Lindsey Buckingham Reflects on the Making of Fleetwood Mac’s Tusk: ‘The Drugs Never Really Affected the Music’
As Fleetwood Mac’s radical 12th album, Tusk, celebrates its 45th anniversary this week, Lindsey Buckingham opens up about the legendary recording sessions that produced one of the boldest records in rock history. Following the monumental commercial success of their album Rumours, which sold 40 million copies globally, Buckingham felt compelled to pursue a more experimental and creative direction with Tusk.
Released in 1979, Tusk marked a departure from the mainstream sound of Rumours, embracing a more avant-garde and eclectic approach. Despite selling four million copies, the album was initially seen as a disappointment for the band. However, over the years, Tusk has been re-evaluated as a triumph of artistic expression over commercial pressures.
Buckingham explains that Tusk represented the band’s desire to explore new creative territories while staying true to their artistic vision. Rather than succumbing to external expectations to replicate the success of Rumours, Buckingham led the band in a more experimental and emotionally driven direction.
The recording of Tusk was marked by excess and indulgence, with reports of lavish studio expenses and late-night partying. However, Buckingham maintains that the creative process remained untainted by these distractions. While the album was a departure from their previous sound, incorporating elements of garage rock and new wave influences, it showcased the band’s willingness to take risks and push boundaries.
Reflecting on his solo career and the impact of Tusk on his artistic evolution, Buckingham highlights the importance of prioritising creativity over commercial success. The album’s enduring legacy lies in its fearless approach to music-making and its lasting influence on artists across generations.
Despite initial criticism and commercial challenges, Tusk has emerged as a testament to Fleetwood Mac’s artistic integrity and willingness to defy expectations. As Buckingham continues to follow his creative instincts in his solo work, the spirit of Tusk lives on as a reminder of the power of artistic expression in the face of commercial pressures.