Fleetwood Mac singer, keyboardist and songwriter Christine McVie has died at the age of 79.
“On behalf of the family of Kristen McVeigh, it is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of Kristen. Wednesday, November 30, 2022. She passed away peacefully in hospital this morning after a short illness. She passed away peacefully in hospital at The family is by your side. We ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this deeply distressing time, and we hope everyone will keep Kristen in their hearts and remember an incredible human being and beloved musician life. Rest in peace, Christine McVeigh.”
Fleetwood Mac released a joint statement in response to McVie’s shocking death, saying: “There are no words to describe our sadness at the passing of Christine McVie. She was truly unique, special and talented.”
The statement continued: “She was the best musician in your band and the best friend in your life. We are so lucky to have her in our lives. Individually and collectively, we cherish Kristen dearly and are grateful to Great memories we have. We will miss her dearly.”
Christine McVie joined Fleetwood Mac in 1970, shortly after marrying bassist John McVie in 1969. She appeared on 12 of the band’s 17 studio albums. She has also released three solo albums and collaborated with Lindsey Buckingham on the 2017 album Lindsey Buckingham Christine McVie. In 1998, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Fleetwood Mac.
Sheryl Crow has the honor of introducing Fleetwood Mac to Rock Hall. She says of McVie and Stevie Nicks: “In my opinion, Christine McVie and Stevie Nicks are the first ladies of rock and roll. It’s cool that Christine McVie is the pianist in the band.”
Crow added: “She told me it wasn’t about being ‘very good for a girl’. It was about being great. She taught me that I could write a moving rock song on the piano. When I first listened to By the time she sang “Spare Me A Little [Of Your Love]” (from Bare Trees in 1972), I was in shock and I still have the same reaction to that song to this day.”
McVeigh is known to have resigned from Fleetwood Mac in 1998 because he developed a fear of flying. She rejoined the band in 2014 and remained a member until her death.
McVie’s elegant voice, deft keyboard playing and songwriting skills were a major influence on Fleetwood Mac. She wrote/co-wrote some of the band’s greatest and best songs, which are highlighted below.
