Reviews (page 10 of 17)
Great
I didn’t realize so many songs I know came from this album
makes me want to skateboard to work while drinking a bottle of cranberry juice
Another album which I don’t need to listen to or if I never heard again it wouldn’t matter as I know it so well. I have been wondering when this album would turn up for me as I’m aware that it sits at the top of the highest rated albums just ahead of Abbey Road and DSOTM which I rate higher than Rumours. So I have the dilemma of should I be sneaky and mark it down or give it its true 5 stars? Easy decision really because I have to agree with the majority that this album is iconic and will be regarded as such centuries from now. So many highlights are on this album but Lindsey Buckingham’s guitar solo on Go Your Own Way is one of the best ever and even better in its lengthened form when played live. 5/5 15/3/25
Come on. The only way it could be better is if it were tusk.
I would put this in the top five albums ever made. We need more than five stars for this one. I can't even pick a favorite song because there are too many. It's a tie betweeen Never Going Back Again, The Chain, and I Don't Want to Know.
I believe the International Bureau of Weights and Measures uses this as the standard for 5-star albums.
still not entirely my thing but also its just undeniable
Amazing as expected
An album for cheaters by cheaters
It was funny, listening through I actually knew most of the songs. Just had no idea it was Fleetwood Mac. I for some reason thought Stevie Nick's sang most of the songs haha.
Rumours is a masterpiece and an easy 5 from me. 3 of the best-ever songwriters at the top of their game and egging each other on. Lindsay is a top tier guitarist, Mick and John are one of the best 'rhythm section's ever, Christine's alto-ish voice and groovy keys stick everything together sonically, and Stevie Nicks is a star from the inside out and top to bottom - voice, writing, image, persona, mystery... this band had EVERYTHING in 1977 and this is the record of that event. Tremendous record.
I think that I like Fleetwood Mac as much as anybody, and then I look at the track list for an album & think gosh maybe I don't like Fleetwood Mac very much. I really dislike Don't Stop and Go Your Own Way. This is a 2.5 star album with two 5 star songs. I think Dreams is the highlight. The Chain is incredible but never as incredible as the first time you hear it. I like Dreams more and more all the time.
The contrarian in me feels really goobie giving 5⭐️ to the highest rated album on the entire list, but it is what it is ya know? Think I bought myself some credit by giving Led Zep IV a two, anyway. Just balancing the books.
American cinema music.
a 10. not even a question. cocaine fueled angst to a backdrop of smooth rock.
beautiful. genius.
AMAZING ALBUM
jees
Even though "most" (most is a weak word) lyrics are about two lovers breaking up I enjoyed the style of the album overall and its lyrics, pretty emotional in some songs. I think a band like this would be great to experience live.
fav
Never been a huge fan, but her voice sounds amazing throughout this album. I didn't realize that like all of their big songs are coming from this album. They definitely have a specific sound and while I can appreciate it, it doesn't always resonate with me. While I didn't love it, I get the appeal. Maybe if I didn't hear the hits as much as I have, I'd appreciate it more. I've gone back and listened to only a few of these album so far, but this is one I'm gonna relisten to.
This is a great album. It isn’t something that I’d put on. However, it is always good on the radio or in a movie.
It’s perfect. One of my favorite albums of all time.
Another one of these I own a physical copy of. This came as a hand me down from my mother-in-law. I know a lot of people hate their mother-in-law, but not me. She’s great. She quietly reads her book. I quietly read mine. Nothing is said unless one of is grabbing another round of beers, and we each try to get through our books before her husband or my wife come over and start yapping about some nonsense. Such a fantastic album that gets a lot of play time at my house. Thanks for the record, Nancy.
"When you're in a band you don't get with your bandmate's girlfriend - past or present....you get a love triangle ya know? Fleetwood Mac situation....Well there was four of them, so more of a love square....mind you, they did make some of their best music back then." "Rumours" "No, that's all true." I'm not sure I've ever actually listened to this full album. Full of bangers....always impressive when every song on a Wikipedia track listing has its own article. No skips...five stars...was ready to spin it again as soon as it ended.
Soi-disant un des plus grands albums de tous les temps. C'était sympa.
This is the site’s highest rated album (as of writing) for good reason. Throw this on shuffle and you’d probably land on a megahit. Even the “deep cuts” have the aura of hit singles. It’s pure perfection in song
I once heard Rumours described as "the most accessible album of all time", and I have to say that I couldn't agree more with that judgement. Like I just can't see how anyone of literally any demographic can dislike this. Plus the bass part in The Chain is so good that it completely trumps any flaws that this album has anyway, I say as if this album even has any flaws to begin with.
5/5 a classic
Don't think I've ever listened to this in one go before, but enjoyed it.
Songbird
Fantastic album, front to back. Easy 5.
hun beste!
delicioso colega
I've listened dozens of times to this album (as everyone else), and I still have the feeling when listening to it that I'm facing a perfect craft of entertainment. I was in the car listening to it and thinking about *what* makes it so obvious that you're listening to a masterpiece. It may be something like 40% good songs + 40% good engineering + 20% musicianship. More musicianship is good, but definitely not needed (look at all those Ramones, Pistols, etc that created historic albums). TL;DR. Amazing sound and top-notch songs. All time farlopa-fueled masterpiece.
One of my favorite albums of all time!
Love it. “Dreams” is one of my all time favorite songs. Great from start to finish.
Haven't given a 5 in a while. This one is just about a flawless album. Also...Stevie Nicks went to Skyline sooooo you gotta support.
really great
Don't remember it. But I know I've listened to it. So I'll go with the mode
I hear fleetwood mac all the time at friends' places... I feel like it's too simple, too clean, too rehearsed, too one dimensional to me...
A great album!
A bit repetitive but I did not hate it
Love it
10/10
Rumours by Fleetwood Mac. True.
Is there anything left to say about Rumours that has not already been said? Most definitely not, but I’ll add my two cents anyway. This album is literally as good as music can get. The composition of the tracks stay catchy, but are also surprisingly complex even when they sound simple. I remember thinking some time ago that I’d learn The Chain on guitar, then looking at the tab and wondering what in holy hell was going on. I genuinely love this album. It shows that all you need to make a great album is a butt load of talent, and exceptional levels of conflict by having the band members all shagging each other.
All amazing
goat
Definitely better than Tusk. All the bangers are here! Competently made, no weird experiments, good instrumentals and vocal work. 'Dreams' was my fave from this album.
Great album overall, 2 songs I didnt really like were Never Going Back Again, and Songbird. Top 3 is Dreams, The Chain, and I Dont Want To Know/Dont Stop. Dont Stop is very upbeat considering a couple songs are a little more of a rhythmic vibe in a sense where I would listen in a groovy setting like I Dont Want To Know. Go On Your Way is also a very upbeat chorus heavy song. 8.2/10
classic for a reason
A long-time favorite.
I particularly enjoyed the very punchy drums in this production. I knew a few of the tracks before, but have otherwise not really heard much Fleetwood Mac before though I know the name Standouts Don't Stop The Chain 4/5
quite simply the greatest album of all time.
Bangers start to finish, so far my favorite album. The story behind it gives it extra spice
What can you say? Absolutely packed with great songs.
For those of you who don’t know much about this band or the making of this album, here’s a quick follow-up. “Rumours” is renowned for its songwriting and the emotional intensity of its tracks. Every single band member was going through personal breakups and dealing with substance abuse and depression. Stevie Nicks (Vocals) and Lindsey Buckingham (Guitar, Vocals) were in a long-term relationship that ended during the making of this album. Christine McVie (Keyboards, Vocals) and John McVie (Bass) were married, but their marriage ended in divorce during the album’s creation. Mick Fleetwood (Drums) was dealing with his own marital issues, as his wife Jenny Boyd was having an affair with his best friend. It’s baffling how they all attracted such negative energy at the same time. Despite the serious tension and emotional pain, they continued to work closely together, writing and performing songs that referenced their personal struggles. This challenging and intense environment allowed them to vent their frustrations and emotions through their music. The result was raw, honest lyrics and music with a timeless quality, strong melodies, and catchy hooks.
Found I'd heard all the album without ever having listened to it in full before. Nice..
No skips. Great album!
Honestly I thought I would enjoy this but I didn’t expect how much. So many a classics and even the ones I didn’t know are classics. Songbird an unexpected delight.
I mean, it’s Rumours.
As it happens, I've never listened to this album from start to finish, even though I have always loved Dreams. It's pretty good. My other favourite track was The Chain.
Absolute magic.
