Fleetwood Mac: Here’s How Mick Fleetwood Became One Of The Best Drummers In The World

Mick Fleetwood, a legendary name in rock and roll, stands as a living example of the power of perseverance and passion. Born on June 24, 1947, in Cornwall, England, Fleetwood rose to fame as the drummer and co-founder of the legendary band Fleetwood Mac. The band’s unique blend of rock and blues and Fleetwood’s distinctive drumming style have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Fleetwood Mac‘s most notable works include the albums Rumors, Tusk, and Fleetwood Mac, which have collectively sold over 100 million copies worldwide.

Mick Fleetwood’s contributions to music have earned him several accolades, including a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As of 2023, Fleetwood’s net worth stands at an impressive $30 million.

The Birth Of Fleetwood Mac

Born in Redruth, Cornwall, Michael John Kells Fleetwood demonstrated musical talent early on. Born into a military family, Mick moved frequently during his early years, making establishing roots challenging. However, these experiences also exposed him to diverse musical influences, which would later shape his unique drumming style. At 15, Fleetwood dropped out of school and moved to London to pursue his passion for drumming. He started playing with local blues bands and eventually joined the Cheynes with future Fleetwood Mac guitarist Peter Green.

RELATED: How Elvis Presley Became The ‘King’ Of Rock And Roll

In 1967, Green left to form his group and invited Fleetwood to be the drummer. They named the band Fleetwood Mac after Mick and their bassist John McVie. Early incarnations of Fleetwood Mac played a raw, blues-infused rock style and released albums like Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac and Me. Wonderful. As a talented drummer with a towering 6’6″ stature, Fleetwood became an imposing presence behind the kit and developed his energetic performing style.

Mick Fleetwood’s drumming style, informed by his love of blues music, gave Fleetwood Mac its rhythmic sensibilities. His dynamic playing and a firm sense of groove can be heard on smashes like Rhiannon and Don’t Stop. While not the frontman, Fleetwood was the band’s unofficial leader and mediator.

A Glamorous Career In Music

Fleetwood Mac achieved their big breakthrough in 1975 after undergoing lineup changes. With the addition of singer Stevie Nicks and guitarist Lindsey Buckingham, the band’s sound shifted to a more pop-oriented style. Their second self-titled album, Fleetwood Mac, reached No. 1 on the charts and sold over 5 million copies.

The follow-up album, Rumours, was even more successful. According to BSA, it sold a whopping 40 million copies worldwide, making it one of the highest-selling albums ever. Fleetwood’s innovative drumming was crucial to iconic tracks like Dreams and Go Your Own Way. However, the recording of Rumours was plagued by relationship breakups and heavy drug use within the band.

Fleetwood went through a divorce and an affair with Stevie Nicks during the making of Rumours. The romantic dysfunction fueled the album’s raw lyrics and emotional intensity. More relationship troubles occurred during the recording of their 1979 album Tusk, which still managed to sell 4 million copies. During this phase, Fleetwood struggled with substance abuse, which took a toll on his personal life and finances.

According to Rolling Stone, Mick Fleetwood’s extravagant lifestyle led to bankruptcy in 1984, despite the band’s massive earnings. However, Fleetwood’s resilience saw him through these difficult times. He rebuilt his finances, and by the late 1990s, Fleetwood Mac was back on top, with their album The Dance reaching number one on the US charts.

The Elation Of Their Establishments

In addition to his work with Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood has pursued side projects over the years. In 1981, he collaborated with guitarist Todd Rundgren, bassist John McVie, and singer Stevie Nicks to form the Zoo. He also led Mick Fleetwood’s Zoo and the Mick Fleetwood Band, allowing him to explore his love of New Orleans jazz and blues.

As a co-founder of one the history’s most successful rock bands, Mick Fleetwood has amassed an immense fortune over his long career. Fleetwood Mac has sold over 130 million records globally, placing them firmly among the best-selling music acts of all time. Among Fleetwood Mac‘s many accolades are 5 Grammy Awards, inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, and a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music.

Apart from unparalleled album sales, Mick Fleetwood has earned millions due to the extensive tours of Fleetwood Mac. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Fleetwood’s current net worth stands at an impressive $30 Million. Most of his wealth comes from Fleetwood Mac’s record sales and touring revenue. Fleetwood has also profited from solo recordings, acting gigs, and business ventures like his restaurant, ‘ Fleetwood’s on Front St.’ Additionally, he earns royalties from Fleetwood Mac‘s radio play and licensing deals.

Mick Fleetwood’s journey from humble beginnings to rock superstardom is an inspirational story of passion, perseverance, and creative vision. His rhythmic skill and fearless leadership steered Fleetwood Mac through ever-changing lineups and personal turmoil to become one of history’s most impactful bands. Beyond his musical legacy, Fleetwood will be remembered for keeping his band together against all odds. Now in his 70s and still drumming, Mick Fleetwood has earned his place among rock’s greatest legends.

READ NEXT: These Are Kim Cattrall’s Highest-Grossing Movies And TV Shows

Sources – Celebrity Net Worth, Rolling Stone, BSA, Grunge

Source: Read Full Article