Rumours

💯💯

This is the best album of all time. no notes. I sold my first car last week and I had the best memories of driving around and listening to this album. I had so many CDs but the only one that was in my player was this one.

one of the best

It’s not the kind of genre I typically like, yet I have to give it 5 stars and that is a testament to just how good the songwriting is. I think any song could be a single on this.

Has to be in the arguement for greatest album of all time

Pierwsze 10/10. Ta płyta jest po prostu perfekcyjna. Męski wokal. Damski wokal. Kompozycje. Teksty. Ballady. Żwawe utwory. No majstersztyk. Słów mi brakuje.

What an absolute powerhouse of an album. Literally ever song is a fucking banger! No filler at all. Also....Mick Fleetwood's balls, lol. Favorite songs: The Chain, Go Your Own Way, Don't Stop, Dreams, Second Hand News, I Don't Want to Know, Never Going Back Again, Songbird, You Make Loving Fun, Gold Dust Woman, Oh Daddy Least favorite songs: none. Absolute perfection. 5/5

This has to be one of the greatest of all time. Song after song is incredible and re-listenable. One of the masterpieces of our time and top rated here for a reason. 9.5/10 (4.75/5)

I own this album on vinyl and I've probably listened to it 20 times, and it's still one of my favorite. Every single track is wonderful and most are just amazing. One of the best albums of music every published IMO. Five stars, easily.

A friend of mine in college had a car that whenever he started the engine, it would restart the CD in the player, and he always had Rumours in. I must have heard the beginning of Second Hand News more times than any other song, and yet it is still incredible. I thought it would be hard to evaluate Rumours as an album, as the songs feel like they have all taken on the weight of being separate, but I needn’t have worried: this album is as close to perfect as it can get. I like Fleetwood Mac anyway, but something about the circumstances surrounding this album or a particular alignment of the planets (or something else less wanky) has given this album a presence and impact that few others can match. Just outstanding front to back.

Last two tracks can't live up to the star power of everything that comes before it. Still amazing, absolutely timeless.

Not enough stars 🤩

5 their best by far not overrated at all faves: never going back again, you make loving fun, don't stop

another album that feels patently absurd to rate on a 5-star scale because it just exists outside the realm of anything quantifiable. no amount of stars or list ranking could encapsulate the impact it’s had on culture and its power to still make me feel crazy. like these aren’t even songs anymore, they’re something much more essential to the very fabric of humanity. i think certain individual tracks from *fleetwood mac* and *tusk* actually move me more on an emotional level, but *rumours* is without a doubt their most iconic single ALBUM. fav tracks: the chain; dreams; gold dust woman; never going back again; songbird; you make loving fun; oh daddy

literally a perfect album. no skips and it's cohesive yet all-encompassing of the best and most diverse parts of their sound. the only track I don't super love is Don't Stop because I find it kind of dopey, but I don't think it bogs down the flow of the album and serves as a tonal liaison between its adjacent tracks (Never Going Back Again and Go Your Own Way respecitvely) which otherwise would've probably been jarring. the flow of this album works so well to hype you up and settle you down and make you pensive and make you feel at all the right moments, and then it ends with a bang. it would've been amazing to see them play this all the way through live. fav tracks: dreams, never going back again, go your own way, songbird, the chain, you make loving fun, oh daddy, gold dust woman

An easy five stars but any excuse to re-listen works

5 Stars (14/15)

Sounds like a greatest hits collection.

Rumours is one of those rare albums where the music is just as legendary as the drama behind it. Fleetwood Mac was falling apart while making this thing — cheating, breakups, shouting matches — total chaos. And somehow, out of all that personal wreckage, they put together a near-perfect record. It should have been a lesson for John McVie and Lindsey Buckingham not to shit where they eat… but hey, it worked out for them. The tension, the heartbreak, the spite — it's all baked into the songs, and that's exactly what makes the album hit so hard. “Secondhand News” kicks it off with a jolt of energy and bitterness. “Go Your Own Way” is a breakup anthem that somehow sounds both sad and stadium-sized. And “You Make Loving Fun” is smooth, joyful, and dripping with irony given everything going on behind the scenes. Every track is tight, emotionally raw, and endlessly replayable. Rumours is messy in the best way. Favorite song: Go Your Own Way

While Rumours isn't my personal favorite album of all time, it is certainly in the debate for best album of all time. It has the extremely unique qualities of both withstanding the rest of time without growing old/feeling over played. The harmonizing triple vocals led by Stevie Nicks is what really strengthens this album for me.

