At 76, Stevie Nicks FINALLY Confesses: “He Was the Love of My Life”

Regarding rock music, few names are as iconic  as Stevie Nicks. From her captivating vocals   in Fleetwood Mac to her solo career,  she's been mesmerizing audiences for   over four decades. Finally, At 76 years old,  she opened up about her long-guarded secret,   confessing that this mysterious man remains  the love of her life despite the passage of   time. Who was he? What was their story?  Join us as we unravel the hidden chapters   of Stevie Nicks’ love life and discover the  man who stole her heart but eluded her grasp. Steve Nicks has experienced  a myriad of relationships,   yet one truly captured her heart above  all others. Before we dive into the   details of this unforgettable romance and its  twists and turns, let’s briefly explore her   past relationships and how they shaped her  journey in love and her illustrious career. FIRST LOVE: LINDSEY BUCKINGHAM. During the Nineteen Sixties, Stevie  Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham,   enrolled as students at Menlo  Atherton High School in California,   forged a musical partnership that profoundly  impacted the rock and roll genre. The inception   of their collaboration led to the formation  of a renowned and tempestuous relationship   characterized by their renowned harmonies in both  vocal performances and personal interactions. During their final year of high school,  they collaborated at a school function,   demonstrating their harmonious voices that  foreshadowed future success. After graduating,   they briefly went their separate ways but  were brought back together when Buckingham   asked Nicks to join his band, Fritz, which  focused on psychedelic rock. This marked   the beginning of their official collaboration,  propelling them into the world of rock music. Abruptly thrust into the vibrant rock scene of  the Nineteen sixties, the experience of performing   alongside esteemed artists such as Jefferson  Airplane and Janis Joplin marked a significant   and challenging initiation for the individuals  in question. Subsequent to the dissolution of the   musical group Fritz during the early Nineteen  seventies, the connection between Nicks and   Buckingham strengthened, progressing beyond  mere romance to encompass a musical partnership   characterized by the earnest expression of their  emotions and dedication within their music. In 1973, the duo presented their  initial collaborative record,   "Buckingham Nicks," which despite not  receiving significant commercial recognition,   established a solid foundation for their future  projects and drew the interest of Mick Fleetwood,   resulting in a transformative opportunity.  Becoming members of Fleetwood Mac in 1975   signified a crucial turning point for the  couple, infusing new energy into the group   while also putting a significant amount of  pressure on their personal relationship. During the production of the innovative  album "Rumours," the stresses began to   surface. The challenges of rapid fame, combined  with the seriousness of their artistic journey,   began to weaken their connection. By the  year 1976, in the midst of working on   "Rumours," Nicks and Buckingham's partnership  reached a critical juncture. Nonetheless,   the sorrow of their split served  as inspiration for the composition   of some of the most legendary  tracks in the genre of rock music. Nicks composed the song "Dreams," which conveys  a sense of melancholy associated with lost love,   whereas Buckingham's response came in the form of  the more intense and raw "Go Your Own Way." The   personal struggles faced by Nicks and Buckingham  were transparent in their music, connecting with   listeners on a global scale and ultimately leading  to the massive success of the album "Rumours." Even though their romantic relationship came to  an end, the musical collaboration between Nicks   and Buckingham endured, although not without  obstacles. The dynamic between them became a   prominent feature of Fleetwood Mac, injecting an  energetic spark into their live shows and bringing   a heightened complexity to their songwriting that  enthralled their audience. Nonetheless, Nicks   continued to pursue the quest of finding true love  but the next experience she had was unexpected. J.D. SOUTHER: A RELATIONSHIP SO BRIEF. After the dramatic ending of  her affair with Buckingham,   Stevie Nicks went on a new phase of fame  and artistic discovery. This transformative   period of her life began when she crossed  paths with J.D. Souther, a wandering yet   influential character in her romantic storyline.  