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Don't Stop: Why We (Still) Love Fleetwood Mac's Rumours
The author of The Holy or the Broken and former editor-in-chief of Vibe brings his “thoughtful and illuminating” (The New York Times) insight to Fleetwood Mac’s iconic album Rumours, celebrating its story, mythology, and enduring impact.
On January 1, 1975, struggling young singer-songwriter Lindsey Buckingham was invited to join the veteran blues band Fleetwood Mac. He agreed on the condition that his girlfriend, an equally unknown vocalist named Stevie Nicks, also be included. Within two years, Rumours was born—and went on to become one of the most popular albums of all time.
Almost five decades later, it is the only classic rock record that still attracts young listeners and continues to top sales and streaming charts. In Don’t Stop, award-winning journalist and bestselling author Alan Light unravels the enduring allure of Fleetwood Mac’s monumental album. Since its 1977 release, Rumours has captivated generations with its unparalleled blend of romantic turmoil and musical genius. Light explores the album’s transformation from a pop phenomenon to a cultural touchstone, and its unique ability to remain relevant in today’s rapidly changing music scene.
Drawing on in-depth interviews with current artists inspired by Fleetwood Mac, as well as fans who have only recently discovered the album, Light investigates what keep Rumours at the forefront of popular culture, from Glee to Saturday Night Live to Daisy Jones & the Six. Through insightful analysis and storytelling, Don’t Stop celebrates the album’s trail blazing sound and diverse voices, and the emotional depth that continues to fascinate audiences. From the incredible soap opera behind the album’s creation to its embrace in the age of TikTok, this book presents a kaleidoscopic view of a landmark work that has transcended its time.
On January 1, 1975, struggling young singer-songwriter Lindsey Buckingham was invited to join the veteran blues band Fleetwood Mac. He agreed on the condition that his girlfriend, an equally unknown vocalist named Stevie Nicks, also be included. Within two years, Rumours was born—and went on to become one of the most popular albums of all time.
Almost five decades later, it is the only classic rock record that still attracts young listeners and continues to top sales and streaming charts. In Don’t Stop, award-winning journalist and bestselling author Alan Light unravels the enduring allure of Fleetwood Mac’s monumental album. Since its 1977 release, Rumours has captivated generations with its unparalleled blend of romantic turmoil and musical genius. Light explores the album’s transformation from a pop phenomenon to a cultural touchstone, and its unique ability to remain relevant in today’s rapidly changing music scene.
Drawing on in-depth interviews with current artists inspired by Fleetwood Mac, as well as fans who have only recently discovered the album, Light investigates what keep Rumours at the forefront of popular culture, from Glee to Saturday Night Live to Daisy Jones & the Six. Through insightful analysis and storytelling, Don’t Stop celebrates the album’s trail blazing sound and diverse voices, and the emotional depth that continues to fascinate audiences. From the incredible soap opera behind the album’s creation to its embrace in the age of TikTok, this book presents a kaleidoscopic view of a landmark work that has transcended its time.
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First published November 4, 2025
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About the author
Alan Light
25 books72 followersA veteran music journalist, Alan Light is the author of The Holy or the Broken: Leonard Cohen, Jeff Buckley and the Unlikely Ascent of "Hallelujah" and Let's Go Crazy: Prince and the Making of Purple Rain. Light was previously the editor-in-chief of Vibe and Spin and a senior writer for Rolling Stone. He is also a frequent contributor to the New York Times.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
November 24, 2025
ARC for review. To be published November 4, 2025.
4 stars
“Rumours” is one of the top selling albums of all time, both in the U.S. and worldwide, but the amazing thing is how it has remained relevant over the years. On August 31, 2024 on the Billboard Top 200 albums there were only about nine classic rock albums represented. All were greatest hits selections (for example, Queen, CCR, Elton John) EXCEPT “Rumours,” Fleetwood Mac’s own “Greatest Hits” was down in the 170s.
The album was recorded throughout 1976 and was released February 4, 1977. Most people know the lore around it, Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks were going through a tumultuous breakup, John and Christine McVie were ending their marriage, Mick Fleetwood was ending his marriage and Stevie and Mick were having an affair (I did not know Christine was seeing one of the crew members, but she was.). So most of the songs in the album were written and recorded in the context of all that angst.