Nothing I can say about this album that hasn’t already said so I won’t bother! Easy 5
What more is there to say about this album. Favourite track is The Chain 5/5
I can see the appeal of this album, but I'm not in love with it. There are a few songs here I'm already familiar with thanks to radio play, though I maybe didn't realize they're all from the same band until now. The songs are well composed and inoffensive to listen to, there's just not much here that speaks to me personally. Which is fine. It's nothing I'll go out of my way to listen to again, but if someone else wanted to put it on to listen to I wouldn't be mad about it.
I'm of a certain age, even if I never owned the album, I know every song. I guess it's a five just by being ubiquitous. Like the Beatles, Stones, Floyd. I mean, I would be happy if I never heard some of these songs ever again. Although "The Chain" is excellent. Yeah, after almost 50 years, enough is enough. I wonder if the really early Fleetwood Mac stuff is on this list. The Rezillo cover of FM's "Somebody's Gonna Get Their Head Kicked In Tonight" is great stuff.
Following Ringo Starr and Nick Mason, Mick Fleetwood and Rumours complete my favorite trifecta of the classic storyline where the majority of a band is imploding in bitter arguments while the drummer just sits happily behind the kit and keeps on pounding obliviously. Also, probably doing obscene amount of drugs.
If you’re familiar with story of Rumours (and let’s face it, you are), then it’s obvious that the fact that I’m able to listen to it today is a miracle - no less. Easiest 5 I’ve awarded an album so far.
It's hard to argue with a classic.
"The band would come in at 7 at night, have a big feast, party till 1 or 2 in the morning, and then when they were so whacked-out they couldn't do anything, they'd start recording" Devastating relationship turmoil, heavy drugs, and a fuck ton of talent gave us all one of the best pieces of music. Ever.
Much has been said about this album, but what stands out to me is how well it has aged. Songs like Dreams feel truly timeless, resonating with generation after generation. No matter how many times I listen, I never seem to tire of it.
Close to perfection. It was clear there was a LOT happening in this band when this came out and almost every song showcases the emotional energy that resulted. In addition to the great lyrics and brilliant music, it’s just beautiful to listen to. It was a 5 when it was new. It’ll be a 5 forever.
Not even a fan and I knew every song on this album. A band at the top of their game. A classic
One of the easiest 5 stars I'll give. Yeah, it's cliche at this point to say how great this album is, but, you know what? It is great, and it deserves all the praise it gets and to be the highest rated album on this site.
A master class of a pop music album.
Some of these are alright. Some even pretty good. I'm just a hater of the way people sing in 1900's rock. Never going back again best song
Hands down one of my favorite albums of all time and I would contend it’s in the running for best album of all time. It delivers on every front. Each song is unique, as is every member of the band, and while they each shine through in their own ways, they also have a way of knowing how and when to let someone else take the stage. The lore of the notorious relationship of Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham is obviously critical to this album’s success, but I think that’s also because, like most great art, it’s not just about aesthetic or technique. The perspective that drives the artist is what vitalizes their work into something transcendent. Christine and John McVie were going through it as well while Stevie and Lindsey want nothing more than to tear each other apart. Mick Fleetwood just trying to keep the band together. I fully count Silver Springs as part of Rumours even though it was not on the original cut. Super Deluxe version all the way. Go Your Own Way is absolute perfection. I have a rule where I play it back to back every time, unless I’m doing a strict purist album run like today. It’s actually a song I have listened to for hours straight when I want inspiration or when I fucking lock in on something. If I am ever dying just punk this straight into my veins. The Chain has one of the most boss bass line breakdowns ever. Pure rock. Lindsey’s finger picking in Never Going Back again is insane. I will learn it in full some day but he’s basically rocking two separate time signatures with his thumb vs his other fingers that is unusually difficult for hand picking in general. If you all didn’t listen to Silver Springs as the 12th and final sign to this album please reward yourself with maybe the greatest vocal crescendo you’ll ever hear. She fucking hates that man lol. The lyrics alone would make that song goated but her performance is just mystical. Sing it out at the top of your lungs and tell me that is not the most accurate encapsulation of romantic torment you’ve ever felt. Songbird was Blair and I’s first dance at our wedding. We considered every song on this album one by one and we had a case for each, but for obvious reasons we wanted one of the more hopeful songs. 5/5. 100/100. Flawless in every way. Iv’e listened to it probably once a month for the last 10 years. I have my mother’s vinyl copy and I consider it a family heirloom.
ooooo this was tough. on the surface, I was like, this is an easy five stars. I love listening to Rumours. It's an album that I will throw on myself constantly and enjoy listening to. but analyzing it... I think that the last four tracks are weaker than how the album starts out. They aren't bad, but they don't have the same punch as 'Second Hand News', 'Don't Stop' or 'Go Your Own Way'. I was thinking about giving this album a four stars due to the final almost 1/3 of the album, but even this morning writing this review I can't in good conscious give this album anything less than a five. I went and listened to those four songs again, and actually super enjoyed this this morning in their own right. in short, I waffled on the score for no reason. this album is amazing. long live Rumours.
I did not realize how many amazing songs were on this single album. And even the songs that I had never heard before were really impressive and enjoyable. Might be the easiest 5-star on the list so far.
I’ve started and stopped writing this review so many times. I’ve just loved this album for so long I don’t know anything new to say. I love it to bottom. All the singles are obviously amazing but even the just album tracks stand on their own. The chain, Songbird, and never going back again are some of my all time favorites. Just love it all.
Awesome album. This is one of the highest rated albums on the list. It is 100% warranted. Amazing. Completely deserving of 5 stars.
One of my favorite college memories is 4/20 my first year while I was living with one of my best friends, Josiah. Somehow I had convinced him to eat a homemade weed cookie (thank you, Marie) and while we were waiting for it to kick in we went and got Cook Out. When we got back I grabbed my Rumours vinyl and cranked up my shitty speakers. If not for what happened after, Josiah would have told you that was the best Cook Out experience he’s ever had. Ranch wraps taste better when you can’t feel your body and the drop on The Chain hits. Unfortunately, a few hours later I convinced him to rip my tiny bong. After facing a rip that looked like cotton balls had been stuffed in the glass, Josiah spent the next hour by the toilet, having his worst Cook Out experience. Overzealous, I know, but my naivety and state of mind had me thinking this newbie could embrace the holiday like a veteran. While tending to my fallen comrade, I figured I might as well keep the party going. So I flipped the record back over to Side A and finished off the rest of the pack in the bong. Dancing to Dreams as I brought him another glass of water. There are seven songs on this album that I can listen to at any moment, and a couple that are absolute all-timers. Fleetwood Mac are amazing, and this is by far their best work. An easy five stars.
There are some albums that you always hear about being the greatest of all time. It's always at the top of lists and never has a negative review. It's been hyped up your whole life. You think to yourself that surely it can't be that good. Then you give it a listen. The big radio hits are 5/5. The instrumentation is 5/5. The lyrics are 5/5. The backstory of how the album is made is 5/5. This album by itself is damn near perfect, and then you get the cherry on top of all the drama happening behind the scenes. You can get lost into everything about this record. This album really does live up to the hype.
Anfangs habe ich drei Sterne gegeben, aber je länger ich nachdenke desto besser ist das Album. Vielleicht ist es, weil ich weiß, dass es das bestbewertete Album dieser Seite ist
Mush listen
Still remember where I was the first time I heard this album and it hit me. One of my all time tops
Yep, perfect lovely thank you :)
Stonker of an album, one of my faves and everyone elses too by the looks of it! It makes sense that this album is the top rated of all 1001, it's just great music and I think it appeals to any person of any age. Every song is a banger, there's no filler and with all the crazy stuff happening when they made this album, I think it came out exceptionally well. Fav song: Dreams
You can see why this is the highest rated album on the list
Ya lo conocía
Overall, a great album. I've listened to it before and definitely have my favourites. Great sound. Beautiful remaster.
This album is very overrated in my opinion, but it's still okay with some good songs.
Could double as Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits album. Pretty much every song is practically a household name.
7/10
Great album with tons of hits!
2/10/25. All-time album for me. Every song is a 10 or nearly a 10, and love the versatility.
Perfect 👌🏻
Me ha gustado mucho, el álbum no se hace largo ni ninguna canción se hace pesada. Personalmente me falta algo para darle las 5 estrellas, pero sin duda es de los mejores álbumes de momento. Canción destacada: The Chain
Wouldn't have called myself a Fleetwood Mac fan but there's too many good songs on here to not give it a 5
Foundational album! While I really enjoy a few of the songs, I feel like the cult of the album stems from the lore and drama of the group. It's definitively a good album, but for me, not one of my go to albums.