The lives of Stevie Nicks and J.D. Souther first   crossed in the vibrant music community of  Los Angeles in the early Nineteen seventies. Souther, who was already known in the country  rock genre, had worked on numerous chart-topping   songs for the Eagles and was starting to receive  acclaim for his musical talents. After recently   ending her relationship with Lindsey Buckingham  and benefiting from the success of Fleetwood Mac,   Nicks discovered in Souther a kindred  spirit who comprehended the pressures   and joys of living in the spotlight. Their  mutual admiration was quick and deep. Both celebrated for their poetic lyrics and  emotionally intense shows, their bond seemed   to surpass mere physical attraction, reaching a  more profound connection within their creative   souls. - The relationship between Stevie Nicks and  J.D. Souther, although brief, was characterized by   a shared love for music and a deep admiration  for each other's skills. The music industry,   which initially connected them, also posed  considerable challenges for their relationship. During the Nineteen seventies, the music  scene was known for its male-centric nature,   where women were usually assigned supporting roles   or recognized mainly for their  connections to male artists.  Nicks faced difficulties in establishing  herself as a solo artist within this industry,   while simultaneously managing her  romantic involvement with Souther. As she witnessed the special treatment and  reverence given to male artists such as Souther,   which appeared to be less readily  available to their female counterparts,   Nicks, who was swiftly becoming one of  the most impactful women in rock music,   was keenly conscious of this disparity.  Throughout the progression of their relationship,   Nicks persisted in questioning these  norms, utilizing her growing authority   to advocate for not only herself but  also for other women in the field. Strangely, the association with Souther seemed to  strengthen her resolve to gain recognition for her   talent rather than her romantic affiliations.  Even though their relationship was short-lived,   its influence on Nicks' growth as an artist  was significant. Following their split,   Nicks utilized her personal trials as inspiration  for her musical compositions, emphasizing themes   of self-reliance, perseverance, and the  pursuit of acknowledgment in her songwriting. MICK FLEETWOOD: THE PASSIONATE AFFAIR. After ending her brief affair with Souther,   Nicks found herself immersed in what can  be regarded as the most intricate romantic   involvement of her personal past. Her connection  with Mick Fleetwood was crucial and elaborate,   significantly intertwined with the tumultuous and  artistically vibrant environment of Fleetwood Mac. This connection had enduring consequences  on the direction of the band and the wider   realm of rock music. The beginning of their  romantic involvement can be linked back to   the turbulent atmosphere within Fleetwood  Mac during the late Nineteen seventies,   a period characterized by the band's  remarkable achievement with their innovative   album "Rumours," despite the emergence  of underlying interpersonal conflicts. Nicks had recently concluded her lengthy  association with Lindsey Buckingham,   whereas Fleetwood's union with Jenny Boyd was  encountering challenges. The close emotional   connection and innovative collaboration between  Nicks and Fleetwood resulted in a merging of   their work and personal spheres, creating  a passionate and intricate relationship. Their affair happened within the context of  busy tour schedules, extensive time in the   recording studio, and continuous attention from  the media, influencing the artistic output of   Fleetwood Mac as their emotional ups and downs  were reflected in their music, giving it an   authentic and revealing character that struck  a chord with listeners. The relationship also   presented difficulties for the band's dynamics,  as other Fleetwood Mac members had to handle the   emotional fallout of the affair while trying to  uphold professionalism during personal turmoil. This situation was particularly tough  for Buckingham, who had to observe his   ex-girlfriend entering into a romantic  relationship with one of his fellow band   members. Similar to many relationships that  begin in turbulent situations, the romantic   involvement between Nicks and Fleetwood was  brief, yet it did not mark the conclusion of   their association. In order to effectively work  together within the framework of Fleetwood Mac,   the individuals involved had to establish a means  of cohabitation and partnership, transforming   their interpersonal dynamic into a bond defined  by lasting camaraderie and artistic collaboration. While this process of change was marked by  challenges, it highlighted their commitment   to professionalism and their collective  devotion to the band. Nevertheless,   Nicks remained steadfast in her pursuit of  romantic love, resolute in her desire to encounter   a partner who would offer unwavering affection  despite her demanding career and busy schedule. DON HENLEY: FINDING LOVE WITH FAME Coming out of the tumultuous emotional  environment of her relationship with Fleetwood,   Nicks found herself captivated by  another notable individual in the   music industry. In 1977, amidst the  triumph of Fleetwood Mac's impactful   album "Rumours," Stevie Nicks was basking  in a period of significant accomplishments. Don Henley, the drummer and co-lead singer of the  Eagles, was likewise enjoying the height of his   professional career during this period. When these  two influential