Gypsy (2017 Version)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the ethereal "Gypsy (2017 Version)" by Stevie Nicks, crafted specifically for the Netflix series Gypsy. This re-recorded take on the 1982 Fleetwood Mac classic, originally from the album Mirage, strips the song down to its roots, emphasizing Nicks' original vision. In a 2017 interview with Entertainment Weekly, Nicks shared her excitement, saying, “I’m very excited for the world to hear ‘Gypsy’ more like I wrote it — on piano. I am very proud of this version.” The track, produced by Greg Kurstin, known for his work with Adele and Sia, captures a haunting, piano-driven intimacy that contrasts with the original’s rock energy. Nicks herself posted on X in June 2017, calling it a “new version of her classic,” inviting fans to experience this fresh interpretation.

The song’s creation for the show was no accident. Gypsy showrunner Lisa Rubin revealed she was inspired by the original Fleetwood Mac track while outlining the series in a coffee shop. Initially considering a cover or the original, Rubin ultimately sought Nicks’ involvement. After some persuasion, Nicks agreed, finding a personal connection when she learned two characters in the show owned a dog named Stevie, a nod that delighted the animal-loving artist. The song’s lyrics, tied to Nicks’ nostalgia for her pre-Fleetwood Mac days, resonate with the show’s themes of identity and freedom, making it a fitting choice for the psychological thriller starring Naomi Watts.

Beyond its musical allure, the 2017 version sparked conversation due to the show’s title. Some fans on platforms like LiveJournal debated the use of “Gypsy,” noting its controversial connotations as a term tied to Romani stereotypes. While the original song romanticizes a bohemian lifestyle, reflecting Nicks’ memories of shopping at San Francisco’s Velvet Underground store, the show’s title drew criticism from Roma organizations for perpetuating outdated tropes. Despite this, Nicks’ performance remained a highlight, with fans praising her ability to reimagine a song so deeply personal, written in 1979 and dedicated to her late friend Robin Anderson, who passed away from leukemia in 1982.

Stevie Nicks, born Stephanie Lynn Nicks on May 26, 1948, in Phoenix, Arizona, began her musical journey at a young age, singing country duets with her grandfather at four. Her passion for music deepened in high school in San Francisco, where she met Lindsey Buckingham, her future collaborator and partner. The duo formed the band Fritz, but it wasn’t until they recorded the 1973 album Buckingham Nicks with Polydor Records that they caught the eye of Mick Fleetwood. Though the album flopped, it led to their invitation to join Fleetwood Mac in 1975. That same year, their self-titled album, featuring Nicks’ iconic “Rhiannon,” topped the charts, catapulting the band to fame. Nicks’ mystical stage presence and distinctive voice became hallmarks of Fleetwood Mac’s success, particularly with the 1977 album Rumours, certified 20× platinum in the US.

In 1981, while still with Fleetwood Mac, Nicks launched a solo career with Bella Donna, which hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and earned multiplatinum status. Her solo work, blending rock, pop, and her signature bohemian aesthetic, solidified her as a cultural icon. Over the decades, Nicks has sold over 65 million records, earning her a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice—once with Fleetwood Mac and once as a solo artist, a first for a woman. Despite personal struggles, including addiction and a turbulent relationship with Buckingham, Nicks’ resilience and dedication to her art have kept her a beloved figure, inspiring artists like Taylor Swift and Harry Styles.

Fans can connect with Nicks through her official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. For deeper dives, Stevie Nicks Info offers news and updates, while the Reddit community r/stevienicks buzzes with fan discussions, from concert tips to song covers. The tribute band Gypsy, A True Stevie Nicks Experience, recreates her magic live, and events like Night of 1000 Stevies celebrate her legacy with performances and fan gatherings. Whether you’re a Zoo Freak or a lifelong devotee, Nicks’ enchanting world is just a click away.