One of the best albums ever.
Hard to find fault with a classic like this but I'll still say that for my ears, it sounded a bit bland. Now don't get me wrong, it's actually an almost perfect pop/rock record with catchy melodies and feel good song writing. It's just that there is nothing interesting or experimental here. If I grew up in the 70s, it would've been a great nostalgia trip for me listening to it now. But for my modern sensibilities, it's just a good pop album. Nothing more. Loved the songs "Dreams", "Go Your Own Way", "The Chain", "Gold Dust Woman"(the heaviest song of the record).
This album is an all timer. Every song is good. Production is great. It never misses.
good one
As a young punk I spent so much time "hating" this album while secretly loving almost everything on it. It's equal parts joyful, angry, wistful, sad and totally cocaine-fueled. The Lindsay Buckingham and Christine McVie songs alone are worth the price of admission. The only thing that makes this album a little less perfect is knowing that Silver Springs could've been on this LP.
Fleetwood Mac's *Rumours* (1977) is a landmark album that transcends its era, blending raw emotional storytelling with polished production. Born from personal turmoil and creative friction, it remains a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its lyrical honesty, genre-defying sound, and enduring influence. Below is a detailed analysis of its lyrical depth, musicality, production, themes, and legacy, alongside its strengths and limitations. --- ## Lyrical Content: Emotional Catharsis and Relatable Turmoil The lyrics on *Rumours* are a candid reflection of the band’s fractured relationships. Written during breakups—Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham’s split, Christine and John McVie’s divorce, and Mick Fleetwood’s marital struggles—the album channels anguish, hope, and resignation. - **Personal vs. Universal**: Tracks like Buckingham’s bitter “Go Your Own Way” (“Loving you isn’t the right thing to do”) contrast with Nicks’ introspective “Dreams” (“Players only love you when they’re playing”), offering dual perspectives on their breakup[2][4]. Christine McVie’s “Don’t Stop” injects optimism, while “Songbird” serves as a fragile, universal ode to love[4]. - **Collaborative Vulnerability**: “The Chain,” the sole song co-written by all members, symbolizes their forced unity: “Chain keep us together”[6]. This tension between individuality and collective survival underscores the album’s lyrical theme of resilience amid chaos[4]. --- ## Musical Composition: Genre Fusion and Harmonic Brilliance *Rumours* melds rock, pop, and folk into a cohesive yet diverse sound, elevated by the band’s interplay. - **Vocal Harmonies**: The trio of Nicks, Buckingham, and Christine McVie creates lush layers, particularly in “Dreams” and “Gold Dust Woman,” where ethereal vocals contrast with gritty instrumentation[1][3]. - **Instrumental Mastery**: Buckingham’s guitar work oscillates between fiery riffs (“Go Your Own Way”) and delicate fingerpicking (“Never Going Back Again”). Mick Fleetwood’s percussive ingenuity—like the iconic tom-tom intro of “The Chain”—anchors the album’s rhythmic complexity[1][6]. - **Genre Fluidity**: From the folk-rock sway of “Dreams” to the pop-rock energy of “You Make Loving Fun,” the album avoids stylistic stagnation, appealing to broad audiences[1][3]. --- ## Production: Polished Chaos The recording process was fraught with tension, yet producers Ken Caillat and Richard Dashut crafted a sonically pristine album. - **Studio Alchemy**: Despite recording in multiple studios (including Criteria Studios in Miami), the team achieved a unified sound. Subtle touches—like the reverb on Nicks’ vocals in “Gold Dust Woman” or the layered harmonies in “Second Hand News”—enhance emotional resonance[1][4]. - **Emotional Authenticity**: The band’s turmoil seeped into sessions, resulting in raw performances. Christine McVie’s Wurlitzer electric piano on “Don’t Stop” and Buckingham’s aggressive strumming on “Go Your Own Way” capture unfiltered emotion[4][6]. --- ## Themes: Love, Loss, and Resilience *Rumours* explores the duality of human connection—its fragility and tenacity. - **Heartbreak and Healing**: The album’s narrative arc moves from anger (“Go Your Own Way”) to acceptance (“Don’t Stop”), mirroring the band’s journey[2][4]. - **Universal Resonance**: While rooted in personal drama, themes of betrayal, longing, and hope resonate universally. Tracks like “Songbird” and “Dreams” feel timeless, transcending their 1970s origins[3][5]. --- ## Influence: Shaping Modern Music *Rumours* redefined album-oriented rock and inspired generations of artists. - **Artistic Legacy**: Its blend of emotional transparency and studio polish influenced acts like Lorde, The Cranberries, and Tori Amos[5]. The 1998 tribute album *Legacy* featured covers by Matchbox 20 and Jewel, underscoring its cross-generational appeal[4]. - **Commercial and Cultural Impact**: With over 40 million copies sold, *Rumours* demonstrated that deeply personal art could achieve mass success. Its Grammy win for Album of the Year (1978) and induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame (2003) cement its status[4][5]. --- ## Pros and Cons | **Pros** | **Cons** | |-------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------| | **Songwriting Depth**: Raw, relatable lyrics elevate personal stories into universal anthems[1][3]. | **Emotional Weight**: The album’s intensity may overwhelm casual listeners[1]. | | **Production Excellence**: Seamless blending of rock, pop, and folk with pristine sound quality[1][4]. | **Track Balance**: Lesser-known songs like “Oh Daddy” are overshadowed by hits[4][6]. | | **Vocal and Instrumental Synergy**: Buckingham’s guitar, Fleetwood’s drums, and trio harmonies create a rich sonic tapestry[1][6]. | **Dated Elements**: Some 1970s production choices (e.g., synth tones) feel nostalgic but not timeless[4]. | | **Cultural Longevity**: Continues to influence modern music and attract new listeners[5]. | | --- ## Conclusion *Rumours* is a masterclass in transforming personal strife into art. Its lyrical candor, genre-spanning sound, and meticulous production have solidified its place as one of the greatest albums ever recorded. While its emotional rawness and era-specific quirks may not appeal to all, the album’s strengths—universal storytelling, musical innovation, and cultural staying power—far outweigh its minor flaws. Over four decades later, *Rumours* remains a testament to the redemptive power of music, proving that even discord can create harmony.
If my car had a cassette deck this would be in it. These are also the truck nuts i'd get for my car. A good counterpoint for the argument against dating coworkers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kR3SLhcbcxo You think there was ever a discussion about calling this Rumors instead?
Yep
Banger from front to back. Also, Christine McVie is the George Harrison of Fleetwood Mac. If I had to pick a favorite song on this album (because they're all so good), it'd be "Songbird."
Popular for a reason
ок
Eines der besten Fleetwood Mac Alben. Immer wieder schön zu hören. 5/5
hit... after hit... after hit... after, not songbird... after hit
Pop perfection
One of my favourites. The first cassette that went into my first car. No skips, it’s an absolute masterpiece.
mind blowing
meh, overplayed
pretty impressive for an album recorded while half the band was involved in relationship drama. all things considered. 4/5
I can now understand why Rumours is the highest rated album on the list. It begins with the superb production. You can hear the bass strings as clearly as if they were being struck next to you. Then you have this pretty unique mix of rock, singer-songwriter, pop and folk. Plus, the members give me likeable hippie vibes. Thematically, it's all about breakups. Obvious, if you read a bit about the making of the album. But approached from different angles and the songs are also distinct musically and in terms of content without breaking cohesion. There is always the subliminal struggle between vulnerability and emotional outbursts, softness and hardness. You can clearly hear that all the members have poured their hearts into this. Even though I've had more fun with other albums, Rumours is the most well-rounded one I've come across so far.
Rumors is an album I am very familiar with- I've probably listened to it in full about 5-6 times. Heralded as one of the best albums of all time, some of which is attributed to its mystique. Outside of all the rumors (pun intended) surrounding its production, the album still produces a huge string of hits, including some of the best representations of 70s rock (Dreams, Go Your Own Way, The Chain). Still, listening to the original album and not the delux edition, there are still some flaws. One is that Songbird feels out of place in the album, and doesnt add much to the overall presentation. The more obvious flaw is the decision to leave Silver Springs off the album, which really is a perfect final song that is sorely missing from the original recording. Overall- hard to deny the power this album has and the variety of sound that resulted in so many unique top-10 hits. That combined with its lore easily give this one a 5.
