Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day.  And if this helps anyone else, even better.

This weekend the music world celebrated two milestones:  On July 12 Christine McVie turned 77 years young while July 11 marked the 45th anniversary of Fleetwood Mac’s 1975 self titled album.

I cannot express how important that album, along with 1977’s smash, Rumours, was to me.  Aside from phenomenal music, to see two strong talented female songwriters in one band was inspiring.  At that time in my life I was lost in a sea of male singers (not a complaint, just a fact) or all male groups until I discovered the women of Fleetwood Mac, McVie and Stevie Nicks.

Between her enormous solo career & theatrical stage performances, Nicks had become a focal point of the group, appearing to outshine McVie.  But one listen to any of her songs, from “Over My Head”, “Don’t Stop”, “You Make Loving Fun” or her keyboard prowess on any number by the band it was clear McVie shone bright all on her own.  In fact, eight of the sixteen songs on the band’s 1988 Greatest Hits album are hers.  And her deep contralto voice makes it as easily recognizable as Nick’s.

She also enjoyed some solo success with 1984’s “Got A Hold On Me” but after the band’s induction into the Rock & Roll HOF in 1998 McVie decided to retire from the band after 28 years.  She did, however, continue to work in studio sessions for them.  By 2014 she rejoined the group where she remains today.  In 2017 she released an album with bandmate Lindsey Buckingham.  I love nearly all of Christine McVie’s songs but today’s is my favorite.

“Baby, baby, hope you’re going to stay away
‘Cause I’m getting weaker, weaker, everyday
I guess I’m not as strong as I used to be
And if you use me again it’ll be the end of me.”

Fleetwood Mac circa 1977 (L-R):  Mick Fleetwood (drums, John McVie (bass, seated) Christine McVie (piano/keyboards), Lindsey Buckingham ( guitar) & Stevie Nicks (vocals).  (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Fleetwood Mac featuring Christine McVie:  “Say You Love Me” (1975, written by Christine McVie).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.