The author goes through each song on the album (including “Silver Springs” and if you’ve never seen the 1997 full band performance of this song where Stevie is…well, I’m going to go with literally staring holes into Lindsey’s eyeballs straight down to his very soul you must stop reading this and go watch it RIGHT NOW. As the T-shirt reads, “Taylor might write songs about her old boyfriends, but Stevie makes them sing backup.”)
In each chapter the author also interviews The Youth Of Today to get their reactions to the song, because The Youth Of Today live themself some “Rumours,” whether it’s because they saw the “Glee” “Rumours” episode or they learned that “Daisy Jones and the Six” was loosely inspired by Fleetwood Mac or because of the ever present cult of Stevie. Anyway, the book is a great way to revisit this great album which still holds up so, so well. Make sure you have your copy handy because you’ll want to play portions as you read this enjoyable book.
4 stars
“Rumours” is one of the top selling albums of all time, both in the U.S. and worldwide, but the amazing thing is how it has remained relevant over the years. On August 31, 2024 on the Billboard Top 200 albums there were only about nine classic rock albums represented. All were greatest hits selections (for example, Queen, CCR, Elton John) EXCEPT “Rumours,” Fleetwood Mac’s own “Greatest Hits” was down in the 170s.
The album was recorded throughout 1976 and was released February 4, 1977. Most people know the lore around it, Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks were going through a tumultuous breakup, John and Christine McVie were ending their marriage, Mick Fleetwood was ending his marriage and Stevie and Mick were having an affair (I did not know Christine was seeing one of the crew members, but she was.). So most of the songs in the album were written and recorded in the context of all that angst.
The author goes through each song on the album (including “Silver Springs” and if you’ve never seen the 1997 full band performance of this song where Stevie is…well, I’m going to go with literally staring holes into Lindsey’s eyeballs straight down to his very soul you must stop reading this and go watch it RIGHT NOW. As the T-shirt reads, “Taylor might write songs about her old boyfriends, but Stevie makes them sing backup.”)
In each chapter the author also interviews The Youth Of Today to get their reactions to the song, because The Youth Of Today live themself some “Rumours,” whether it’s because they saw the “Glee” “Rumours” episode or they learned that “Daisy Jones and the Six” was loosely inspired by Fleetwood Mac or because of the ever present cult of Stevie. Anyway, the book is a great way to revisit this great album which still holds up so, so well. Make sure you have your copy handy because you’ll want to play portions as you read this enjoyable book.
February 1, 2026
"To songwriter-producer Julian Bunetta, the album maintains a perfect sense of balance that crosses all tastes. 'There's nothing about it that's too polarizing,' he says. 'There's not too much distortion, there's not too much synth, it's not too this or that. Where other records might get too jammy or too guitar-y or have too many solos, Rumours doesn't have any of that. It doesn't ever lean too heavy or too light. It's not too yacht rock, it's not too ballad-y. It never gets pigeonholed, because it never leans too far any type of way." -- page 200
Speaking of balance, I think that's where author Light's Don't Stop: Why We (Still) Love Fleetwood Mac's 'Rumours' started to go off-kilter for me with its shift in tone or content. While it begins well enough with an obligatory but condensed history of the band - not bad for being refined to a mere fifty-plus pages - and then offers relatively short but often interesting chapters on each track of the blockbuster 1977 album (plus the celebrated B-side 'Silver Springs'), it increasingly seemed like the narrative overly relied on oft-glowing opinions of average ordinary 'Gen-Z' folks interviewed by the author, as well as quickly tiresome repeat mentions of streaming / downloading numbers that will probably be meaningless if you're simply here for the music. (The Baby Boomers and/or Gen-X set with their well-worn vinyl and CD copies need not apply, apparently.) To horribly attempt to draw an analogy, it was like showing up with the expectation of seeing the legendary act perform in concert, only to discover that it is really karaoke night with members of the public covering the songs.
Speaking of balance, I think that's where author Light's Don't Stop: Why We (Still) Love Fleetwood Mac's 'Rumours' started to go off-kilter for me with its shift in tone or content. While it begins well enough with an obligatory but condensed history of the band - not bad for being refined to a mere fifty-plus pages - and then offers relatively short but often interesting chapters on each track of the blockbuster 1977 album (plus the celebrated B-side 'Silver Springs'), it increasingly seemed like the narrative overly relied on oft-glowing opinions of average ordinary 'Gen-Z' folks interviewed by the author, as well as quickly tiresome repeat mentions of streaming / downloading numbers that will probably be meaningless if you're simply here for the music. (The Baby Boomers and/or Gen-X set with their well-worn vinyl and CD copies need not apply, apparently.) To horribly attempt to draw an analogy, it was like showing up with the expectation of seeing the legendary act perform in concert, only to discover that it is really karaoke night with members of the public covering the songs.
