Fleetwood Mac, a British-American rock band formed in 1967, has etched its name into music history through their distinctive blend of blues, rock, and pop. Achieving mainstream success in the mid-1970s with their album “Rumours,” a record brimming with personal turmoil and undeniable hooks, Fleetwood Mac solidified their place as a powerhouse. Their accolades include multiple Grammy Awards, a BRIT Award, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Consistently topping Billboard charts, their albums have sold millions worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music acts of all time.
In 1979, Fleetwood Mac challenged expectations with the release of “Tusk,” the title track and second single from their ambitious and experimental album of the same name. Penned by Lindsey Buckingham, “Tusk” is a stark departure from the band’s smoother, more polished sound. Its unconventional instrumentation, featuring the USC Trojan Marching Band alongside the core band members, creates a raw and almost primal atmosphere. The song is generally interpreted as an exploration of raw, unbridled energy and primal instincts, moving away from the introspective heartbreak that defined much of their earlier work. Buckingham himself described the song as an attempt to embrace the “irrational,” a deliberate move away from the commercial pressures of following up “Rumours.”
Upon release, “Tusk” sparked considerable debate. Some critics lauded its daring creativity and willingness to break with convention, appreciating the song’s experimental spirit. Others found its cacophony unsettling and considered it a misstep. While commercially successful, reaching the top ten in the US and UK, audience reaction was equally divided. Some fans embraced the song’s boldness, viewing it as a testament to the band’s artistic integrity. Others, accustomed to the band’s signature polished sound, found it jarring and difficult to connect with. “Tusk,” therefore, remains a fascinating and controversial piece in Fleetwood Mac’s discography, a testament to their willingness to push boundaries and challenge their audience.