When the greatest album of all time is brought up, this one is never missed. For good reason, the raw emotions this album contains is always clear, couples with fantastic musicians, especially guitars, makes for an incredible experiwnce.

This album is not necessarily to my taste but still feels objectively awesome. The production, mixing, creativity and diversity in sound is amazing. I just wish the radio didn't crush some of these songs from being so overpaid.

Would have been better with silver springs on it but an all time classic

Another classic innit

Ok, so… reputation can be a double edged sword. It sets albums apart as classics, but they also set expectations for some that might be too high. When I saw that I finally got this album, I was a bit nervous. I mean, I knew about Go Your Own Way and Dreams, but I was rating Rumours as a whole effort. What if the deep cuts were forgettable? Honestly, I thought that anything less than a 5 would be disappointing to me. Fortunately, after hearing this album through, I am thankful that Rumours delivered. I know, it’s one of the most acclaimed album of all time. It’s neck-to-neck with Abbey Road on here for number one. I’m not adding anything of value by being the hundred thousandth person to gush over it. But, I don’t care. Every song here could have been a hit single in their own right. The band has these harmonies that just hit right on every song. Any point on Rumours that I thought I wouldn’t care for a particular song, Fleetwood Mac would always pull through. Honestly, it’s insane how an album can have about three lead singers and not have a weak point anywhere. The Buckingham songs, the Nick songs, the McVie songs, they’re all great. How in God’s name this album came out amid the drugs and tension within the band is miraculous. On a personal note, Fleetwood Mac is one of my mom’s favorite band, if not her favorite. Hell, her and my aunt both got shirts with the full lyrics of The Chain on them. It’s that deep. So personally, I was hoping that this album would stand out on that merit alone. Also, Go Your Own Way and Dreams are like, S-tier songs, so I was holding some bias down while listening to it. Thankfully, I am now fully convinced that this is one of the best albums of the seventies. Actually, scratch that. This is the best album of the seventies. Favorite track: Dreams (Between this and Go Your Own Way is like picking your favorite child) Other hits: The rest of the album. Seriously, that are no weak points.

Wow, this albums keeps the hits coming and doesn’t really let up. You get a brief crying break during “Songbird” then it’s back at it. Every tune distinct from the last, Fleetwood Mac manages to create some timeless hits on this album that have aged quite well.

5/5. Man, it may have been the first time I listened to the album that closely, but every song is a classic. Iconic.

Contender

great album a lot of amazing songs, album that i want to listen to on a road trip on the east coast or berkeley.

Absolutely one of the best albums ever recorded. So many incredible songs. Hard to believe it’s not a “Best Of.”

a greatest hits album. Christine, Stevie, and Lindsey songwriting clinic

Amazing. Love this album

There are better albums, but not many.

One of the best albums of all time

This album holds! Haven’t heard this entire album in decades…good music!

So good, so many hits yet flows like an album should . 🤟

This one was easy. Nearly a perfect album. Listened to it twice and it was as good as it’s ever been.

Incredible album, one of the greats

Another 70s 5-star album! I kinda swore into the whole idea that Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac is the superior era for the longest time. Might just be my middle finger shaped brain doing the rounds, but I genuinely thought that no way some pop was to dethrone the prince of blues. I still do think they're neck and neck, but Rumours surprised me quite a lot when I heard it in its entirety. Of course, the songs everyone and their grandmothers know like Dreams, The Chain, and You Can Go Your Own Way are instantaneous classics that took personal turmoil and turned it into catchy hooks and great guitar solos, but the other tracks on here stand high among them. Songbird and You Make Loving Fun are examples of deep cuts (if you can call them that, in an album every track is famous and well known), that I'm always in a mood to listen to, especially the latter. The funky bass line with the intimate, uplifting and optimistic feeling is a recipe for a great melody. It's an essential. This is what a pop album should sound like: diverse, simple sounds with a lot of thought put through them, and the emotion presented in such a way that it does feel like a document of a tough period, but does not feel like airing of dirty laundry, which is a quality I think is ofter overlooked when talking about this album. ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25

Soundtrack of my childhood right here.

Schönes Album. The Chain toller Song

I didn't have time to listen to this album today, but I know it's a five star album. Great album with a number of classics.

The song ‘Oh Daddy’ gives me the ick, which takes my rating from six stars down to five.