music personalities crossed paths,   a powerful and instant bond was formed. Both Nicks  and Henley were known for their mesmerizing stage   performances and their capacity to communicate  profound feelings through their songwriting. Their partnership was characterized by a  strong bond founded on a mutual passion   for music and a thorough understanding of the  complexities that come with stardom. However,   the intense connection that united them proved  to be the catalyst for the breakdown of their   association. The requirements of their individual  musical groups, coupled with the challenges   of maintaining a public relationship, heavily  affected their bond. The lifestyle of frequent   travel, the appeal of celebrity status, and their  assertive characteristics formed a volatile mix. THE UNEXPECTED PREGNANCY. Throughout this fast-moving romantic relationship,  Nicks found herself unexpectedly facing a   life-changing situation when she learned that she  was pregnant. This discovery led to a flurry of   emotions and difficult decisions. Both Nicks and  Henley were in important stages of their careers,   with busy tour schedules and commitments to their  respective albums. The idea of starting a family,   while briefly attractive, seemed to conflict  with the paths they were both following. After extensive consideration and  undoubtedly difficult contemplation,   Nicks made the challenging choice to terminate  the pregnancy. This decision, although deeply   personal, would have significant consequences  for both herself and Henley. It marked a pivotal   moment in their relationship, one that would  shape their interactions in the years ahead.   The aftermath of Nicks' decision resulted in the  gradual breakdown of their romantic partnership.   The weight of what could have been, combined  with the fast-paced nature of their careers,   proved to be too much for their  budding love to endure. However,   even as their romantic involvement came to an  end, the impact of their time together would   continue to resonate in their music.  With that said, who did Nicks become   romantically involved with following her  relationship with Henley? Let's find out. JIMMY IOVINE: AFFAIR WITH HER PRODUCER. In the early Nineteen eighties, Stevie Nicks and  Jimmy Iovine developed a unique professional and   personal bond that greatly influenced Nicks'  musical career and the music industry at   large. This collaboration between Nicks,  an accomplished rock artist, and Iovine,   a promising music producer, was particularly  evident on Nicks' first solo album, "Bella Donna." The initial interaction between Nicks and Iovine  was characterized by a noticeable chemistry,   as Iovine's perceptive comprehension and  enhancement of Nicks' unique sound strongly   aligned with her artistic vision and aspirations. Their intensive teamwork in the recording studio   resulted in the transformation of their  professional relationship into a more   intimate connection, especially during the  creation of "Bella Donna," which played a   significant role in the development  of their budding romantic involvement. The extensive time spent collaborating in the  studio, their mutual passion for producing   exceptional music, and the personal aspect of  their creative process all played a role in the   overall connection between them. Nicks discovered  in Iovine not just a skilled producer but also a   like-minded individual who understood her artistic  goals and adeptly brought them to life. As their   bond grew stronger, the intricacy of their  professional partnership became more pronounced. Lovine's influence on Nicks' musical  work became more evident over time,   playing a significant part in shaping the  unique sound that would come to define her   solo artistic trajectory. Standout songs such as  "Edge of Seventeen" and "Stop Draggin' My Heart   Around" exemplified the blending of their  respective skills, with Iovine's skillful   production techniques harmoniously enhancing  Nicks' talent for songwriting and vocals. Despite their successful collaboration in the  creative field, the strength of Nicks and Iovine's   relationship posed obstacles in their personal  lives. Both individuals, known for their strong   personalities and dedication to their work, faced  challenges as the lines between their personal   and professional lives became blurred, leading  to tensions both inside and outside the studio. Moreover, the requirements of their individual  professions; Nicks balancing obligations to   Fleetwood Mac while also pursuing her solo career,  and Iovine quickly establishing himself as a   sought-after producer in the music industry,  contributed to the challenges of maintaining a   romantic relationship and professional partnership  in the competitive world of rock music. Nonetheless, the significant influence of their  connection on Nicks' solo music career should   not be underestimated. Lovine's expertise in  production was instrumental in solidifying   Nicks' individual identity as a musician separate  from her role in Fleetwood Mac. The critical and   commercial success of albums such