The hits of this album are a 4, maybe even a 5. Songs like Dreams, The Chain, Go Your Own Way (shoutout to that amazing guitar solo at the end of it. I liked the ending track too. The rest of the songs on the album let them down. Too mellow, too soft, too uneventful. Not enough passion in the "filler" songs. Is it a good album? At times yes, but not consistently Does it deserve to be the highest rated album on this website? Absolutely not
The album before this is better, but this is still solid. Great tracks, but peters out a bit on the second side
goat, no more to say
It was good I mean, it’s quintessential and a classic for a reason. Very folksy. I definitely feel a lot of emotions when listening to this album. I feel like it’s very of the times.
**An Appreciation of *Rumours* by Fleetwood Mac** Few albums in rock history capture raw emotion, impeccable craftsmanship, and timeless appeal quite like *Rumours* by Fleetwood Mac. Released in 1977, this masterpiece is more than just a collection of songs—it’s an intimate portrait of a band in turmoil, turning personal heartbreak into musical gold. At the time of recording, Fleetwood Mac was a band in crisis. The five members—Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, John McVie, and Mick Fleetwood—were tangled in a web of romantic breakups, betrayals, and emotional turbulence. Rather than tearing them apart, these tensions fueled some of the most passionate and affecting songs ever put to tape. The result? An album that resonates just as deeply today as it did nearly five decades ago. From the moment *Rumours* begins with “Second Hand News,” Lindsey Buckingham’s urgent, rhythmic strumming sets the tone: this is an album brimming with both heartache and resilience. Stevie Nicks’ ethereal “Dreams” follows, a song that remains the band’s only No. 1 hit in the U.S., its hypnotic groove and poignant lyrics capturing the ache of love lost. Christine McVie’s “Don’t Stop” provides a hopeful contrast, while “Go Your Own Way” seethes with Buckingham’s frustration, turning heartbreak into anthemic defiance. But *Rumours* isn’t just about breakups—it’s about survival, healing, and the messy, beautiful complexity of human relationships. Christine McVie’s “Songbird” is a tender lullaby of devotion, while “The Chain” is the band’s most powerful declaration of unity, its thunderous bassline and driving beat symbolizing an unbreakable bond, despite the personal wreckage. What makes *Rumours* so enduring is its universality. Everyone has experienced love, loss, and the bittersweet pain of moving on. Fleetwood Mac took their most vulnerable moments and turned them into songs that feel personal to every listener. Decades later, its harmonies still soar, its melodies still captivate, and its emotional honesty still stings. Few albums define an era while remaining timeless. *Rumours* does just that—it’s not just a classic, it’s a cornerstone of rock music.
There's not a lot to be said about this album that hasn't been discussed already. It's amazing to the point in which everybody loves it, but there's not a lot of people calling it overrated. Just a 10/10.
Incredible album. I didn't realize how every song on it was an absolute banger. 10/10
So many hits. The songs I did not know were pleasant some more mellow but enjoyed thoroughly.
Classic
listened 1/28/25 on commute to smithfield
One of best compilations ever
One of my all-time favourite albums. Catchy pop songs with melancholic moments.
Today is Fleetwood Mac day! I love this album. It pre-dates my generation, but it's timeless and universal. One of the few albums that is perfection - not a bad track to speak of. Beyond that, I can't put my finger on what it is about this album. I don't think the music is particularly deep, resonant, or culturally significant, nor is it musically complex or unique. I think that speaks to how special it is as something that continues to pull people in generations later.
somewhat fondly nostalgic
Not a lot I can really offer... rangey, feelsy, comfy but also not... just really good music.♥️
Perhaps thee album of all time, but Lindsey Buckingham is not seeing heaven for taking Silver Springs off
Second Hand News - A lead Lindsey track. Thank you. Really sounds like a solo / tango in the night LB. Im surprised they put this as the first one. But, good for you. Maybe we set up Linds just to knock him down the rest of the album. Dreams - Way to bring us back down to earth Stevie. We're knocking him right down. No Christine yet but a shit ton of John McVie
"If you don't love me now, you will never love me again" Yeah, just like that.
[6/10] Trying not to be a heretic but it’s just not for me
****A good album, easy listening, versatile tracks
I know. I know. But it’s what I felt.
My wife pretty much only listens to this album and Dolly Parton’s hits when she drives, so I’m a little tapped out on it, but it’s tough to beat and is a good one to get stuck with if you have to. I’m still surprised Second Hand News doesn’t loom more largely in pop music culture - it’s a great way to kick off the album!
A perfect album - it's a pity they couldn't repeat the trick.
De verdad que no quería, pero no me queda más remedio que subirme al carro de las cinco estrellas. Este es el álbum mejor valorado de toda la lista, y estaba deseando que me tocara escucharlo. Después de haberlo escuchado dos veces, su fama es más que merecida. Lo tiene todo: musicalmente excelente, una historia morbosa (todos los miembros estaban en proceso de separación con sus parejas, la mayoría dentro del mismo grupo), fácil de escuchar pero muy técnico a la vez. Las armonías vocales son una locura, es uno de esos álbumes que te pueden teletransportar a una época, aunque no la hayas vivido. El álbum está lleno de hits, pero los temas menos conocidos también son buenísimos. En concreto, "I Don't Want to Know" me ha encantado. Aunque quizá me esté dejando llevar por la presión grupal y, si no hubiera sabido de su puntuación global, le hubiera dado un 4. Pero no le voy a dar más vueltas.
Yeah, it's perfectly fine, whatever.
Really good. Incredibly tight and catchy. Mentioned it to my mum and she got angry. I imagine if you were around at the time you would have got sick to death of hearing this. I don’t want to be a “I was born in le wrong generation xd” idiot but this is objectively great stuff
Honestly one of the greatest albums
Absolutely love this album - so much so that Landslide was played at my daughter's funeral... And the other tracks still manage to lift my spirits, which they have done since I was listening to Rumours at school.
Not my thing.
Tiene buenos temas, algunos muy clásicos. Musica que pondría de fondo pero no para escuchar de forma analítica o centrada.
Magical album and I can see why it stays in people’s hearts after so many years. For me I can pick songs out that I love but it’s not a non stop album. Production is superb on every song with beautiful Melodie’s throughout. Each member plays their part.
Definitively some hits here! That 70's groove.
this had gotta be close to 10/10
No private session used for Spotify. There are a lot of classics on this album and it's a nice variety of styles of songs where the talented song writers of the band were free to showcase their own song writing ability. Then there is the whole history and background of the band and this album and the added flavor of knowing what some of the songs are really about.
Fantastic album, but I already knew that.
Obviously a great album
Classic
At first listen, really great, nothing more that I can say
5/5
For those of you who don’t know much about this band or the making of this album, here’s a quick follow-up. “Rumours” is renowned for its songwriting and the emotional intensity of its tracks. Every single band member was going through personal breakups and dealing with substance abuse and depression. Stevie Nicks (Vocals) and Lindsey Buckingham (Guitar, Vocals) were in a long-term relationship that ended during the making of this album. Christine McVie (Keyboards, Vocals) and John McVie (Bass) were married, but their marriage ended in divorce during the album’s creation. Mick Fleetwood (Drums) was dealing with his own marital issues, as his wife Jenny Boyd was having an affair with his best friend. It’s baffling how they all attracted such negative energy at the same time. Despite the serious tension and emotional pain, they continued to work closely together, writing and performing songs that referenced their personal struggles. This challenging and intense environment allowed them to vent their frustrations and emotions through their music. The result was raw, honest lyrics and music with a timeless quality, strong melodies, and catchy hooks.