Nearly flawless. This is one of my all-time favorite bands and while I've mentioned that Tusk is my favorite of their albums, I recognize this is their masterpiece and probably ranks higher in sheer songcraft and production value. For all the internal strife—because of the internal strife—the band was experiencing during the making of this record, this album oozes an emotional current that underpins the barrage of excellent songs. And for all the accolades and attention the three vocalist/songwriters get (deservedly), the rhythm section of this band is just so freaking good. McVie and Fleetwood never play anything gaudy, but god-damned if there aren't a half dozen unmistakable bass riffs and the drumming is just so unique and perfect. Another element that flies under the radar are the brilliant harmony vocals that inject the songs with beauty and foreboding and next-level production value. There are the obvious spots where the harmonies shine, but there are textured vocals all over this album that are stellar—it's part of what makes this band so much better than a million other bands. I started the review saying this was "nearly flawless," and that's just because I don't LOVE Oh Daddy and Songbird as much as everything else on the record (sorry, Christine—your other tunes are genius... that riff in You Make Loving Fun is magic), but on today's listen, I was all in. I listened to my version of the reissue, which includes Silver Springs (the name was inspired by a town very close to where I grew up), which was not included on the original release due to the limitations of vinyl (not enough room!), and as much as I love the song, they made the right call when they left it on the cutting floor in regard to the flow and continuity of the record. Oh... and Buckingham's guitar work is incredible—every solo and rhythm part is exceptional. I highly recommend taking an hour to watch this awesome documentary for a deeper dive into how this brilliant album came to be. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaLnxwj-jwo&list=PLzmmLnROlZRgXs_45Z8lkcM_a99p4WsAi

10-15 years ago I attended a music conference in Vegas at the MGM Grand. At one point, I went to the men’s room, which was the largest I have ever seen. Had maybe 20 urinals on one wall. The place was empty. I went to one in the middle. A few minutes later a chap comes in and goes to the one right next to me. I looked up to be like, Bro WTF, and who do I see but Mick Fleetwood. He nodded politely. I did not look down to see if his balls looked like the ones on this cover. But I'm gonna assume so. Now for the album: Yeah, I mean, it's Rumours. It's ridiculous. I Don't Want to Know is OK and Oh Daddy is pretty bad, but the rest are tremendous. This time I was struck by how counterintuitive some of the arrangements are. btw, I don't love the 2004 remaster. Some of the tunes sounded hollow, and the levels from song to song were all over the place. Time for a redo!

What more can be said about one of the greatest albums of all time?! Every time I take it for a spin, I'm in awe of everything--Songbird, Lindsey's distinct guitar picking, Stevie's witchiness casting spells all over me, Mick's bus-driving chops, the McVies understated cool factor. I was particularly wow'd on this listen by the song order. Not a surprise and I've been in awe of that before but I was just gobsmacked by the brilliance of opening with Second Hand News and closing with Gold Dust Woman and every nugget perfectly placed in between.

top 10 best and fave albums ever. no skips, just banger after banger after banger. perfection. true masterpiece

I've never been much a fan of them outside their hits but I didn't realize that many of their hits came from this album.

YES! Love Fleetwood Mac and this is one of the most iconic albums ever.

Dreams is literally my favorite song ever made

It's Rumours. If you hate this album, no you don't. Not many albums come close to perfection, but there's virtually no notes here. Nearly every song is a classic. You could put this on shuffle and still think that was how the tracklist was supposed to be. From a scale of -5 to 5, this is the easiest 5 ever made.

The older I get, the more I appreciate Fleetwood Mac. This was a band of my upbringing. My dad didn’t listen to a lot of music and Fleetwood Mac Greatest Hits was one of maybe 6-7 cassettes (all of the collection were greatest hits album). Of his humble collection, Fleetwood was just meh. I didn’t hate it, but I enjoyed the other ones better. As I got older heard more and more of their catalog and it was always a distinct sound that was enjoyable but never resonated. Now, decades later I find myself putting on FM albums a couple times of year. Musically they are a really good band. They have a sound that to me is as distinct as any bands ever. Stevie’s vocals are even more distinct than their music and that creates just great classic rock. FM is one of those bands that I don’t necessarily think about them as an amazing band when short list are talk about but then listen to their music and think that era and genre, they are on a short list of the best. 9.2/10 #44/1001

Damn near a perfect album. So much emotion oozing out of every song.

