Stevie Nicks recently offered fans a rare glimpse into her past, sharing a personal letter from 1973. The handwritten note, sent to her parents during the recording of the album Buckingham Nicks, highlights the intense work and her aspirations before she joined Fleetwood Mac. This intimate look comes as the duo's only studio album, Buckingham Nicks, sees its first digital release.
The letter provides a unique insight into the mindset of the then 25-year-old artist. It reveals her dedication to the music, her hopes for future success, and a touch of humor regarding her family. This historical document connects directly to the album's recent re-release, which became available on streaming platforms and in limited vinyl editions on September 19.
Key Takeaways
- Stevie Nicks shared a 1973 letter to her parents about recording Buckingham Nicks.
- The letter details long studio hours and Nicks' aspirations for success.
- Buckingham Nicks, the duo's only album, recently received its first digital re-release.
- The album led to Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham joining Fleetwood Mac in 1974.
A Glimpse into the Past: The 1973 Letter
On a Monday, the 77-year-old singer posted the letter on Instagram. It was written on stationery from Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, California. This studio was a key location for many iconic albums during that era.
The letter dates back to 1973, one year before Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham became members of Fleetwood Mac. Nicks explained that her mother had saved the note for over 50 years. This preservation allowed fans to read a direct account from a pivotal moment in her career.
Nicks captioned her Instagram post:
"I wanted to share this letter I wrote to my family while Lindsey and I were making Buckingham Nicks. My mom saved it and it’s been in a drawer for over 50 years."
The shared letter underscores the personal nature of Nicks' journey before her rise to global fame.
Fact: Sound City Studios
- Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, California, opened in 1969.
- It became famous for its unique sound, particularly from its Neve 8028 analog mixing console.
- Many legendary albums were recorded there, including Fleetwood Mac's Rumours, Nirvana's Nevermind, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' Damn the Torpedoes.
Long Hours and High Hopes in the Studio
In the letter, Nicks described the demanding recording process. She wrote about being "very tired of listening to over 12 hours of music per day." Despite the fatigue, she expressed strong confidence in the project.
She believed the hard work would ultimately succeed. Nicks envisioned a future where her efforts would lead to a comfortable life. She imagined a "small but luxurious Beverly Hills home" with a secluded pool.
Her youthful aspirations included playful comments about future cosmetic procedures. She wrote, "And when I am sitting in my small but luxurious Beverly Hills home overlooking my small but tasteful pool that is totally secluded, where I can sun in the nude and tan my entire fat body while waiting for my plastic surgery leg lift - it will all be worth it." This shows her blend of ambition and humor.
Family Humor and Birthday Plans
Nicks also checked in on her family in the letter. She hoped they were "doing fine and not working too hard." She playfully teased her father, Jess Nicks, about his appearance.
She joked that he was "already beautifully tan and lythe." At 25, Nicks noted her father, then 47, looked better than her. She wrote, "How sickening that he looks better than I do at 47(?) and I’m only 25. (Give me a break, Dad!)."
The letter also revealed her plans for her upcoming 25th birthday, which falls on May 26. She suggested dedicating the entire month of May to celebrate this "new landmark." Nicks requested her family to plan a "gala celebration" and accept presents after May 1.
Background: Stevie Nicks' Early Career
Before joining Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham performed as a duo. They met during high school in California. Their musical partnership developed over several years, leading to their debut album, Buckingham Nicks, in 1973. This period was crucial for developing their unique sound and songwriting style. The album, though not a commercial hit at the time, was instrumental in catching the attention of Mick Fleetwood.
The Music That Caught Attention
Nicks expressed her desire for her family to hear the music they were creating. She specifically highlighted a rock and roll tune that her father and brother Chris liked.
She referred to it as "Baby Baby, don't treat me so bad." This track was an early version of "Don't Let Me Down Again," which later appeared on the Buckingham Nicks album. She praised Lindsey Buckingham's guitar work, predicting he might "go down in history as one of 'greats' in guitar playing."
Nicks concluded the letter by sending her love and asking her family to "hold good thoughts about this thing." These good thoughts, combined with the album's talent, led to a significant turning point.
In 1974, Mick Fleetwood heard the album during a studio visit. Impressed by their sound, he invited Nicks and Buckingham to join Fleetwood Mac. This invitation changed the course of their careers and music history.
Buckingham Nicks Reissued for a New Generation
The album Buckingham Nicks was reissued on September 19. This marked its first digital availability on streaming platforms. The reissue also included two limited vinyl editions.
The tracks for these reissues were remastered. Files were sourced directly from the original analog master tapes. This ensures the highest quality sound for listeners.
While the album was not a major commercial success upon its initial release, it showcased the duo's distinct musical abilities. It featured their signature harmonies and evocative melodies. These elements would later become hallmarks of Fleetwood Mac's sound.
- Original Release Date: 1973
- Recent Reissue Date: September 19
- Formats: Digital streaming, limited vinyl editions
- Remastering: From original analog master tapes
Stevie Nicks reflected on their collaboration in the album's liner notes. She stated, "[We] knew what we had as a duo, two songwriters that sang really well together. And it was a very natural thing, from the beginning.”
Lindsey Buckingham echoed her sentiments. He remarked that the album "stands up in a way you hope it would, by these two kids who were pretty young to be doing that work." This highlights the enduring quality of their early music.
Stevie Nicks' Ongoing Solo Career and Tour
Beyond the reissue, Stevie Nicks continues her solo career. She is currently on tour, performing for fans across the country. Her tour schedule experienced a temporary pause due to a fractured shoulder.
Several August and September dates were rescheduled. A statement announced the pause, noting, "The concert schedule will resume on Wednesday, October 1st in Portland, Oregon."
Nicks expressed her apologies to fans for any inconvenience. She looks forward to resuming performances soon. Her solo work continues to draw large audiences, showcasing her lasting appeal as an artist.
Stevie Nicks: A Solo Force
- Released her first solo album, Bella Donna, in 1981.
- Has released eight studio albums as a solo artist.
- Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice: once with Fleetwood Mac (1998) and once as a solo artist (2019).
- Known for hit singles like "Edge of Seventeen," "Stand Back," and "Rooms on Fire."