showcasing her ability to seamlessly collaborate with other artists while retaining her unique voice and presence.
10. “Gold Dust Woman” (1977)
“Gold Dust Woman” closes Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours album with a dark, brooding intensity. Released in 1977, the song is often interpreted as a reflection of Nicks’ struggles with fame, relationships, and substance abuse. Its eerie, hypnotic sound, coupled with Nicks’ mesmerizing vocals, creates a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the song ends. “Gold Dust Woman” has since become one of Nicks’ most iconic songs, embodying her mysterious, enigmatic persona while offering a glimpse into her personal battles.