I don't know how to feel about it. Obviously it's good. It wouldn't be the highest rated album here if it wasn't. That beings said there is something that just doesn't quite connect with me the same way it does with everyone else. 8/10 feels too low but 9/10 feels too high. I'm giving it 5 stars though because a re-listen will bump it up probably (it usually does with me)

One of the most perfect albums ever made. Classic start to finish - every song is 5/5.

Banger

a masterpiece! short, punchy, classic. reminded me ofc the Stevie Nicks concert in Amsterdam. shouldn't have got THAT high at that one but it was still an experience of a lifetime.

a classic.

Absolutely awesome album!

Jag har haft lite svårt att se storheten, men efter 15år i backen börja sikten klarna alltmer. Två skilsmässor och en massa kokain är drivmedel för detta mästerverk. Många hits och produktion som lyckats var slick men samtidigt lite rå. Mäktigt, där även såsiga mellanspår bidrar till dynamiken mellan käftsmällarna.

I was just beginning to listen to music when this album came out. Loved it cover to cover. It really spoiled me, I thought every album would be this good. Saw the concert when they toured that year and was one of my first concerts! Classic album! The songs went together in a great way! So many great vocals and passion in the words and lyrics! Love this one and it throws me back in time whenever I hear me of the songs!

Classic for a reason

This album is so hyped up that I tried hard to find a reason not to give it 5 stars but I couldn’t. It’s got straight bangers.

One of my favourite albums of all time. Being an F1 fan “The Chain” gets played a lot in my house!

What can I say about this album that hasn’t been said before like honestly this album is no skip and is as close to perfect as an album can be.

01/05/2025 Obviously this gets 5 stars. What an album.

Brilliant. Not a bad song on here, and several amazing ones; Dreams, Go Your Own Way, Songbird, The Chain. Crazy that The Chain wasn’t even one of the singles from this album. Rumours genuinely deserves all the plaudits it gets and it feels wrong to put this in the same category as some of my other 5s, so a 6 from me!

This has a had a real hype in recent years and I’m not sure whether I’m fully on board with it. But then maybe that’s what a great album is, one that even people that aren’t one hundred percent about it give five stars. Simpsons: Yes

Very good album, good vibes.

Such a good album, I'm not sure I can write any words that would do it justice.

Fleetwood Mac made some of their best music while fighting. Rumours. No, it's all true.

Classic

A few years ago I tried to rank the songs on this album because I love ranking things and I was dismayed to find out that one of them had to be last.

I can’t imagine not liking this album

Fleetwood Mac has always been a bit of a blindspot, but they put out some real yacht-rock, road trip jams mixed in with some real hard hitting bangers (The Chain, Gold Dust Woman). I need to listen to more

Finally 701 albums in we finally get to Rumours. Is it a perfect album, yes. Does it contain some of the best songs on record, yes Does it contain stevie nicks, yes Is it a 5, yes.

This must be that "LA sound" everyone is talking about. I love it.

One of the best albums, EVER!

Incredible. This was the first album of these that I gave a deeper look into the lyrics and boy was it an experience. I see why this album gets so much love it's so unique and every song revolves around the theme of losing the love between the members of the band, yet each one remains so unique

Dreams, one of my favourite songs of all time.. the bass , the drums, the voice... Many other hits. I agree with many album full of hits, easy listening, seems short. To be fair 4.75/5.

c'mon

I will argue that this is actually the best album ever produced. I think there's only 3 or 4 songs on it that don't currently get regular radio play. This is the gold (dust woman) standard for albums.

I think this might be the best album ever made? I know it's at the top of all kinds of lists, but it really is that good. Go Your Own Way? The Chain? Songbird? Gold Dust Woman? Silver Springs (I'll always consider it a full-on Rumours track)?? Dreams???? Pure genius. With how messed up things were behind the scenes, it's almost incomprehensible that this even exists.

Sometimes the stars align and a group puts out a project that is front to back enjoyable. Where every note is the perfect note for that time and place. I have to imagine this album was written in a total flow state, no thinking just going with the flow of the music. This album is refined without feeling too combed over, it goes deep without ever feeling unfocused, it flows well sonically without ever feeling samey. The album blends pop, rock, folk, psychedelic in a way that feels natural and fans of those genres can enjoy this album.