as "Bella Donna"  and "The Wild Heart," which were both overseen by   Iovine, further cemented Nicks' reputation  as an esteemed figure in the rock genre. Following the dissolution of  their romantic partnership,   Nicks and Iovine successfully managed to maintain  a strong professional relationship based on mutual   respect and a shared passion for music, allowing  them to collaborate effectively despite changes   in their personal dynamics. Following the end of  their romantic relationship, the lasting impact of   Nicks and Iovine on each other's personal  and professional lives remained evident. Iovine went on to establish himself as a prominent  figure in the music industry by co-founding   Interscope Records and playing a crucial role in  the development of Beats Electronics. In contrast,   Nicks continued to strengthen her reputation  as a significant and influential figure in   the rock music genre. Reflecting on this period  in her life, Nicks acknowledged making what she   considered as one of the most significant errors  of her life, which she later came to regret. KIM ANDERSON: A UNION OF INSTINCTS. Stevie Nicks' short-lived union with Kim Anderson  was an unforeseen and complex partnership that   emerged from their shared experiences of loss,  culminating in an important revelation on the   themes of love and grief. The account begins  with Robin Anderson, a close friend of Nicks   since their youth. Robin had consistently  been a steadfast presence in Nicks' life,   serving as a reliable confidante who stood by  her during moments of both success and struggle. In 1982, amidst the height of Nicks' flourishing  individual musical pursuits, an emotional event   unfolded as Robin received a heartbreaking  diagnosis of terminal leukemia whilst pregnant   with her first child. This sorrowful revelation  plunged Nicks into the realization that the   inevitable departure of her beloved confidant  was looming. Witnessing Robin's declining health,  Nicks committed herself wholeheartedly to  providing unwavering assistance to her friend,   resolute in her resolve to remain  by her side during her last moments. Kim Anderson, Robin's spouse, similarly  faced profound sorrow and distress in   navigating this tumultuous period.  As his spouse's health deteriorated,   he sought comfort in the companionship of  Nicks, united by their affection for Robin   and their mutual grief. In the midst of this  emotional upheaval, Robin delivered their son,   Matthew, only days before her passing. The  joy of new life was intertwined with the   sorrow of losing Robin, plunging Nicks and  Anderson into a tumultuous mix of feelings. After Robin's passing, Nicks and Anderson  felt a magnetic pull towards one another,   their common sorrow creating a deep bond. In a  hasty effort to carry out Robin's final request   to look after her son, Nicks and Anderson swiftly  made the decision to marry just three months after   Robin's death. Their sudden wedding was met with  astonishment and concern from family and friends,   who perceived it as a impulsive choice made  in response to grief rather than true love.   Nicks admitted later on that  the marriage was intended to   honor Robin's legacy and offer a  motherly presence for baby Matthew. The truth of their circumstances quickly became  apparent when Nicks, in the peak of her career,   was thrust into the roles of spouse and  stepmother unexpectedly. The requirements   of her musical career clashed with the duties  of her new family, leading to stress and   conflict in their early marriage. Anderson,  still grappling with the death of his wife,   faced challenges in developing a deeper  bond with Nicks beyond their mutual sorrow. As time passed, Nicks and Anderson came to  acknowledge the significance of their mistake   as the initial strong emotions surrounding their  mutual loss diminished, revealing the harsh truth   of their lack of compatibility. Nicks, who  was used to the carefree and exhilarating   aspects of her rock and roll existence, felt  restricted by the obligations of a domestic life,   while Anderson struggled to contend with  the overwhelming demands of Nicks' career. The union ultimately ended following a duration  of only eight months, with the legal dissolution   being completed in 1984, signifying the  conclusion of what Nicks later described as   her unique marital relationship. The separation  had a profound emotional impact on both parties   involved. Over the following years, Nicks  continued to stay in touch with Matthew,   upholding her promise to Robin by  fulfilling the role of his godmother,   offering financial support, and  staying actively involved in his life. JOE WALSH: FINALLY FOUND THE ONE. After experiencing a period of sorrow and a  failed marriage, Stevie Nicks found herself   in what she would later describe as the most  significant romantic partnership in her life.   