About the song
“Landslide,” an evocative song by Fleetwood Mac, was penned and performed by Stevie Nicks and first appeared on the band’s self-titled album released in 1975. Known for its poignant lyrics and simple yet powerful acoustic arrangement, “Landslide” has since become one of Fleetwood Mac’s most enduring and beloved tracks. The song’s understated beauty and reflective nature have allowed it to stand the test of time, earning a place on various compilation albums, including *25 Years – The Chain* (1992), *The Very Best of Fleetwood Mac* (2002), and *50 Years – Don’t Stop* (2018).
Despite its initial release not being accompanied by a single, “Landslide” gained significant recognition through live performances. A notable live version from the band’s 1997 reunion album *The Dance* peaked at number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking it as a significant entry in Fleetwood Mac’s discography. This live rendition helped cement the song’s place in popular culture, further highlighted by its certification of gold in October 2009 for surpassing 500,000 copies sold in the United States, with total sales reaching over 2 million copies by 2017.
“Landslide” was written by Nicks during a period of personal and professional uncertainty. Facing a crossroads between returning to school or pursuing a career with guitarist Lindsey Buckingham, Nicks wrote the song while reflecting on her life’s upheavals. This moment of introspection took place in Aspen, Colorado, where she was grappling with the challenges of supporting both herself and Buckingham through various jobs. The song’s imagery of “the Rocky Mountains” and the metaphor of an “avalanche” of change underscore its themes of transformation and self-discovery.
Composed in B-flat major and set in a 2/2 time signature with a slow tempo, “Landslide” combines a country-folk-inspired chord progression with Nicks’ delicate vocals, creating a profound emotional impact. Despite a mixed critical reception at the time of its release—Rolling Stone described Nicks’ performance as somewhat inexperienced—retrospective reviews have been far more appreciative. Publications like The Guardian and Paste have praised “Landslide” as one of Fleetwood Mac’s finest works, recognizing its timeless appeal.
The song’s live performances have become a staple in Fleetwood Mac’s tours and Nicks’ solo shows, highlighting its enduring resonance with audiences. Its various live recordings, including performances from *Live in Boston* (2004), *Crystal Visions – The Very Best of Stevie Nicks* (2007), and *The Soundstage Sessions* (2009), further attest to its lasting popularity. With its evocative lyrics and simple yet profound musical arrangement, “Landslide” continues to be a powerful expression of personal reflection and growth.
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Lyrics
I took my love, I took it down
Climbed a mountain and I turned around
And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills
‘Til the landslide brought me down
Oh, mirror in the sky, what is love?
Can the child within my heart rise above?
Can I sail through the changin’ ocean tides?
Can I handle the seasons of my life?
Mmm
Well, I’ve been ‘fraid of changin’
‘Cause I’ve built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I’m gettin’ older, too
Well, I’ve been ‘fraid of changin’
‘Cause I’ve built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I’m gettin’ older, too
I’m gettin’ older, too
Ah, take my love, take it down
Oh, climb a mountain and turn around
And if you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well, the landslide will bring it down
And if you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well, the landslide will bring it down
Oh, the landslide will bring it down