Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” is one of the best-selling albums of all time and one of the most infamous records in rock history due to the chaos surrounding its creation. With its hit singles like “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” and “Don’t Stop,” the album became an iconic soundtrack of the 1970s.
However, behind the polished harmonies and infectious rhythms lies a storm of personal turmoil, heartbreak, and betrayal. Many have referred to the making of “Rumours” as “cursed,” given the band’s internal struggles, failed relationships, and rampant substance use—all of which nearly destroyed Fleetwood Mac.
A Band Falling Apart
By the time Fleetwood Mac began recording “Rumours,” every band member was in some form of emotional crisis. Christine McVie and John McVie, who had been married, were divorcing, and tensions were rising. Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, the band’s star couple, ended their relationship in a whirlwind of arguments and resentment. Drummer Mick Fleetwood had his troubles, including a failing marriage, and all members were battling the pressures of fame and the relentless demands of the music industry.
The emotional pain and rawness that the band members felt were poured into the album’s lyrics, resulting in songs that spoke of heartbreak, betrayal, and longing. Tracks like “The Chain” and “Go Your Own Way” are filled with pointed lyrics and subtle jabs aimed at each other, yet they resonated with listeners who could feel the genuine emotion behind the music. This turbulent environment, mixed with copious amounts of alcohol and drugs, led many to believe the recording sessions were plagued with a curse—one that brought both incredible success and almost unbearable suffering.
The Curse and Its Aftermath
The so-called “curse” of “Rumours” didn’t end with its recording. Despite the massive commercial success of the album—selling over 40 million copies worldwide—the band struggled to hold itself together in the years that followed. Their subsequent tours were marred by tension and unpredictable behavior. Mick Fleetwood declared bankruptcy, relationships within the band continued to fall apart, and members drifted in and out of the lineup as they sought to cope with the emotional fallout of their newfound fame.
The curse seemed to follow them even beyond the Rumours era. Although Fleetwood Mac remained successful, they never entirely escaped the personal problems and interpersonal conflicts that defined their story. The very album that had launched them into the stratosphere also almost destroyed them, giving credence to the idea that “Rumours” was both a blessing and a curse—a jinxed masterpiece of rock music.
But just like Fleetwood Mac’s struggle with the so-called curse, there’s always a certain thrill in taking a chance and embracing the unpredictability of life. This feeling of risk keeps both rock music and games of chance exciting. Whether it’s a musician navigating the pitfalls of fame or someone testing their luck at Jinx Casino, uncertainty adds to the thrill. The players can experience their ups and downs, much like the rollercoaster of emotions behind Fleetwood Mac’s most excellent album.
The Legacy of Rumours
Despite the turmoil, “Rumours” have become a cultural phenomenon. The album’s honesty and rawness connected with millions of listeners, and its enduring popularity has cemented Fleetwood Mac’s place in rock history. In many ways, the band’s struggles while making “Rumours” gave the album its power. Heartbreak, anger, and longing are all part of the music, making the album an unforgettable testament to the highs and lows of music and life.
Even today, the story of Rumours reminds us that some of the greatest art comes from moments of struggle. The so-called curse of the album may have brought hardship, but it also produced an album that continues to inspire and resonate, proving that there can be light even in the darkest of times.
“Rumours” is often regarded as one of the greatest albums ever. Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003, it was ranked third in Q’s list of the 50 Best Albums of the ’70s and featured in Vibe’s 100 Essential Albums of the 20th Century. VH1 placed it 16th in its 100 Greatest Albums countdown, while Rolling Stone listed it multiple times among the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. It has received critical acclaim in various notable lists.