The relationship between Stevie Nicks and Joe  Walsh represented a crucial and transformative   period in her romantic past, defined  by deep affection, mutual obstacles,   and a conclusion that had enduring effects  on both their personal and musical endeavors. The story of Stevie Nicks and Joe Walsh  began in the late Nineteen seventies,   a period characterized by both musicians reaching  the height of their musical abilities. Nicks   was at the pinnacle of her career with  Fleetwood Mac and her solo endeavors,   while Walsh had already established himself  as a skilled guitarist through his work with   the James Gang and the Eagles. Their  trajectories intersected in the dynamic   music scene of Los Angeles, where their mutual  status as rock icons led to an instant bond. In their first meeting, there was a clear and  undeniable connection between Nicks and Walsh.   They were attracted to each other's creativity,  humor, and mutual understanding of the challenges   of living in the spotlight. Quickly, their  initial attraction developed into a deep   romantic relationship, driven by their common love  for music and strong emotional connection. What   made this relationship stand out for Nicks was the  strong sense of partnership she felt with Walsh. In contrast to previous romantic involvements  plagued by workplace competition or unequal   authority dynamics, the bond between  them was characterized by equality   and mutual support. They shared a deep  understanding of each other as creative   individuals navigating the challenges  of fame. Their collaboration was marked   by a great deal of innovation. Walsh had a  significant influence on Nicks' musical work,   inspiring some of her most emotional  and introspective compositions. His skills on the guitar and understanding of  music enhanced her singing talents and poetic   verses, resulting in partnerships that would be  treasured by audiences for years. In Walsh's view,   Nicks was both an inspiration and a  partner who could keep up with his   innovative energy and grasp the intensity  of his artistic passion. Nevertheless,   the bond between Nicks and Walsh  encountered numerous obstacles. PLAGUED WITH CHALLENGES. Both parties were facing inner struggles,   particularly related to substance abuse. The  extravagant rock and roll lifestyle they were   engulfed in had adverse repercussions on their  well-being, resulting in their relationship   often teetering on the edge of disorder  as they battled addiction. Nevertheless,   their bond intensified amidst these  challenges, perhaps even fueled by them. They did not see each other solely as  romantic partners but also as trusted   confidants and supporters in their individual  struggles. Their shared experiences with the   highs and lows of fame, as well as their mutual  understanding of its challenges, established   a level of closeness that Nicks had rarely  encountered in her previous relationships.   The depth of their feelings was reflected in  their music, with songs written during this   period hinting at the intensity of their emotions  for each other, the pain of their challenges,   and the hope they found in their connection.  These songs offered fans a glimpse into the   personal lives of two of rock's most enigmatic  figures, adding further layers of meaning to   their music. Unfortunately, the very reasons that  brought them together eventually led to their   breakup. Their ongoing struggles with addiction  reached a critical point, leading them to   realize that they needed to separate in order to  prioritize their individual paths to recovery.   While the decision to end their relationship  was heartbreaking for both of them,   it was made out of love and a shared commitment  to each other's well-being. After their breakup,   Nicks went through a period of intense grief  and reflection. She later described the end of   her relationship with Walsh as one of the most  difficult experiences of her life. The pain of   their separation inspired some of her most  emotionally raw and impactful songwriting,   creating tracks that deeply resonated with  fans who had experienced similar losses.   For Walsh, the conclusion of their  relationship had a significant impact   as well. It marked a pivotal moment  in his journey towards sobriety and   self-discovery. The love he shared with  Nicks would remain a meaningful chapter   in his life story, influencing his music  and personal growth for years to come. Despite the end of their affair, the connection  between Nicks and Walsh endured. Over time,   they were able to evolve their love  into a deep and lasting friendship,   demonstrating the genuine care and  respect they had for each other even   after the heartache of their breakup. In later years, both Nicks and Walsh   would look back on their time together  with a mix of fondness and sadness.   For Nicks, Walsh remained "the one" - the great  love of her life who had touched her soul in a   unique way. This sentiment was evident in her  music, where references to their relationship   continued to appear, serving as a testimony to  its enduring impact on her heart and her art. A SURGE IN HER MUSICAL CAREER. Stevie Nicks' professional trajectory  has been intimately associated with   her romantic encounters, acting as a  substantial wellspring of creativity   for numerous of her most impactful and  emotionally resonant compositions. Her   aptitude for transforming the peaks,  valleys, and intricacies of her personal   relationships into lyrical verse has been  a pivotal facet of her artistic expression,   facilitating listeners to resonate with her  individual experiences on a profound scale. What sets Nicks apart as an artist is her aptitude   for translating personal experiences into  narratives that have a broader resonance.   