A finely crafted album! Some of my favorite Fleetwood Mac songs, but also a few that are just good. Always hard for me to commit to the whole numbers on these ratings. Tbh, I wanted to rate the album with 3.8 stars, considering the entire thing. However since there are some real gems on this one let’s do a full 4 out of 5. To be fair, some of these songs alone would rate above 5, if that makes any sense. Highlights: `Dreams` , `Go Your Own Way` , `The Chain` , `Oh Daddy` , `Gold Dust Woman` Skippable: `Songbird` 1. Second Hand News - 2:56 starting off the record with a really cool vibe, the percussive plucking right in your face is super interesting, contrasting with the hard panned guitars, backing vocals and super wide drums, giving the lead vocals a lot of movement and making the song super fun to listen to. the layering was masterfully done, the production is on point, the lyrics are very good and I think the only thing I don’t like on the entire arrangement is the “bam bamm bammbca baam bammm bam”, but that could be just me. 2. Dreams - 4:17 fat bass tone, swinging keys, dynamic swelling guitars, shiny acoustic guitar, balanced mix, wide backing vocals. delightful and easy to listen. This song makes me think that Dawes actually took a lot of inspiration to their sound from Fleetwood Mac. 3. Never Going Back Again - 2:14 acoustic guitars are a bit too loud to my taste, but I get that this was intentional. the issue for me is that the vocals are frequently overpowered by the guitars (except for when they decrease in dynamic). short song with just a few lines of lyrics, but well delivered nonetheless. I feel like the backing vocal swells could have appeared a bit more often, and after their first I was left longing for more. maybe that’s the idea, I mean, of never going back again 4. Don't Stop - 3:13 Over the years I’ve grown used to complex chord progressions and odd time signatures, a lot of variation and all things prog/jazz/fusion, and because of that i get really bored with repetitiveness or lack of variation. But at the same time there’s a part of me that still enjoys a when a song is so solid that it does exactly what it should, no more, no less. It’s not so frequent that a band manages to do just that, and get away with the beauty of a well made simple thing. This is a great example of that, and after 3 minutes of a galloping groove with steady beat and synced bass line you end up surprised the song ended, never growing tired of it. That being said, the drums sound great, excellent mix, crystal clear vocals with uplifting melodies, really nice sounding piano and guitars (specially the super rad guitar solo, that does just what the song needed). To me, it could be only be improved by enhancing the dynamic contour, leaving a bit more room to grow on that last chorus, right before the tag. 5. Go Your Own Way - 3:43 another great song with great mixing, amazing bass line, well balanced guitar tones (each of them painting just the necessary colors to make the whole picture cohesive and never overwhelming in any way). the organ on the chorus could be slightly louder, just to cut a bit more through the mix, not getting so shadowed by the guitars, apart from that everything is spot on for my taste. I love the drum sound on this. I think the percussion shaker is a bit too loud, and kinda distracting. lead guitars are pure fire on this, i’d love to geek out on what gear was used for these tones. 6. Songbird - 3:20 a lot of albums have this track that serves a similar purpose as a short break in the middle of a concert, like stopping to take a breather in the mid of hike or something like that, taking a slow pace and aiming somewhere different, or at least to provide some contrast through an alternative perspective. while I’m totally fine with this formula, i don’t think it worked for this song, as it is overly sentimental, too sugary and sappy. sure, the piano and mellow vocals sound pretty and all, but make not mistake, this is no Carpenters. 7. The Chain - 4:29 I love this song, I don’t think I have anything bad to say about it. solid arrangement, very immersive and incredibly interesting. It’s so dynamic that it takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, with sublime build-ups that let you float just long enough before grabbing you back by the collar and dragging you through it all once more. You are left anxiously longing for closure but the song delays it until the very end, never actually giving it to you clearly, fading out to uncertainty and leaving you mesmerized instead. the climax is superb and might be just the cherry on top. give me chills every time — one of my favorite tracks by them for sure. 8. You Make Loving Fun - 3:33 groovy, funky, snappy, the kind of song that forces you to move, even if just by nodding your head to the rhythm or tapping your foot. the backing vocal swells finally returned, paired with face-melting guitar leads. the keys and rhythm guitars are super warm, the midrange on the bass guitar is velvety and suits the tonal quality of the track just perfectly. the drums are a bit minimalistic, but they do serve the song just as it requires. finally I can say I am satisfied with the percussion, not being too loud nor too silent. the vocals sound great but I feel like the statement that “you make loving fun” is not reflected by the way the lyrics are sung, at least in my opinion, almost as if there was a bit of hesitation on the tone. the backing vocals for instance sound a lot more amused in comparison. 9. I Don't Want to Know - 3:16 the constant, never changing, incessant snare on 2 and 4 on this one makes it a bit repetitive for me, and what’s weird is that the guitars are super groovy, with syncopated accents and a very interesting stereo image that makes the rhythm almost an illusion that revolves around you and put you face to face with the catchy melodies sung by the vocals, in perfect synchrony. percussion once again as loud or louder than the drums, in general, if it wasn’t for the guitar solo it would be very distracting. the bass sits nicely on this one and the track would be a lot better in my opinion if the drums were a bit more creative than what was played here. 10. Oh Daddy - 3:56 love the minimalistic intro, and when that low note on that piano is thunderously smashed at the very center you instantly get the dark vibe that’s about to hit you, and no amount of guitar layers, pretty harmonics, counter-melodies, harmonies or backing vocals will ever let your attention wander, like a dim light in the very center of a dark road—but during a freaking storm. in this analogy, the drums are the road, the bass the curves, the vocal is the light, and everything else is rain, wind, and darkness. the tempestuous nature of this song makes me feel like the lyrics might reflect the turbulent relationships between the band members, as the many conflicts they endured are no secret. 11. Gold Dust Woman - 4:55 truly impressive instrumentation. yet another production masterfully executed, with impeccable mix and remarkable arrangement. vocals deliver a such a great performance that you’re left completely amazed. what a journey. I love when a record manages to start off just right and then at the very end delivers a knockout blow that takes you to another dimension. I don’t think they could have chosen a better way to end this album. there are so many layers and so much stuff going on, and yet everything is incredibly clear and well balanced. you can’t help but feel surrounded by all of these sounds, like standing in the eye of a hurricane.
Se eu fosse resumir o disco em uma palavra seria: corações sofridos. Chega a ser difícil ser crítico com um álbum que você já gosta. Talvez ter escutado ele com paciência me fez ter um olhar diferente pra ele, aumentando ainda mais o prazer que tinha, apesar dos triângulos amorosos e outras formas geométricas que rondaram a banda antes e durante a produção. O legal que o começo do álbum com "Second Hand News" nem te dá tempo de respirar. É tipo: levanta e vai. Pra mim, um dos principais pontos altos do álbum está na música "Dreams", porque há uma simplicidade musical de basicamente duas notas (sendo quebrada apenas em um pequeno interlúdio instrumental), e como a música vai crescendo com ela. Na sequência, "Never Going Back" foi a que menos me empolgou, mas ainda tem um charme muito único fazendo um dueto de voz e violão. "Don't Stop" já traz um ritmo que já faz a cabeça balançar junto, com destaque enorme pro piano. No meio de tantas músicas de sofrência, essa é um dos alívios emocionais do álbum. "Go Your Own Way" eu tenho um apego muito grande porque foi a primeira música consciente que tive sobre a banda em si. É curioso pensar que um ritmo tão animado (e tão gostoso de dirigir em uma rodovia) tenha uma letra não tão positiva. A alternância entre maior e menor durante estrofe e refrão é um charme à parte, sem contar o destaque na guitarra da metade pro final da música. Já com "Songbird" temos mais uma baladinha sem muitos instrumentos, sendo piano, voz e violão. Quase semelhantemente a "Don't Stop", é uma música que traz paz em meio toda confusão. Outro grande momento do álbum chega em "The Chain". Que construção! A música começa marcando, cresce, depois volta, tem um interlúdio instrumental com o baixo SENSACIONAL e termina 'full gas'. Também é um momento onde vemos praticamente todos os integrantes da banda cantando e trazendo um arranjo vocal maravilhoso. A música até tenta trazer um ar mais soturno, por conta da letra, mas alguns acordes em tom maior fazem essa quebra de expectativa. "You Make Loving Fun" já traz um ar bem divertido, como sugere o título, principalmente com a presença dos sintetizadores e um baixo bem 'estralado' na equalização. É uma música bem dançante, algo que poderia se assemelhar com a letra de um casal que está tentando se reconquistar. Trazendo um ar mais interiorano, "I Don't Want to Know", também bem dançante, muitas palmas como instrumental, sendo um contraste bem curioso com a tristeza da letra. Inclusive isso foi algo que percebi em grande parte das músicas. "Oh Daddy", já quase no final do disco, é a primeira música verdadeiramente melancólica em sua execução. Talvez por trazer um ar mais pesado sobre dependência emocional. Consigo até trazer um paralelo dessa dependência com a batida de uma nota no piano que ressoa (que foi um detalhe CHARMOSÍSSIMO na execução). O baixo aqui sendo bem presente e preenchendo os intervalos. Puro suco de música boa! E por fim chegamos a "Gold Dust Woman", onde achei bem curiosa a presença maior do 'cowbell' com o bumbo marcando ritmo. Mais uma vez o conjunto vocal aqui faz seu nome! Achei uma ótima escolha para encerrar o álbum, fazendo uma brincadeira (outra vez) com tons maiores e menores dentro de uma mesma música, trazendo a dualidade de sentimentos que percorrem o álbum todo. Como pode uma história tão conturbada produzir um álbum tão coeso do início ao fim? Colocar esse disco na estrada é diversão de emoções do início ao fim. Claro, não se deixe levar pelas letras de sofrência e seja feliz. Agora, se você quer curtir uma deprê por conta de um relacionado que deu errado, talvez aqui você encontre essa montanha-russa de expressões sobre. Favoritíssimas: "Dreams", "Don't Stop", "Go Your Own Way", "The Chain", "Oh, Daddy" Só pularia "Never Going Back" no caso de um dia um dia que só queira músicas mais agitadas.