November 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ — Don’t Stop by Alan Light
Yes, Rumours is an awesome album. No argument there. Alan Light—a seasoned rock journalist—has put together a breezy, enjoyable look back at Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 masterpiece. And yes, boys and girls, that’s almost 50 years ago! I’m proud (and slightly amused) to say I remember when it first hit the radio airwaves. As a middle schooler, though, I wasn’t exactly tuning into the Mac. I was too busy blasting Frampton Comes Alive while skateboarding in the driveway.
Light approaches the subject like the journalist he is: competent, clear, and fan-friendly. This isn’t a groundbreaking deep dive, but rather a fun, run-of-the-mill celebration of one of the greatest albums ever made. He breaks down the track list one song at a time, uncovering some genuinely interesting nuggets. (Did you know multiple songs on Rumours have cracked a billion downloads? Wild.)
Along the way, Light tackles the big question: why is Rumours even more popular now than ever? A big part of the answer is one word—Stevie. Name a woman in rock with more staying power. She’s a social-media-savvy icon, a mentor for new generations, and—yes—she has her own Barbie doll. Add in the band’s legendary breakups, makeups, and melodrama, plus the whole Daisy Jones & the Six cultural glow-up, and you’ve got a myth that just won’t quit. Rumors is also unique because you women and men writing, steering, collaborating and playing great music together. So rare for that time. The drama of the breakups was a big part of today’s success.
I enjoyed the book, though I’ll admit the exhaustive song-by-song breakdown drags in places. Still, I learned quite a bit about a band I’ve always admired and an album that refuses to age. And now, when I skateboard (okay, ride my bike) around the neighborhood, I crank Rumours with a whole new appreciation.
A fun, nostalgic read for Fleetwood Mac fans—and for anyone who still remembers when these tunes first ruled the airwaves.
Audible version
Yes, Rumours is an awesome album. No argument there. Alan Light—a seasoned rock journalist—has put together a breezy, enjoyable look back at Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 masterpiece. And yes, boys and girls, that’s almost 50 years ago! I’m proud (and slightly amused) to say I remember when it first hit the radio airwaves. As a middle schooler, though, I wasn’t exactly tuning into the Mac. I was too busy blasting Frampton Comes Alive while skateboarding in the driveway.
Light approaches the subject like the journalist he is: competent, clear, and fan-friendly. This isn’t a groundbreaking deep dive, but rather a fun, run-of-the-mill celebration of one of the greatest albums ever made. He breaks down the track list one song at a time, uncovering some genuinely interesting nuggets. (Did you know multiple songs on Rumours have cracked a billion downloads? Wild.)
Along the way, Light tackles the big question: why is Rumours even more popular now than ever? A big part of the answer is one word—Stevie. Name a woman in rock with more staying power. She’s a social-media-savvy icon, a mentor for new generations, and—yes—she has her own Barbie doll. Add in the band’s legendary breakups, makeups, and melodrama, plus the whole Daisy Jones & the Six cultural glow-up, and you’ve got a myth that just won’t quit. Rumors is also unique because you women and men writing, steering, collaborating and playing great music together. So rare for that time. The drama of the breakups was a big part of today’s success.
I enjoyed the book, though I’ll admit the exhaustive song-by-song breakdown drags in places. Still, I learned quite a bit about a band I’ve always admired and an album that refuses to age. And now, when I skateboard (okay, ride my bike) around the neighborhood, I crank Rumours with a whole new appreciation.
A fun, nostalgic read for Fleetwood Mac fans—and for anyone who still remembers when these tunes first ruled the airwaves.
Audible version
January 16, 2026
** 1/16/26 ** For "older" readers who existed pre-internet, pre-DVR, pre-cellphones, even pre-remote control, there are those of us who remember entertainment on demand as the act of playing an album. And there was no album more iconic in the 77-78 season than Rumours. It was a must-have album, much like the Saturday Night Fever album (also 77), or Grease album (78). EVERYONE had it and/or listened to it. It literally shaped the end of the boomer/beginning of Gen X world. And I still listen to it today.
