John McVie: The Unsung Songwriter of Fleetwood Mac

In the world of Fleetwood Mac, John McVie’s contributions as a bassist are often overshadowed by the band’s dynamic frontliners. However, McVie’s ability to craft compelling bass lines has been integral to the band’s sound, with tracks like “The Chain” showcasing his talent. While he often collaborated closely with other members, particularly Lindsey Buckingham, McVie’s unique perspective and creativity shone through his work.

Creative Tension with Lindsey Buckingham

In a 1995 interview with Bass Player, McVie reflected on his working relationship with Buckingham, noting, “I butted heads [with] Lindsey a couple times, because he had very fixed ideas. I would say, ‘Look, this is how I feel it.’ He was really the only one to do that, though.” This creative friction often resulted in powerful musical outcomes, as each member brought their distinct style to the table.

Songwriting Credits: A Closer Look

Though McVie is primarily known for his bass work, he managed to secure ten songwriting credits during his time with Fleetwood Mac. While many of these songs may not be the band’s most recognized hits, they offer a glimpse into McVie’s artistic range. Below is a chronological list of McVie’s songwriting credits:

1. “Searching for Madge”

From: Then Play On (1969)

This instrumental track marks a shift for Fleetwood Mac as they began to explore new musical styles. “Searching for Madge,” entirely composed by McVie, retains the band’s electric blues roots.

2. “On We Jam”

From: Live in Boston (1985)

Featuring contributions from multiple band members, this song was recorded in 1970 but released later in 1985. McVie’s involvement as a songwriter highlights the collaborative nature of Fleetwood Mac.

3. “Station Man”

From: Kiln House (1970)

This track, co-written with Danny Kirwan and Jeremy Spencer, showcases a country blues vibe and marks Christine McVie’s first contributions to the band.

4. “Jewel Eyed Judy”

From: Kiln House (1970)

Another co-write with Kirwan and Fleetwood, this song is rumored to be inspired by the band’s secretary, Judy Wong.

5. “The Purple Dancer”

From: B-side Single (1971)

McVie contributed to the B-side of the single “Dragonfly,” showcasing his songwriting skills on this lesser-known track.

6. “What a Shame”

From: Future Games (1971)

This funky instrumental was co-written with both McVies and other members of the band, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that defined Fleetwood Mac.

7. “Forever”

From: Mystery to Me (1973)

“Forever” presents a reggae-infused sound, co-written with Bob Welch and Bob Weston, showcasing McVie’s versatility.

8. “Jam #2”

From: Expanded Edition of 1975’s Fleetwood Mac (2004)

This funky instrumental was part of the expanded edition of their self-titled album, illustrating McVie’s ongoing contribution to the band’s legacy.

9. “The Chain”

From: Rumours (1977)

Perhaps McVie’s most renowned contribution, “The Chain” is the only song credited to all five classic-era members of Fleetwood Mac. Its iconic bass line is a testament to McVie’s foundational role in the band.

10. “For Duster (The Blues)”

From: Expanded Edition of Rumours (2004)

This groovy instrumental features another robust bass line from McVie, adding to the richness of the expanded Rumours collection.

Conclusion

John McVie may often be regarded as the quiet backbone of Fleetwood Mac, but his contributions as a songwriter and bassist have left an indelible mark on the band’s legacy. From deep cuts to iconic tracks, McVie’s work deserves recognition and appreciation. His ability to navigate through creative tensions and collaborate effectively with his bandmates has solidified his place in music history.

FAQs

1. How many songwriting credits does John McVie have with Fleetwood Mac?

John McVie has a total of ten songwriting credits during his time with Fleetwood Mac.

2. What is the most famous song that features John McVie’s bass line?

The most famous song featuring John McVie’s bass line is “The Chain,” from the album Rumours.

3. Did John McVie write any songs on his own?

Yes, he wrote several songs on his own, including “Searching for Madge,” which is an instrumental track from the album Then Play On.

4. What is the significance of “The Chain” in Fleetwood Mac’s discography?

“The Chain” is significant as it is the only song credited to all five classic-era members of Fleetwood Mac, highlighting its collaborative nature.

5. How did John McVie contribute to Fleetwood Mac’s sound?

McVie contributed to Fleetwood Mac’s sound primarily through his innovative bass lines, which provided a foundation for the band’s diverse musical styles.