4 Stars, solid album. Vocals are really the highlight of every song. No real bad songs, but not enough songs that are A Sides to justify 5 stars. Second Hand News - The droning palm muted acoustic guitar is so good!! Also the final solo didn't even need to go that hard. ♡ Dreams - Everytime this song plays I gaslight people saying it played in San Junipero even though it never did. People always believe me, this song was meant to be played in Cyber Lesbian Heaven. Never Going Back Again - Very tasteful guitar arrangement, great song. Don't Stop - This sounds like a Beatles song that is trying too hard. I can see it working as a nice Arena anthem, but not really my thing. Go Your Own Way - Seems like every song in this album is created with the purpose of making you wanna know the lyrics to sing them from the top of your lungs. I like it. The bass fill on the chorus is TASTY and the minimalist guitar solo is exactly what the song needs. Good stuff. Songbird - I enjoyed the piano much more than I did the vocal arrangement. I was anticipating something more Elton John-y and got disappointed. If there's a version without the guitar it's probably better than the original. (Matter of fact the first thing I did was finding https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQFpkEFbVrA and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ6EzJ9xTUc. Once they sync you get a better song lmao) ♡ The Chain - Not a single bad sound in this song. The Vocal harmonies are so fucking good. You Make Loving Fun - Good enough radio song. Not my thing. I Don't Want to Know - The vocal harmonies are really good. A bit too yee-haw for my taste. Oh Daddy - The part with the guitar harmonics and the bass groove is really good. The fragility of the lyrics is conveyed really well by the vocal performance. Nice Song. ♡ Gold Dust Woman - Another amazing vocal performance. Though this time the guitars (both acoustic and the electric ones at the end) are also amazing. Added another song to my liked list. Great way to end a great album.
Rumours has been one of my favorite albums since I first heard it back in the early 80s. It is a very well recorded album and I use The Chain to test the staging of a system. The harmonies on the album are great and musically it is tight.
A couple of my favourite tracks on this album. But ive never listened to the whole album all the way trough. Saved 7 tracks to my need to play-list.
I'm giving this a 4 'cause it's obviously sweet but I've heard it way too many times and prefer listening to some other Mac albums. Like Tusk!
One of the greatest records of all time. Only thing that could have made it better is if they replaced Oh Daddy with Silver Springs
One of the best albums ever!
Despite what some say, this album isn't as overrated as they make it out to be. However, it's also not as good as others will have you believe. Yes, there's a couple down moments on the record (Songbird & Oh Daddy), but other than that, it's a really solid album. It's not the greatest album ever made, not even close... but it's still a lot of fun!! 84/100 = " ★ ★ ★ ★ "
My love for Heavy Metal made it hard to like this album at the time, love it now
Pretty much every song is a hit single and they all hold up really well. One of the best pop albums ever
For all intents and purposes this should be a 5 star, songs are all great. I just don't think I ever would go out of my way to listen to. Sure if it comes up on the radio or feed, I will tap my toe and hum along, but I just don't think I would put it on (expect to listen to a couple bass fills on Dreams). But that's more on me than on the album
Really good album. Enjoyable listen. Songs changed it up just enough to keep it interesting.
I know this album gets a lot of love, and I guess I just don't "get" it. "Dreams" is good and so is "The Chain," but nothing about the rest has ever really impressed me. In fact, I don't think these versions of those two songs are even my favorite performances. That's not to say I dislike this album - for me it's just good, not great.
Second album de FM, après Tusk qui ne m'avait pas plu. J'ai reconnu quelques morceaux dans ce nouvel album, mais j'ignorais qu'ils étaient de ce groupe : Don't stop + Go your own way ++ Mais les autres morceaux ne m'ont pas vraiment accroché, en particulier les morceaux plus lents. Certes les harmonies vocales sont intéressantes, mais l'accompagnement n'est pas très original. Je n'y reviendrais pas. =>2/5
No doubt it is one of the best albums ever produced!
Easy 5 stars. Almost every song on here is a classic. There's some nice variety too, with softer and moodier tracks mixed in with folk and upbeat pop tracks.
Favorite Track: The Chain
Amazing Album. Every song is amazing, great structure
My rating is actually 3.5, but I gave it 4 since I can't give half stars. In general the album was good and I can see why it is so popular and beloved by many people. My favorite tracks were Dreams, Don't Stop, Go Your Own Way and I Don't Want to Know.
The context for the album itself deemed it’s greatness, very very catchy.
Love break the chain
Day 0012/1001 of One Album a Day / Listened to whilst: studying Fav tracks: Second Hand News / Dreams / Go Your Own Way / The Chain Worst tracks: Never Going Back Again
As a teenager in the mid-90s babysitting for my neighbours, I fell asleep while their four-year-old ran riot. Their return, however, wasn't met with scolding, but with exuberant praise for a band I'd never heard of: Fleetwood Mac. As I grew older, the name Fleetwood Mac became inescapable, and Rumours became an album that you knew even if you hadn't actively listened to it. "Rumours," though seemingly a polished pop-rock record, is a tapestry woven from personal turmoil. Buckingham and Nicks, entangled and estranged, penned "Go Your Own Way" and "Dreams," raw exchanges disguised as elegant pop songs. Christine McVie's "You Make Loving Fun," a seemingly joyful anthem, carries the weight of her affair with the band's lighting director, a secret her husband John McVie played along to nightly. I'm always struck by the deceptive dissonance between the album's extended lore (excess, drugs, turmoil, betrayal), its lyrical cattiness, and the soft tone of much of the music on the album. The sonic richness is undeniable though. Buckingham, the perfectionist, layered guitars with precision, creating intricate textures like the fingerpicked "Never Going Back Again." McVie's "Songbird," a stripped-down piano ballad, is drenched in reverb, echoing with a poignant loneliness. "Rumours" stood out in the 70s landscape dominated by polished rock. Fleetwood Mac infused their music with an emotional honesty that immediately connected. Mick Fleetwood, the band's anchor, provided a steady rhythm, grounding their collective chaos. "Don't Stop," initially a hopeful anthem, took on a different life as Bill Clinton's campaign song, becoming more slogan than song. Yet, beyond politics, Rumours remains a cultural touchstone, influencing countless artists and appearing in films and television. While some tracks might seem less impactful today, perhaps it's unfair to call them weaker; after all, even an emerald can seem dull beside a diamond. Rumours remains a masterpiece, a testament to the power of turning personal chaos into enduring art. Did/Do I own this release? No Does this release belong on the list? Yes. Rumours is a pivotal album of its era. Would this release make my personal list? The hits are incredible, but I'm not sure this album flows as well as it should. Will I be listening to it again? These songs are inescapable.
2nd best album of all time perhaps....
Such a beautiful and perfect album. Excellent start.
elite
"The Chain": the only good Fleetwood Mac song. 4 stars anyway.
funsies
Classic, 10/10, nothing more I can say
Some pretty good songs but kind of didn't like the rest so much
Excepcionalmente perfecto. Un trabajo milimétrico una fiesta instrumental de exilios.
I didn't have to listen to this album to know that this was getting a 5
A goddamn classic. One year my siblings and their spouses and my wife and I had some drinks and played "Fuck Marry Kill: Rumours" Results, by a poll of 8 Gen X and Millenial adults: Fuck: The Chain (runner up You Make Loving Fun) Marry: Songbird, Dreams, Go Your Own Way, Never Goin' Back Again, Gold Dust Woman, Second Hand News Kill: Oh Daddy (runner up Don't Stop, just because of overuse) I get why it's the highest rated album on here, a high water mark in pop and classic rock.
Mostly solid, the slower songs weren’t as punchy and the “oh, daddy” song really should have been left on the cutting room floor. B side at best on that one. 4.5/5 *
didn't fell like listening to this at the moment maybe a later date?
Never going back again riff lernen!