So when I was offered this book to review by NetGalley (thank you NetGalley, as always!), I jumped. Alan Light's book is a deeeeep dive into the beginning of the band and each song on the album. It is written very factually and detailed. I loved the history/stories of how the band formed the very best. I find it a little scary how serendipitous certain paths to greatness occur (like this band/album), and how close the world is to never having had them. Just goes to show you, take the risks, you never know.
Overall, the depth of information in the book beyond the origin story made it feel a little dry / research paper vibe. Kind of like it was written by that hard-core band fan you meet at a party who knows every single factoid about a group, and you're the one listening to them talk thinking, well, that kind of ruins the vibe for me, since I really just loves the songs, but now I feel like an inept and superficial fan. That was me reading this book, feeling almost guilty that I couldn't stay interested in every nuance of the music and process. But it is a well-researched book, and a big win for the most passionate fans and those who truly appreciate the deep dive into the band's history for this album. Research / facts: 5/5. Personal interest for me alone: 3/5 as it was just too much information for this fan.
So when I was offered this book to review by NetGalley (thank you NetGalley, as always!), I jumped. Alan Light's book is a deeeeep dive into the beginning of the band and each song on the album. It is written very factually and detailed. I loved the history/stories of how the band formed the very best. I find it a little scary how serendipitous certain paths to greatness occur (like this band/album), and how close the world is to never having had them. Just goes to show you, take the risks, you never know.
Overall, the depth of information in the book beyond the origin story made it feel a little dry / research paper vibe. Kind of like it was written by that hard-core band fan you meet at a party who knows every single factoid about a group, and you're the one listening to them talk thinking, well, that kind of ruins the vibe for me, since I really just loves the songs, but now I feel like an inept and superficial fan. That was me reading this book, feeling almost guilty that I couldn't stay interested in every nuance of the music and process. But it is a well-researched book, and a big win for the most passionate fans and those who truly appreciate the deep dive into the band's history for this album. Research / facts: 5/5. Personal interest for me alone: 3/5 as it was just too much information for this fan.
November 5, 2025
There is an uncanny appeal and mysticism to musical legends. We can experience this with other art forms as well, but I feel that musicians are different: they have the fame and the larger-than-life lifestyle—being that akin to what actors/actresses experience. Many write their songs and thrive on live performing; add in the tactile experience of holding a mic or instrument in your hands, and you have an artistry package that encompasses many outlets. Really, a musician has it all.
Music is a form of expression that is transcendental. It transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. What would a wedding be without music? A movie? A favorite TV show? Not to mention events that are centered around music—live concerts, musicals, and ballet. Where would we be without lullabies?
Personally, I have always had a conflicted relationship with music. While raised on gospel music and Lawrence Welk, I wasn't often permitted to listen to secular music as a young child, and with no cable growing up, I missed out on much of the MTV experience in the 80s. It's a strange thing, because I was permitted to play the piano (my mother and grandfather played), and even took lessons for several years. After much begging, I was also granted permission to play the saxophone in Middle and High School. No chorus though; singing wasn't allowed.
I have still struggled as an adult to form heartfelt relationships with different artists, having fleeting interests in one or the other and then forgetting about them or losing interest. It wasn't until my divorce 6 years ago that I started listening to my musical genes, and that's when I started FEELING music, deep down, in that magical warm-fuzzy place we all have.
Fleetwood Mac was a band I have heard of casually; knowledge—minimum. I wasn't aware of the turmoil, the conflict, the love, the breakups and makeups, and the Clash-of-Titans personalities that were behind the individuals comprising the band. I knew who Stevie Nicks was; she had been in "American Horror Story" and was the artist behind songs I had heard in movies and on TV. Possibly my first introduction to her was from her song from the 1998 movie, "Practical Magic," with Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock. (And just so happens to be the movie I saw on the first date with my ex-husband.) But "If You Ever Did Believe" from the movie, sung by Stevie, was a song that stuck with me for a long time. After reading Don't Stop, my mind has been blown wide open, and this is what I love about reading. Learning what I didn't know before. What a fascinating history there is to be found behind this legendary band.
