The re-release of the album “Buckingham Nicks” marks a significant moment in music history, offering listeners a fresh opportunity to appreciate the early works of Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham before their rise to fame with Fleetwood Mac. This debut album, initially recorded in 1973, captures the raw talent and musical synergy between Nicks and Buckingham, two artists whose later contributions would significantly shape rock music.
“California Dreamin’,” a duet performed at a San Francisco Christian youth party in 1966, marked the beginnings of their musical partnership. Two years later, Nicks joined Buckingham in the Fritz Rabyne Memorial Band, a psychedelic rock group. Their early years included sharing the stage with legendary acts like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, experiences that infused their shared journey with elements of rock legend.
The initial journey was not without challenges. Despite their manager’s efforts, Fritz could not secure a record deal. However, Keith Olsen, a rising producer, saw potential in Nicks and Buckingham. Persuading them to part with the rest of Fritz, fresh demos as a duo led to a contract with Polydor, belatedly culminating in the creation of “Buckingham Nicks.” Despite financial hurdles, such as Nicks working multiple jobs to support their efforts, the album emerged as a precursor to their later successes.
The album’s intricate arrangements and dynamic compositions foreshadow the sound that Fleetwood Mac would famously adopt and refine. Songs like “Stephanie” and “Long Distance Winner” showcase Buckingham’s exceptional fingerpicking technique and Nicks’s distinctive voice and songwriting. The track “Frozen Love” holds particular historical significance, as its later play for Mick Fleetwood led to their incorporation into Fleetwood Mac.
Visually, the album cover bears a tale of its own. A provocative nude shot of the duo, conceived by Jimmy Wachtel, sparked internal conflict. While Nicks expressed discomfort, fearing its boldness, the image symbolized a turning point in her career. Her father’s perspective on choice left a lasting impression on her, serving as a guiding principle throughout her tenure in Fleetwood Mac.
Currently reissued by Rhino, “Buckingham Nicks” offers a new generation of listeners access to its original magic after being largely accessible only in bootleg form online. The compilation includes ten tracks, each revealing a different facet of the duo’s prowess and potential.
With the re-release of “Buckingham Nicks,” music enthusiasts can revisit and appreciate this critical stepping stone in the careers of two iconic musicians. More than just an album, it represents a narrative of perseverance, artistic growth, and eventual triumph in the rock and roll landscape.