Well, as worried as I am for 2025 as a whole, I can at least rest knowing that I'll be able to listen to some more amazing albums this year. Case in point, my first album of 2025, Rumours. Fleetwood Mac's 11th album is one of those albums that has garnered a reputation as being among the best of the best. There aren't very many albums out there with a reputation like Rumours. I mean, it's literally the highest rated album on this very website as I'm writing this, with Abbey Road at a very close second place. Is this warranted? It absolutely is. Rumours may just be one of the greatest albums I've ever heard. There was a lot of hardship during the making of this album. Between the relationship struggles between band mates, the pressure to make their best album yet, and a heaping dose of the 70s rock staple that is cocaine, Fleetwood Mac was not a very stable band during the process of making Rumours (when have they ever been stable though?). And yet, they made a masterpiece. The singing from Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, and Stevie Nicks is always excellent. The instrumentation here is so finely-crafted to be as wonderful as possible and it works. Apparently the guitar strings for one of the songs were swapped out every 20 minutes so the song could sound as good as possible. That's insane. The songwriting is great too. There's a common theme of relationships, which makes sense seeing as the band was struggling a lot in regard to their romantic relationships. However, not every song is sad. Songs like "Don't Stop" are actually quite positive. And of course, we have to talk about the songs themselves. There's not a bad one in the bunch. They're all amazing. Obviously, the big hits like "Dreams," "Go Your Own Way," and "The Chain" are some of the best songs I've heard, but the deep cuts here are still great. The fact that a song like "I Don't Want to Know" is one of the less popular songs on the album speaks to how consistently excellent this album is. I don't know what to say. Rumours lived up to the expectations. I get it. There's so much more I could say, but I don't even think it matters. The album speaks for itself. It is a masterpiece, through and through. 5/5.
Good album, definitely a classic, I personally just don’t love fleetwood mac.
This album excels in every musical aspect—compositions, vocals, instrumentation, and production. It’s impeccable. However, it fails to captivate me. At all. I prefer music that is at least a little perplexing, a little strange, and this softrock album doesn’t deliver that. Another point of critique is the lyrics. They read like confession-porn. The artists' expressed mutual love and sorrow don’t resonate with me at all. It’s a prime example of melodrama. I know one must tread carefully when discussing sensitive topics like this album, with the high rating it has. Rumours (and Fleetwood Mac) are just not my thing.
I never liked Fleetwood Mac, but I knew about this album, and as I thought, I don't really like it. Besides 'Dreams' and 'The Chain', which I already knew, I like 'Oh Daddy'. Overall, it's a good album, but not for me. When I was listening, I picture myself in a field, like a knight.
Own this. Love it.
The album which defines the 1970s. Superlative.
One of the best albums in this list.
5+ stars. A classic whose music is only surpassed by what was going on behind the scenes.
Some good songs. More of a range than I thought. I don’t love the sound of the recording, very compressed vocals. But I like it more than I thought. Never Going Back Again is super corny and out of place. The Chain is a surprise as a good song. I’m sure I’ve heard it before.
It's a bit of a banger, to be sure, though I don't really share the five-star love a lot of people give it. Undoubtedly solid.
Hit after hit after hit after hit. Unbelievable album
Крайне переоценённый альбом. Но звучит, на самом деле, приятно. Лучшая песня: The Chain
not THE greatest album on this list but a banger nonetheless
The best!!!
Second Hand News 3 Dreams 3.6 Never Going Back Again 3.1 Don't Stop 3.4 Go Your Own Way 3.5 Songbird 3 The Chain 3.5 You Make Loving Fun 3.3 I Don't Want to Know 3.1 Oh Daddy 3.2 Gold Dust Woman 3.3 Score: 3.272727273
One of my favourite Fleetwood Mac albums. They’re also my comfort songs
Absolutt klassiker. Dreams og The Chain er to av de beste sangene noen sinne. Men jeg kan ikke si det samme om albumet. Det blir litt for soft for meg. Fortsatt utrolig bra album, men ikke helt i toppen.
I’ve already heard Tusk on this journey, and going back to the album prior fits like a glove. Before I dive deep into Rumours, I will acknowledge that this album has been considered overrated by some people, and not everyone carries the same enthusiasm for the heartland rock style of Fleetwood Mac. After all, art is subjective, and therefore opinions are going to be different amongst everyone. This is from my perspective why I consider Rumours is an amazing album, and more than justifies its placement on this list. For starters, much like with David Bowie’s Station to Station which I covered earlier, this is an album that works in spite of the trouble brewing behind the scenes. Every band member in Fleetwood Mac was going through heartbreak at the time, in addition to extensive touring, extensive cocaine usage, tabloid interruptions, and the drive to follow up their successful self-titled album. Yet despite those mounting issues, the band were able to come together and craft an album that maintains strong instrumentation, vocal presence, and production quality. In some cases, the band went above and beyond, such as Lindsey Buckingham changing his guitar strings every twenty minutes to maintain a bright acoustic sound on “Never Going Back Again”, or the layering of clean and distorted guitars for a fuller experience on “Go Your Own Way”, or even the audio splicing of several tapes together to create “The Chain”. Also even though the relationship drama was touched upon in some songs like “The Chain”, “Dreams”, and “Go Your Own Way”, as well as the drug usage on “Gold Dust Woman”, there are also a number of tracks that take a more optimistic outlook. This sentimentality is apparent in “Don’t Stop” and “You Make Loving Fun”, but it also carries into Christine McVie’s solo piece “Songbird” about the sacrifices one makes in the pursuit of love, and “I Don’t Want to Know” with the prospect of reconciling one another after going through a rough patch. Even the pair of “Dreams” and “Go Your Own Way” maintain a more positive-leaning sense of moving on after a relationship is over. That is all to say why I personally enjoy Rumours and why I accept this album in its legendary status. To each their own, but I can come to understand why this one is well-regarded. Finally as a side-note, I can't believe it took me over a decade and a half to notice the pair of balls dangling from Mick Fleetwood's pants. Thank you to the person who wrote the top comment at the time of writing for pointing that out.
Nonstop bangers. Borderline a greatest hits album. I particularly love Oh Daddy, had never heard that one before and it was lovely.
There's a reason this is one of the top five albums of all time. It has it critiques and the sound can be slightly dated (especially on You Make Loving Fun), but if a group of people that went from screwing each other, to hating each other and STILL put out this masterpiece, every musician since has been doing it wrong if they weren't doing it this way. 5/5
Fantastic
Go Your Own Way The Chain
Masterpiece of an album. My favorite was "Songbird". 10/10.
good, classic
Good, particularly enjoyed Never Going Back Again and The Chain.
I thought I’d never listened to this album Turns out I already knew every song on here Turns out I absolutely love at least 6 songs on here A classic for a reason
Overplayed? Probably, but damn!
Absolute solid gold classic 5. Massive fan of Lindsey Buckingham in this era currently. Will take the opportunity to say I wish I could edit my scores and give Tusk a 5 also.
Hated it
Just bonkers how good this album is. Every other artist would kill to have 1 timeless track on an album, maybe even 2 if they're really lucky, but here Fleetwood Mac has like 7 of them, and the other 4 are also incredible tracks. One of the easiest 5s in this whole list, no wonder it's topping the highest rated list
A truly phenomenal album from front to back. This is such a folky rock album full of rich harmonies and intricate melodies. On top of that, the songs are fun to listen to, but contemplative at the same time. It really feels like an evergreen album that you can find something new in every time you hear it.
The Chain song is on it. That says it all.
I mean what can you say about this. era defining. the longevity of this album is crazy. it’s funny how biased I am towards the stevie and christine songs. don’t stop is almost a skip for me these days. also probably cheating but I did listen to the reissue with silver springs. 5/5 because I love divorce, polycules, and substance abuse
A classic, so much fun to revisit. One of my favorite Fleetwood Mac albums.
I wish I could listen to this album again for the first time. Literally shed a tear to the go your own way guitar solo this morning.
跟beatles好像好像好像 好爽
Already listened a million times before!
A classic, listened to this a lot of times.
4 - it was really interesting to both listen in order and to listen to the less popular songs, there’s definitely a split between the well loved and the rest. I can see why it has some of the best ratings: it’s just hard to dislike
Phenomenal all the way through. Not much else to say except it's wonderful.
Favorite Fleetwood Mac album.
I mean, it's Rumours.
Probably the album I’ve listened to more times than any other. Pretty much perfect. And I still hear the scratch in Songbird that our LP copy has, but I haven’t played it in about 25 years.