You can't really argue that its not a 5 star album. A 70's classic. And it plays like a greatest hits album as every track is so well known. A truly special album.

autobusa brauciens caur Kurzemi sešos no rīta, pavasara saulītei lēni austot, skan Rumors. manas pirmās 5 zvaigznītes ir diezgan loğiskas. Stevie Nicks you are everything to me…………. 2004(!) deluxe versijā pielika Silver Springs, kas neiespējamā kārtā uzlaboja jau perfektu albumu. un man šis album cover liekas tik SATISFYING, tik garšīgi acīm. tas kontrasts, tas fonts…. (+balls). MĪLU 70tos (šo es saku, protams, pieverot acis) mana mīļākā Fleetwood Mac dziesma gan nav iekļauta – Rhiannon. can’t have everything!!!

Es increíble. Uno siempre recuerda a Rumours como un disco genial, pero me soprende que cada vez que vuelvo a escucharlo, me parece aún mejor. No le sobra ni medio segundo.

Album 755 of 1089 Fleetwood Mac -Rumours (1977) Rating : 5 / 5 Considered one of the greatest albums and another listen didn't make me think any different. Awesome from beginning to end. The songwriting...the harmonies..the musicianship. This has a bit of it all.

YES! first one I've already listened to in full, indeed many times and i own it on vinyl. A wonderful excuse to whack it on thanks website God Secondhand News is so GOOD. always surprised that it isn't one of the Big Ones when I hit play. Trying to listen through Don't Stop... it's the one that sticks out to me, never been my favourite, but tbf listening to the rhythm section makes it fit better?? How does The Chain, already the greatest song ever written and that's science, still get better every time and then You Make Loving Fun doesn't feel like a comedown?? Best pairing of two songs on an album in musical history?? I also love how good the bass is on you make loving fun. Make him play that shit Christine. I wish Oh Daddy wasn't called that. It's like the one flaw. That and that it ends. How am I on the last song already. Come back. Like I've tried to listen with a fresh ear and not just blindly give it a 5 but if anything that made it better. I think this album was playing at the beginning of time. As the earth was forged Gold Dust Woman could be heard from the core. It's so Big and Urgent without being overwhelming.. like it's a calming album even with those big driving rhythms idk man it's fundamental. I love it so much. Thank you Fleetwood Mac for putting yourselves through all that.

This is for songwriting, performance, production, atmosphere a justly deserved 5.

Perfection from a troubled group.

Amazing album, timeless.

This whole album, top to bottom, is fantastic. Exquisite. 1001 album worthy: Yes - 73/135

Solid! Should’ve listened earlier

Um daqueles albuns que eu queria ser uma mosca no estúdio durante sua gravação. Toda a história por trás desse disco me fascina até mais que as músicas em si. Disco atemporal, com certeza. Não tem muito o que dizer a respeito. Mesmo se você nunca ouviu esse disco, você ja deve ter ouvido metade das canções. Tamanha é sua influência e alcance. Até aqui no 1001 ele ta no topo das notas globais. E é um disco que me agrada, assim como grande parte dos clássicos dos anos 1970. Através desse projeto to percebendo o quanto eu gosto daquela década específica. Algumas faixas desse disco são inconsequentes pra mim, mas não é o suficiente pra ofuscar o brilho dos melhores momentos desse álbum monumental, e nem pra tirar sequer uma fração de estrela da nota. 5/5

The album is great!

One of the best albums of all time

Finally listened to this front to back and I now know what I was missing out on. One of the most critically acclaimed albums of all time for a reason.

Yeah, this is one of the top five greatest albums of all time. I've listened to this one a lot! Good to listen to it all the way through for the first time in a while. Still a fan of the deepest cut on the album: Gold Dust Woman <3

This album is the soundtrack to two intense periods of my life. With incredible depth, this album is a must listen for anyone trying to understand the mid 1970s music scene. If not my personal number 1 or 2, it is definitely in my top five all time albums. Song Bird….

One of the easier 5s I would ever give.

Easiest 5 I've had so far, if there's a better full album on this earth I've not heard it.

I’ve listened to this album 54,000 times and it never gets old. Except for “Oh Daddy”, I’ve only listened to that one 48,000 times ‘cos it’s a bit janky. To be a drug dealer in the Sausalito studio - the stories I could tell! I’d contrive to have Christine write a song about our tender encounter and leave “Oh Daddy” off the album.

-holy shit this is just. phenomenal. I am quite familiar with a couple of songs on here and I’ve been meaning to listen to the full album all the way through -honestly exceeded expectations. every single song on here is good. some more so than others, perhaps, but I could listen to this over and over and never get bored. 4.5 or so now but I could easily see this going up to five -Favorites are Dreams, Never Going Back Again, The Chain, and You Make Loving Fun

Straight bangers back to back

Whoa, I recognize song after song. I had no idea some of these were Fleetwood Mac. This is an album full of hits. Makes me want to boof some cocaine! I'm giving this a 5 for the amount of hits on here. Not too many albums can boast that. The Chain is my favorite.

