About the song
“The Chain,” a powerful track by Fleetwood Mac, stands out as a unique creation in their vast catalog. Released in 1977 as part of their iconic album Rumours, it’s the only song on the record credited to all five band members: Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Christine McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, and Stevie Nicks. This fact alone hints at the collaborative and somewhat tumultuous process behind its creation. Unlike their other songs, “The Chain” wasn’t born from a single songwriter, but rather a patchwork of different musical ideas pieced together, reflecting the complex relationships within the band at the time.
The song is characterized by its distinctive, driving bassline, powerful guitar riffs, and the soaring vocals of both Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham. Its lyrics touch upon themes of fractured relationships and the enduring ties that bind people, which mirrors the interpersonal dynamics within Fleetwood Mac. “The Chain” moves through various sections, from a haunting and melancholic opening to an explosive, anthemic finish, making it an emotionally charged listening experience.
While “The Chain” was never released as a single on its own, its importance to the album Rumours and its role as a concert staple have cemented its place in rock history. Rumours itself is one of the best-selling albums of all time, winning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1978. Although “The Chain” didn’t win individual awards, its contribution to the overall success of Rumours is undeniable. Its iconic bass line and powerful chorus have made it instantly recognizable, often featured in movies, television shows, and commercials.
The song has become a favorite among fans and critics alike, frequently cited as one of Fleetwood Mac’s best works and a defining track of the 1970s rock era. It’s a dynamic and enduring piece of music, showcasing the band’s incredible talent and their ability to create something truly remarkable from individual parts. “The Chain” isn’t just a song; it’s a testament to the band’s resilience and creative genius, a musical embodiment of the complexities of human relationships and a reminder of their lasting impact on rock music.
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Lyrics
Listen to the wind blow, watch the sun rise
Running in the shadows, damn your love, damn your lies
And if you don’t love me now
You will never love me again
I can still hear you saying
You would never break the chain (never break the chain)
And if you don’t love me now (you don’t love me now)
You will never love me again
I can still hear you saying (still hear you saying)
You would never break the chain (never break the chain)
Listen to the wind blow, down comes the night
Running in the shadows, damn your love, damn your lies
Break the silence, damn the dark, damn the light
And if you don’t love me now
You will never love me again
I can still hear you saying
You would never break the chain (never break the chain)
And if you don’t love me now (you don’t love me now)
You will never love me again
I can still hear you saying (still hear you saying)
You would never break the chain (never break the chain)
And if you don’t love me now (you don’t love me now)
You will never love me again
I can still hear you saying (still hear you saying)
You would never break the chain (never break the chain)
Chain keep us together (running in the shadow)
Chain keep us together (running in the shadow)
Chain keep us together (running in the shadow)
Chain keep us together (running in the shadow)
Chain keep us together (running in the shadow)
Chain