The Fleetwood Mac co-founder and drummer Mick Fleetwood turns 77 today
As the co-founder and drummer of Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood played a pivotal role in one of the most successful bands in rock history with his distinctive drumming style and leadership
The Fleetwood Mac co-founder and drummer Mick Fleetwood turns 77 today
Mick Fleetwood was born Michael John Kells Fleetwood on June 24, 1947, in Redruth, Cornwall, England. Growing up in a family with a strong military background, Fleetwood spent his early years in various countries, including Egypt and Norway, due to his father’s Royal Air Force postings. His exposure to diverse cultures and environments sparked an early interest in music, particularly drumming.
Fleetwood’s musical career began in earnest when he moved to London as a teenager. He joined several bands, including The Cheynes and John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, where he first met John McVie. In 1967, Fleetwood, McVie, and guitarist Peter Green left the Bluesbreakers to form Fleetwood Mac. The band’s initial sound was rooted in blues, and they quickly gained a following in the UK.
Fleetwood Mac’s early albums, such as “Fleetwood Mac” (1968) and “Mr. Wonderful” (1968), showcased their blues prowess. However, as the band’s lineup evolved, so did their musical direction. The addition of Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks, and Lindsey Buckingham in the mid-1970s transformed Fleetwood Mac into a pop-rock powerhouse.
The release of “Fleetwood Mac” (1975) marked the beginning of the band’s most commercially successful era. The album included hits like “Rhiannon” and “Say You Love Me.” However, it was their next album, “Rumours” (1977), that became a cultural phenomenon. “Rumours” is one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring classics such as “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” and “The Chain.” Fleetwood’s steady and dynamic drumming provided the backbone for the band’s intricate sound.
Other notable works include “Tusk” (1979), which showcased the band’s willingness to experiment, and “Tango in the Night” (1987), which produced hits like “Big Love” and “Little Lies.” Fleetwood’s contributions were integral to the band’s success, both as a musician and as a stabilizing force amidst the band’s often tumultuous relationships.
Fleetwood Mac’s lineup changes and internal conflicts led to periods of inactivity, but Mick Fleetwood’s passion for music never waned. He pursued solo projects and formed the Mick Fleetwood Blues Band, exploring his blues roots. Albums like “The Visitor” (1981) and “Blue Again!” (2008) allowed him to experiment with different styles and collaborate with other artists.
Fleetwood has also delved into acting and writing, with appearances in films and television, as well as authoring several books, including his autobiography, “Play On: Now, Then, and Fleetwood Mac” (2014), which offers an intimate look at his life and career.
Mick Fleetwood continues to be an active and influential figure in the music industry. He has been involved in various Fleetwood Mac reunions and tours, the most recent being the band’s 2018-2019 world tour. In 2020, Fleetwood organized a tribute concert for Peter Green, showcasing his dedication to honoring the band’s roots and history, but recently, with the death of Christine McVie, there have been rumours that the band has put a definitive end to their activity.
Fleetwood’s personal life has been as eventful as his career. He has been married four times and has four children. His relationships and struggles with substance abuse have been well-documented, but he has emerged resilient and reflective, often sharing his experiences to help others.
Fleetwood splits his time between homes in Hawaii and California, enjoying a quieter lifestyle when not on tour. His interests include photography and winemaking, and he owns a restaurant, Fleetwood’s on Front St., in Maui, Hawaii.
Watch the Fleetwood Mac music video for the 1977 enduring hit song “Go Your Own Way”
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