Fleetwood Mac's Lindsey Buckingham has a confession: there's one song he loves but dreads performing live. And it's not for the reasons you might think.
Buckingham, a seasoned performer, has captivated audiences worldwide as a core member of Fleetwood Mac. But there's a hidden struggle behind the scenes with a song close to his heart, 'I'm So Afraid'.
Before joining the iconic band, Buckingham and his musical partner Stevie Nicks had already released their debut album, Buckingham Nicks, which, despite its cult status, didn't reach commercial success. However, Mick Fleetwood's discovery of the album led to the duo's recruitment, changing their fortunes.
Their songwriting prowess became evident on Fleetwood Mac's tenth album, where their contributions were pivotal in shaping the band's dynamics. 'I'm So Afraid', a Buckingham masterpiece, stands out as a technically demanding song, requiring intense focus during live performances.
Buckingham's dedication to this complex creation is admirable. It took four years to perfect, and its intricate guitar harmonies were praised by Fleetwood himself. Yet, the very aspect that makes it special also makes it a challenge to perform regularly.
In a candid moment with Malcolm Gerrie, Buckingham revealed the difficulty of playing 'I'm So Afraid' night after night due to its lengthy solo. Despite the struggle, he never backs down from the challenge, unlike some artists might. Even after Fleetwood Mac's disbandment, Buckingham continues to include the song in his solo sets, indicating its personal significance.
But here's where it gets intriguing: Why does a musician continue to perform a song that's technically demanding and emotionally draining? Is it artistic integrity, a commitment to fans, or something else entirely? Share your thoughts below!