Landslide

Hey there, Zoo Freaks! The Zoo Crew is spinning the timeless track "Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac from their 1975 self-titled album, and we’ve got some groovy trivia to share. Stevie Nicks wrote this heartfelt song in 1973 while in Aspen, Colorado, gazing at the snow-covered Rocky Mountains. She was at a crossroads, pondering whether to return to school or keep chasing music with her then-boyfriend, Lindsey Buckingham, after their duo’s album flopped and they were dropped by Polydor Records. Nicks has shared that the song captured her fears of everything crashing down, inspired by the metaphor of an avalanche. In a 2003 interview with Performing Songwriter, she said, “I was tired of being a waitress and a cleaning lady… ‘Landslide’ was the decision” to push forward with music. The song’s raw emotion struck a chord, and though it wasn’t a single in 1975, a 1997 live version from The Dance hit number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Here’s a cool tidbit: “Landslide” has been covered by artists across genres, showing its universal appeal. The Smashing Pumpkins dropped a near-identical acoustic version in 1994, with Billy Corgan’s take earning Nicks’ praise. She told Yahoo! Chat in 1998, “I was very honored to have Billy Corgan pick out that song on his own.” The Dixie Chicks (now The Chicks) took it to the top 10 on pop and country charts in 2002, and Nicks called their version a “beautiful mix” after hearing it performed on Glee. Fans on Reddit have shared personal stories, like one who danced to “Landslide” at their daughter’s wedding, tying it to memories of loss and new beginnings. Another fan on Amazon reviews raved about a 1975 live recording from the Capitol Theatre, calling it a “vintage” gem despite some audio pops.

Now, let’s rewind to how Fleetwood Mac got rolling. Formed in London in 1967 by guitarist Peter Green, the band was rooted in British blues, named after drummer Mick Fleetwood and bassist John McVie. Early hits like “Albatross” topped UK charts, but lineup changes kept things chaotic. Green left in 1970, and after several guitarists, including Danny Kirwan and Bob Welch, the band relocated to California in 1974. That’s when fate stepped in. Mick Fleetwood heard a track by the duo Buckingham Nicks at Sound City Studios and wanted Lindsey Buckingham for the band. Buckingham insisted Stevie Nicks come too, and their addition transformed Fleetwood Mac into a pop-rock powerhouse. The 1975 album, featuring “Landslide,” hit number one in the US, selling over seven million copies, per Wikipedia. Personal drama—divorces, breakups, and affairs—fueled their iconic follow-up, Rumours, but that’s a story for another spin!

Stay connected with Fleetwood Mac through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts for updates on tours and releases. Stevie Nicks also shares her solo journey on her official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can dive deeper at Stevie Nicks Info, a dedicated fan site, or join the vibrant Stevie Nicks Fans Facebook group to swap stories and rare finds. For the full Mac vibe, check out the Fleetwood Mac Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks like you keep the love alive. Keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let “Landslide” carry you through the seasons of life!