Stand Back

The Zoo Crew is spinning the iconic track "Stand Back" by Stevie Nicks from her 1983 album The Wild Heart, and Zoo Freaks, you're in for some juicy trivia about this song! One of the most fascinating stories behind "Stand Back" is how it came to life on Nicks' wedding day. While driving, she heard Prince’s "Little Red Corvette" on the radio, which sparked her inspiration. She began humming a melody, and that night in the honeymoon suite, she recorded a demo using a tape recorder. Later, in the studio, Nicks called Prince to share the story, and he showed up that same night, February 8, 1983, to add uncredited synthesizer parts to the track. In a true rock 'n' roll gesture, Prince and Nicks agreed to split the publishing royalties 50-50, and he left the session like it was all a dream, as Nicks later recalled. This collaboration, though uncredited on the album, added a unique synth-driven edge to the song, blending Nicks’ mystical vibe with Prince’s funky flair.

Another tidbit Zoo Freaks might love is the song’s music video saga. Two videos were shot for "Stand Back." The first, dubbed the "Scarlett Version," was a lavish production inspired by Gone with the Wind, directed by Brian Grant. However, Nicks rejected it, feeling she didn’t look her best, and it remained unreleased until it surfaced on the DVD supplement of her 2007 compilation Crystal Visions – The Very Best of Stevie Nicks, complete with her commentary. The second, more budget-friendly video, directed by choreographer Jeffrey Hornaday, featured Nicks performing in a spotlight-filled room with glass walls and mirrors, mixed with choreographed dance sequences. This version became the one aired on television and included in her video collections. The song itself, released as the lead single from The Wild Heart in May 1983, climbed to number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the Top Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, becoming a staple in Nicks’ solo performances and Fleetwood Mac’s setlists since 1987.

Diving into how Stevie Nicks got her start, her journey is a classic rock tale. Born Stephanie Lynn Nicks on May 26, 1948, in Phoenix, Arizona, she was drawn to music early, singing country duets with her grandfather at age four. Her love for music grew in San Francisco, where she attended Menlo-Atherton High School and met Lindsey Buckingham, her future musical and romantic partner. Their chemistry sparked at a high school party in 1966 when they sang "California Dreamin’" together. By 1968, Buckingham invited Nicks to join his band Fritz, which opened for legends like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin in the Bay Area. After Fritz disbanded, Nicks and Buckingham formed Buckingham Nicks, releasing a self-titled album in 1973 that, despite its initial commercial failure, caught the ear of Mick Fleetwood. In 1975, Nicks and Buckingham joined Fleetwood Mac, transforming the band into a global phenomenon with albums like Rumours, which sold over 40 million copies worldwide. Nicks launched her solo career in 1981 with Bella Donna, solidifying her status as a rock icon with hits like "Edge of Seventeen."

Zoo Freaks lookingvisual studio can stay connected with Stevie Nicks through her official channels and fan communities. Her Facebook page, with over 3.2 million likes, keeps fans updated on tours and releases, like her Complete Studio Albums & Rarities collection. On Instagram, she shares nostalgic photos and tour moments, while her X account offers personal insights and fan interactions. Fans can dive deeper at The Nicks Fix, the official fan site with tour dates, discographies, and news. Dedicated fan groups like the Stevie Nicks Fan Club on Facebook provide a space for Zoo Freaks to share their love for her music, discuss concert experiences, and post rare photos, fostering a vibrant community for all things Stevie.