While her music frequently draws from her own  life, it connects with audiences by tapping into   universal human emotions such as love, heartbreak,  and resilience. Nicks' extraordinary skill lies   in her ability to incorporate the intricate  details of her personal life and relationships   into stories and sentiments that feel deeply  relatable to each individual listener.   This talent for turning personal experiences  into art is particularly evident in how Nicks   has revisited and reinterpreted her songs  over time. As she has gained new insights   into her past relationships, her perspectives  on these songs have evolved, giving rise to   fresh meanings and emotional complexities. A piece  inspired by an intense romance might be performed   years later with a sense of wistful yearning  or hard-earned understanding, demonstrating   how Nicks' artistic expression has evolved and  deepened alongside her personal development. Furthermore, Nicks' openness in discussing  the motivations behind her musical creations   has fostered a unique bond with her fans.  Enthusiasts have been able to follow the   storyline of her love life through her  music, sensing a familiarity with the   personal aspects of her experiences. This  candor and genuineness have endeared Nicks   to various cohorts of listeners, who see  her as more than just a prominent figure   in rock music, but as a soul sharing in  the complexities of love and connections. LEGACY. In spite of the conclusion of her various  relationships, Nicks continues to demonstrate   resilience in her music and personal style. The  impact of Nicks' musical works, informed by her   romantic experiences, extends beyond her solo  endeavors and involvement with Fleetwood Mac.   Nicks' songwriting method, characterized by a  focus on emotional sincerity and autobiographical   narrative, has played a considerable role in  shaping the artistic endeavors of numerous   artists. Numerous vocalists and lyricists  have identified Nicks as a muse, particularly   appreciating her bold incorporation of personal  life events into her creative outputs. Throughout   her career, as Nicks has evolved as an artist,  her music has consistently mirrored her shifting   views on love and relationships. Initially drawing  inspiration from intense and passionate romances   of her youth, her more recent works reflect a  deeper and more nuanced comprehension of love.   This evolution in her music parallels Nicks'  own personal growth, moving from a young woman   navigating tumultuous romantic relationships to  a seasoned artist drawing from a wealth of life   experiences. Numerous musicians and artists have  acknowledged Nicks as a significant influence and   a wellspring of creative inspiration. Several  prominent musicians such as Beyoncé, Destiny's   Child, Courtney Love, Michelle Branch, Belinda  Carlisle, The Chicks (formerly Dixie Chicks), Mary   J. Blige, Sheryl Crow, Nadia Ali, Florence Welch,  Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Vanessa Carlton,   Delta Goodrem, and Lorde have been recognized.  Australian singer Darren Hayes has expressed   Stevie Nicks as one of his preferred artists from  his youth, while Eminem's mother Debbie Nelson   mentioned in her book "My Son Marshall, My Son  Eminem" that her son admired the song "Rhiannon".   The musical group, Dixie Chicks, delivered a  performance of the song "Landslide" that proved to   be commercially successful by achieving a position  in the top 10 on various music charts, notably   reaching the number one spot on both the Adult  Contemporary and Country charts. This performance   of "Landslide" earned a BMI Songwriters Award in  2003 for Song of the Year, which recognizes the   composer of a song, regardless of the performer.  Additionally, BMI honored Stevie Nicks with the   35th Robert J. Burton Award for "Most Performed  Country Song of the Year" for "Landslide",   based on its frequent airplay in the United  States during the award eligibility period.   The cover version of "Landslide" was featured on  the Dixie Chicks' commercially successful Monument   album Home, where it gained recognition on various  Billboard charts including Country, Adult Top 40,   Hot 100, and AC. Furthermore, the alternative  rock band The Smashing Pumpkins produced an   unplugged interpretation of the track, which  was included in their 1994 B side compilation   Pisces Iscariot. Numerous other notable cover  versions have been produced, such as the Corrs'   interpretation of "Dreams" and Hole, led by  Courtney Love, performing "Gold DUST Woman". If you enjoyed this video, like and subscribe and  also click the next video shown on your screen.