Christine McVie, Fleetwood Mac’s “Songbird,” Dead at 79

Christine McVie, the legendary vocalist and songwriter who lifted Fleetwood Mac with clear-eyed optimism, has died at the age of 79.

McVie “passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th 2022, following a short illness. She was in the company of her family,” according to a statement. “We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally.”

“There are no words to describe our sadness at the passing of Christine McVie,” Fleetwood Mac added in a separate statement. “She was truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure. She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life. We were so lucky to have a life with her. Individually and together, we cherished CHristine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. She will be so very missed.”

Born in Lancashire, England in 1943 as Christine Perfect, McVie came up in the UK’s fabled blues scene of the 1960s and had her first taste of success as part of the band Chicken Shack. In 1968 she married Fleetwood Mac’s John McVie, in 1969 she left Chicken Shack, and in 1971 she joined Fleetwood Mac, where she would elevate the quality of the musicianship while providing some much-needed stability.

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