Jan 23 2009
Focus on Stevie Nicks: Rhiannon Rings as Fleetwood Mac Goes Back on Tour
It’s easy to see that Stevie Nicks is a powerful woman. I’ve seen her in concert both as a solo act and with Fleetwood Mac. Her stage presence is extremely different than that of her band mates; she exudes a sense of mystery, but still comes across as approachable. Nicks is a rare, confessional soul: her lyrics tell her story in a clear and reminiscent way. Her costumes catch the wind in a witch-gypsy dance.
Her voice is far from typically feminine–it’s rough and bold. She expressive and open, exploring the vicissitudes of her own life and her career choices right before the hearts of her audience.
Inspired by a novel which included elements of Welsh mythology, Nicks wrote Rhiannon, a haunting and immensely popular tune inspired by a Welsh goddess bearing many similarities to Epona, including an association with horses. Possibly due to a negative perception of paganism, Rhiannon is often thought to be a witch or nymph, though in fact she is a far more regal deity, her name more likely translated as “queen.”
Nicks wrote the song in ten minutes. Just as soothing and spiritual author Paulo Coelho draws parallels to the Greek goddess Athena in The Witch of Portobello, Nicks creates a strong connection between a pagan deity and her own identity by masterfully creating and performing this song.
Fleetwood Mac just announced some Unleashed tour dates, including an April tour date in Philadelphia. Check out their official website for more information.
Fleetwood Mac has been my favorite for years. I would love to see them in concert today just as years ago.