Some of my favorite songs from this band are on other albums, but this is an undeniably great collection from a group of talented artists--individually, but even more so collectively. My top tracks: Go Your Own Way, The Chain, You Make Loving Fun, Gold Dust Woman. Coolest moment: the haunted wailing at the end of Gold Dust Woman. Funniest moment: the Muppet jamboree vibe of Second Hand News.

It's such a choice album. To rate it as anything less than perfect would be a disgrace to all that they sacrificed to create this album. Marriages ended. Drugs became problems

Love this album. Solid all the way through. An album made for people cheating on each other by people cheating on each other, as the joke goes. Not really, but it's good music.

Already listened, fantastic album

Loved: Second Hand News, Dreams, Never Going Back Again, Don't Stop, Go Your Own Way, The Chain, I Don't Want To Know Decent: Songbird, You Make Loving Fun, Oh Daddy, Gold Dust Woman Didn't Like:

Very good, would buy LP

One of the best albums of all time, no doubt. Trying to keep an open mind for this listen though. Should be doable as I only ever listen to individual songs from this album, never the whole thing front to back. Second Hand News took me by surprise immediately because it was a) not one of their big hits and b) a weird song. Fleetwood Mac's strong grasp of vocal harmony and interesting song structure shone through even though it's not my fave song of theirs. I can see how the minimalist arrangements can sometimes delude listeners into thinking some songs are "boring", but really, these songs have just what they need and no more, which is such a rare gift in any kind of art. It's so so easy to keep adding elements until our ADHD brains are appeased, but these arrangements are so sparse that it results in a clear emphasis on the interesting parts (a little bass noodle here, a small drum flourish there, a quiet but important backing vocal). Never Going Back Again has one of the most beautiful guitar melodies in the Western Canon and deserves to be a song you must listen to before you die. Songbird has to be the only mediocre song on the album. I forgive it for existing, because nothing on this earth is perfect, but Rumours comes pretty damn close. I didn't really notice the creative tones/fx on the bass until this listen - they add a lot to the sound without being overbearing or corny. Vocals are often haunting when they're not layered in a complex and beautiful harmony (see Gold Dust Woman).

Stone cold classic

If this album was just "The Chain" and then 45 minutes of Depeche Mode, it would still only drop to a 4.

What can one say about Rumours that hasn’t already been said? An instant 5 star album. TIME CAST A SPELL ON YOU BUT YOU WON’T FORGET ME (I know it’s not an official track but I had to)

One of the very Best!

FIVE STARS ZERO NOTES

A historic album. If you're even slightly interested in music, you can't miss it!

5 lol

Definitely a great album. I wouldn't say it's the best album on this list, but I can respect it

10/10

Varied. Enjoyed listening to it. Even the fillers are thrillers.

I mean what is there left to be said about arguably one of the greatest albums ever with arguably one of the greatest songs ever on it? This album is magnificent, even the B-Sides are legendary. 10/5 stars

Now, Rumours is definitely not my favourite album of all time, and I actually do not really like side 2 too much, but the side 1 of Rumours is very very very solid. An album easy to listen, emotional, well composed, it's one of those albums that do definitely belong on this list and can compete with the tops of this list.

By far one of the most popular albums of all time. Like "The chain" and "You make loving fun" already" Second Hand news: Bow bow bow, very upbeat. Dreams: Her voice will always be angelic. I feel like i'm drifting down a river in a tube, a apple busch light in hand. Never going back again: the way the instrumental is so up beat and contrasts with the wallowy lyrics is really interesting and generates a layer of complexity. The singer sounds so done, never going back, and yet the instrumentals have an air on contentment. Don't stop: meh, it's good but no major stand outs. Really repetitive. Lacks some soul. Go your own way: Classic. Played this song for band like 3 years ago but completely forgot about it, it's just in a playlist. Song Bird: I hate how slow this is. This makes me feel like the people who think this album is overrated are correct. Girl I ain't in church. Do i need to write anything for the chain and you make loving fun. Both are fire. I don't want to know: FIREEEEEEE

4/10/2025: Bangers

A true 5 star. Every song on this album is a recognized hit! Great memories.