I honestly tried to listen to this fairly, to take it on its own merits, but when you're singing along to every word of an album you be listened to for the past thirty minutesears, it's hard to be objective... What can you say? It's Rumours, it's always been great and always will be, and it's getting this five star rating fully deservedly. Faves: Go Your Own Way, Second Hand News, Dreams
one of my favourite albums of all times, what more can i say, no notes 10/10 perfect, the best diss track compilation ever, thank god for giving us all these drama induced bangers
I knew it was a banger but didn't appreciate how many big singles and tracks were just on this album.
timeless classic. still going strong. flawless.
There’s a hotel in Dubai that has called itself the world’s first 7-star hotel. Pretentious crap, it’s no better than most other 5-star hotels. 5-stars being where the ratings max out. However Rumours could legitimately make a claim of being a 7-star album- it’s that good.
Some super iconic songs, and a bunch of filler.
could i write poetry to this? n and still
Fleetwood Mac suffered for their own sins to create this perfect Pop album. An unmatched chronicle of the breakups, both personal and professional, that would define them for nearly half a century.
I've heard them all a million times. Don't really need to hear most of this ever again, but it's still really good.
Classic No songs were too slow for my liking 10/10
1 song was a bit slow for my liking. 8/10
S tier album. Nothing bad to say. No skips.
I already know how good this album is!
This is an amazing album full of great song after great song as well as many "hits". This is an all time great album. I was excited to ahve this one pop up.
Damn near perfect. Beautiful guitar and vocals. Big fan of this one.
I realize I am in the great minority, but I really don’t like this album. Never have. Objectively, it’s not bad music. I just don’t care for Stevie Nicks’ voice (again, I know an unpopular opinion) and don’t remember ever not being sick of hearing any of these songs. The only song I kind of enjoyed was Never Going Back Again, which doesn’t have Nicks singing and I’ve never heard before, so maybe I might like earlier Fleetwood Mac. I have just always hated this album. For personal preference, it’s a 1/5, but because I realize the songs themselves are not “bad,” I’ll give it a 2/5.
Classic all bangers.
Folksy rock. This might be, pound for pound, the greatest album of all time. Just hit after hit. Even the worst song on this album could be the best song on lesser albums.
I heard this album a thousand times in the late 70's and that overplay doesn't diminish it in any way. Really good then, really good now.
Ya it’s great what else to say? Not even my favorite fleetwood Mac album but still one of the best of all time. Proof that cocaine and cheating are the cornerstones of making a great album. Also, Christine McVie does not get even respect. Don’t stop and you make loving fun get overlooked when you have bangers like the chain and dreams on the same album
Definition of a no-skips album
Pretty much an all time classic. Would give 4.5 if I could
Easiest 5 yet! Perhaps not always a formula for success, but this is what happens when everyone in the band is banging one another.
Love it! So fun
Incredible album. Makes you dance, makes you feel, makes you cry. This could be a list of the top 25 albums of all time and you could still make a strong case for Rumours.
There were some groups that I acquired every note they ever produced because I enjoyed them that much - Fleetwood Mac was NOT one of those groups. That said, there’s no denying the greatness of this album. It’s a moment in time, and yet timeless.
Again, I know all the songs but never really listened. Streaming doesn't do these albums any favors. There is an arc that is built on each side. And I can't figure out if songbird as the end on side a or the start of the b side. And I feel like the meaning would change depending. Amazing vocals.
Yeah it’s a masterpiece
I've been listening to this album since it came out. In the 70s all of us and our cousins had this album. After all these years, it is still a masterclass in song writing, mood and saying more with less. This is one of the best. 5/5
perfect album no notes
So many great songs on here. I'll admit a little bias for Stevie Nicks, I generally like her songs better than the other band members' compositions. However even the other tracks are very good, it's just a wonderful 70s rock album.
Puro banger
Fantastic album, hit after hit. Flows well with lots of variety.
I see that this is the highest rated album here, and part of me really wanted to just give it a 4. But, upon listening to it once again, it has to be a 5. They really set out to make an all-killer-no-filler album, and while not every song on it is perfect (Christine McVie's songs in particular don't do it for me as much), the sum of the album really is greater than its parts. It sounds like classic rock's swan song, and it's honestly glorious. Fav tracks: Dreams, Don't Stop, Go Your Own Way, The Chain, Gold Dust Woman
Every song (with maybe 2 exceptions) is pop gold. But none of it is pop. The best art is often forged in personal pain and social adversity.
Wouldn't even need to listen to say 5* But this album is a pleasure to return to. Lindsey Buckingham is a brilliant musician and anyone who has tried to learn Never Going Back Again knows the genius of his playing. Vocals are awesome. Absolutely love it, and it rightly deserves all the praise it gets. I think they may have done some drugs and had a few affairs but not sure if they mentioned it.
Absolute classic,
No skips album!!
Fuck
What is there to say that hasn't already been said? Every song a bona fide classic.
Perfect. I’m surprised it’s the highest rated album out of the 1001 but it’s certainly an all time classic. I’m lucky enough to have it on vinyl too :)
i am surprised i didn't grow up with this album given the ridiculous amount of 70s rock that my parents listened to. this is fun!
- listened to before, no skips - songbird saddest love song ever - silver springs should've been on the original album - highlights: all of them
All too played and all too familiar. Is it a great album - yes? Is it great enough that I can see it pop up on my listening list and not roll my eyes and sigh "this again" - no. It probably deserves a 5 but I'm just sick of it. And it's just not impactful enough that I can listen to it 100 times and not get sick of it. I'm probably getting a bit sick of all the same rock that this website is generating for me, plus, on my list this album followed Metallica. Now that's an album that takes it to the next level.
Love it. Super album for anyone
One of the all time great albums
I feel legally obligated to throw this a 5
For how little familiarity I have of almost any other Fleetwood Mac album, its crazy to me that almost every single song I knew by them prior to listening to this ended up being on the album. Writing is great and very personable, and the variety of styles makes the album very fun to listen to. Favorites were The Shain, Don't Stop, Dreams, and You Make Loving Fun
I mean yeah this is really great. We all know that already. Love the guitar solo on The Chain
Look, it's a good album, with some great songs ... but for me the second half really tails off and I just don't see it as one of the greatest albums ever made. I think the legend of the album is why people rate it so highly, but it just isn't that amazing. It's a good 4, but not a 5, and nowhere near the best ever.
Great album, dreams is a beautiful song
I didn't /have/ to listen to this album again to know it's great. But I did.
I have been waiting for this album ever since I started this project, and about three years later: here we go. This album not only consists of a straight row of hit after hit but also is so recognizable and incredible. This is the exact representation of an album that should be on this list with no complaints. Whether you like this album or not there is no denying the influence that this album had and continues to have on the music world.
"Rumours? No - that's all true." If I have anything negative to say it's completely a personal-taste thing, as I never liked Fleetwood Mac as a kid. Too often the super-sweet melodies/harmonies of this album especially hadn't connected with me (even if I've actually owned the album since forever ago) much at all and there was no edge or danger to the music....and for me Christine McVie had an objectively lovely voice and yet her songs and singing did nothing for me. ...but at the same time wtf it sold like 30 MILLION copies and when they apparently went into the studio aiming for a flawless record where every song could potentially be a hit, they nailed it in a way that maybe only a small handful of acts in history have ever nailed it. So, huge props for achieving the nearly unachievable goal. Also I'm older so who GAF about being edgy. Also it *sounds* absolutely amazing. There's a lot of subtlety in virtually each and every song from all instruments that gets uncovered when you carefully listen in headphones, even if you (I) have heard these songs a quabillion times. TL;DR: Like most of the diamond-selling monster classic rock albums I'm always sick of these songs if I hear one in the wild but listening to the album front to back is the way to do it and I'll always fully-appreciate it this way. Favourite track: "Gold Dust Woman" 8/10 4 stars
Sure, I've heard of Fleetwood Mac from the 70's and apparently just about every song from this album by ubiquitous radio broadcast. For whatever reason I never actually listened to the record and abided the band as pleasant and inoffensive. Now, taking the time to actively regard it, I realize what a treasure of a time capsule it is. The songwriting and performances exude inspired expression and the studio engineering captures the comfort of the soothing rhythm section throughout. I just try not to think about the 'rumors' that the band mates were perpetrating heinous hanky panky.
Really good
I think this is their classic album - go your own way is a fucking great song. As great as that song is don’t stop thinking about tomorrow is so corny - I hate it. I’m sure this gets tons of 5s, I’ll give it a 4. Alsways said the songs Stevie is featured in are the best. Side note I hate the two nuts hanging from Mic’s midsection.