Amazing how Fleetwood Mac was able to channel their inner turmoil to fantastic music. Also, Buckingham is an underrated guitarist.

Amazing album. No bad songs.

This album was fantastic. I’d already listened to half of it before because half this album are some of Fleetwood Mac’s biggest hits but even the stuff that don’t make the greatest hits collection are still great. Truely one of the greatest albums of all time!

Classic album. No bad songs.

Absolutely stunning.

Plays like a greatest hits compilation, crazy that all of these songs are on one album.

All bangers, all the time. Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow.

Classic

NO NOTES

Absolute all time greatest album. I think maybe 2 songs on this masterpiece are not immediately iconic. The Chain is the song id kill to listen to again for the first time. Absolutely wild.

Yea man all time classic yeah man this is the dream aww yeah

A near perfect album for me. It does have a couple tracks that I find to be a little weaker, but still not bad songs by a long shot. The hits make up for any weakness in spades as well. Knowing the group's messy dynamics adds an interesting layer to the lyrics as well as you wonder which songs are about who, if they even are. Aside from that I have always been a fan of the pairing of the lyrics with the sound. For me this holds up as one of the greatest albums, so an easy 5 star.

YES!!!! Now I don’t look forward to the rest of the albums of this week. It’s Monday and this can not be topped.

A classic Gold Dust Woman is my favourite - would have liked Silver Springs on the album but GDW works better as a closer

iconic, no notes

Excellent album been in my collection for years. Every sone great on it feel the riff between Stevie and Lyndsey and the riffs in the tracks. The chain is iconic

One of my favorite albums of all time.

Topalbum

When former lovers Play lost love songs together The pain resonates

no brainer

I literally can’t wrap my head around the fact that this generated. And I feel so basic for enjoying this but honestly I’d rather be basic than wrong. Every single member of the band shines on this album because even though it was the worst period of their relationships, they put all of that into the music with full honesty and commitment to the album. Stevie Nicks arguably shines the brightest on this album, and I’d have to argue that this album has her best songwriting with FM (I mean Dreams? Gold Dust Woman? Silver Springs even though it’s not on the standard edition???) But that also makes me so pissed that they didn’t include Tango in the Night on this list so listeners could really understand the magic that Lindsay Buckingham and Christine McVie brought to the table as a songwriting duo (although you get a taste of that on Don’t Stop). But you get a sense of the full group’s genius on their (imo) magnum opus, The Chain. And Christine shines as a writer in Songbird and also as a keyboardist in You Make Loving Fun, and Lindsay shines as a writer in Go Your Own Way and as a guitar player in Never Going Back Again. I don’t play drums or bass so I am less attuned to the successfulness of John McVie or Mick Fleetwood but John’s bass on Dreams and The Chain is really great and Mick’s drumming on Dreams and Go Your Own Way really make the songs for me. To anyone listening to this album and reading this, my next wish is for you to watch their live concert filmed in 1997 after they reunited briefly called The Dance. There are versions of it on YouTube and the album is on Spotify. But it is just phenomenal how much chemistry this band has and how successfully they were able to channel it all into such great music. If there are live albums on this list I truly cannot wrap my head around why The Dance isn’t on this list but whatever. Maybe I’m just a fangirl. Anyways I love Fleetwood Mac so much and as much as I love Rumours and it 1000% deserves to be here, I also wish there were a few more FM albums on this list, namely their 1975 self titled and Tango (and these should maybe replace Tusk?? I love Tusk but it feels like a weird pick). I’m a weird fan of Mirage as well even though I don’t think it belongs here but I really encourage people to listen past Gypsy (still a great song tho). Suffice it to say this is a no skip album (yes, even Oh Daddy), and not just me, but everyone should hear this before they die. It’s rare that I have that sentiment but I just feel like this band changed the face of music with this album. And even putting the context of it aside, it is stunningly written, arranged, and produced. There’s a reason why this is a textbook example of great music.

as of today, "rumours" by fleetwood mac is currently the highest rated album on the 1001 albums tracker website, and for good reason. aesthetically rich and near-perfect in production, this is an essential soft rock album. every song is a hit. peppy, expressive and radiant and with a mixture of both acoustic and electronic elements, this album is a perfect window to the relationships and thoughts surrounding the band, and many songs express emotions between members. stevie nicks has the voice of a goddess.

Not my all time favourite album but well-deserving of a 5. Definitely biased though since I grew up listening to Fleetwood Mac.

Obviously one of the greatest of all time ever. Yes, yes, yes - everyone knows the backstory, and it's been in the Top 10 selling albums for a billion weeks and Bill Clinton etc but COME ON. For me, this is John's album more than anything. As Mick says in one of the (many) documentaries "the man is a whole band on his own there". But remove any one of the parts, and it couldn't possibly be the same. And kids, if your parents tell you "don't do drugs" (and, you should probably not, but anyway) point at this album for evidence of shovelling as much fine grade Colombian up your hooter as you can.

10/10 album. One of the greatest albums of all time.

Słuchałam już wcześniej, znałam też i lubiłam wszystkie piosenki osobno, ale teraz zagłębiłam się w całość i poczytałam więcej o perypetiach wokół powstawania albumu. Jak to nie implodowalo - nie wiem. Ale wyszło im naprawdę coś świetnego. Autostrada hitów. Wszystkie piosenki są tak dobre, że żadnej się nie przeskakuje. Szkoda, że "Silver Springs" nie znalazło się na oryginalnym wydaniu, bo to naprawdę mocny utwór. "Gold Dust Woman" mi jakoś dobrze weszło tym razem. Eh, chciałabym umieć pisać o muzyce.

Wow. What an album. Deservedly the second ranked out of all the albums on the global ranking. Each song well refined, well recorded, and well thought through. In the midst of nearly killing each other, they managed to somehow all shine through, pitching in a piece of their creativity into each and every song. It refrains from being repetitive but still has that nature in which it weaves together into one large project. Based here, but my favorite just has to be Dreams. Such an iconic song. I won't be surprised if it has a resurgance in popularity with teens (if it hasn't already) just like Iris by The goo goo dolls. 10/10.

A classic

Obrigado Senhor do Meme por nos resgatar essa obra maravilhosa!

People could make the argument that this album/band is overrated, but I'd say it's properly rated right as it should be. 6 all timer singles, plus 5 "deep cuts" that hold up to the big tracks. Though not perfect in my opinion as I don't really care for Songbird or Oh Daddy, I think the rest of the songs more than make up for the 2 I usually end up skipping to warrant a 5 stars.

I mean, it's Rumours? What can you really say that hasn't already been said about one of the best albums of all time? I've listened to this album plenty of times, but listening to it with a critical ear I did sort of wonder how "Oh Daddy" made the cut over "Silver Springs," and "Don't Stop" seems so different compared to all the other songs lyrically, and actually I think would have been better served at the end, but those are my two main criticisms. Even with that being said, the album is still brilliant. "Second Hand News" is a perfect opener to this album, and literally every song after practically perfect. Knowing how dysfunctional the band was at the time, it's almost shocking they were able to put together something so iconic. Possibly the best album ever to play after a break up. I like to pretend "Silver Springs" is the last track after "Gold Dust Woman," even though it's not part of the official album track list. If it was, I'd put it before "Gold Dust Woman," which I think is just an absolutely brilliant closing song for the album and wraps everything up perfectly. Okay, I guess I had a lot to say, but this album is just so stacked. Not a weak track here, and the band is at their best. One of the easiest 5 star ratings I've given.

Come on now. 1st one. Listened to 1000 times. Alright lets do it again.

Every track a banger! Such a classic album.

Comparteixen un petit llenguatge privat, l'omplen d'amor i ressentiment, i desemboca en un àlbum per la història. Sense Rumours no seria el que sóc.

When I listen to an album like Rumours I ask myself, "does music get better than this?" Seriously, does it? The instrumental arrangements, performances, tones, mixes, melodies, and grooves are all perfect. This album deserves all the accolades, acclaim, and commercial success it has.

Fantastic! 5/5

Great

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

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.

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.

a 10. not even a question. cocaine fueled angst to a backdrop of smooth rock.

beautiful. genius.

AMAZING ALBUM

jees

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.

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

Songbird

Fantastic album, front to back. Easy 5.

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.

A great album!

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.

A long-time favorite.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Could double as Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits album. Pretty much every song is practically a household name.

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 👌🏻

Wouldn't have called myself a Fleetwood Mac fan but there's too many good songs on here to not give it a 5

One of the best albums ever.

This album is an all timer. Every song is good. Production is great. It never misses.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

Really good album. Enjoyable listen. Songs changed it up just enough to keep it interesting.

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

The context for the album itself deemed it’s greatness, very very catchy.

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

funsies

Classic, 10/10, nothing more I can say

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.