I find biography books can oftentimes be dull and boring, feeling a need to "stick to a script" of the subject's life. This is not the scenario in Don't Stop. Alan Light pulls from so many resources; I was so impressed by the extent of the knowledge presented. He interviews people young and old, includes quotes, articles, and interviews from mainstream sources with the various band members, and truly makes this book a joy to read.
Our book starts out with a history of the band, which I appreciated as one who is not really familiar at all with Fleetwood Mac over the years. AL then goes beyond that history and breaks down each song from the unforgettable album, Rumours. There are individual chapters chronicling the history of each song; also incorporated are how these songs are pertinent to today's listeners and the lasting impact they have had. We hear about the "Dreams" TikTok viral video, the DJ duo Fleetmac Wood, Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign with "Don't Stop" stealing the show, how "Silver Springs" influenced TJR to write "Daisy Jones and the Six," and parodies on SNL involving "I Don't Want to Know." There's so much more, but I don't want to give it all away.
A crucial tip—have the Rumours album handy; I found this essential to appreciating this book even further. At the start of each "song" chapter, I first listened to the song that was being addressed, then read. It gave a deeper connection to what I was engaging with in the writing. (I'll admit I have never listened to the entire album before this.)
Also, I attribute my growing affinity for reading books with music subject matter to Hanif Abdurraqib (after reading They Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us earlier this year) as well as Patti Smith (Just Kids, also read this year). These books opened my eyes to something new, and for that I am grateful.
If any Fleetwood Mac songs have ever had an impact on your life, you will appreciate this book. If you're like me and have a minimal music education, reading Don't Stop was enlightening. Instead of a "movie-cation" (quote from Pitch Perfect, look it up), I need a musi-cation. I'm working on it. For you, read on, and don't stop believing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ebook ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. I loved it!
Music is a form of expression that is transcendental. It transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. What would a wedding be without music? A movie? A favorite TV show? Not to mention events that are centered around music—live concerts, musicals, and ballet. Where would we be without lullabies?
Personally, I have always had a conflicted relationship with music. While raised on gospel music and Lawrence Welk, I wasn't often permitted to listen to secular music as a young child, and with no cable growing up, I missed out on much of the MTV experience in the 80s. It's a strange thing, because I was permitted to play the piano (my mother and grandfather played), and even took lessons for several years. After much begging, I was also granted permission to play the saxophone in Middle and High School. No chorus though; singing wasn't allowed.
I have still struggled as an adult to form heartfelt relationships with different artists, having fleeting interests in one or the other and then forgetting about them or losing interest. It wasn't until my divorce 6 years ago that I started listening to my musical genes, and that's when I started FEELING music, deep down, in that magical warm-fuzzy place we all have.
Fleetwood Mac was a band I have heard of casually; knowledge—minimum. I wasn't aware of the turmoil, the conflict, the love, the breakups and makeups, and the Clash-of-Titans personalities that were behind the individuals comprising the band. I knew who Stevie Nicks was; she had been in "American Horror Story" and was the artist behind songs I had heard in movies and on TV. Possibly my first introduction to her was from her song from the 1998 movie, "Practical Magic," with Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock. (And just so happens to be the movie I saw on the first date with my ex-husband.) But "If You Ever Did Believe" from the movie, sung by Stevie, was a song that stuck with me for a long time. After reading Don't Stop, my mind has been blown wide open, and this is what I love about reading. Learning what I didn't know before. What a fascinating history there is to be found behind this legendary band.
I find biography books can oftentimes be dull and boring, feeling a need to "stick to a script" of the subject's life. This is not the scenario in Don't Stop. Alan Light pulls from so many resources; I was so impressed by the extent of the knowledge presented. He interviews people young and old, includes quotes, articles, and interviews from mainstream sources with the various band members, and truly makes this book a joy to read.
Our book starts out with a history of the band, which I appreciated as one who is not really familiar at all with Fleetwood Mac over the years. AL then goes beyond that history and breaks down each song from the unforgettable album, Rumours. There are individual chapters chronicling the history of each song; also incorporated are how these songs are pertinent to today's listeners and the lasting impact they have had. We hear about the "Dreams" TikTok viral video, the DJ duo Fleetmac Wood, Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign with "Don't Stop" stealing the show, how "Silver Springs" influenced TJR to write "Daisy Jones and the Six," and parodies on SNL involving "I Don't Want to Know." There's so much more, but I don't want to give it all away.
A crucial tip—have the Rumours album handy; I found this essential to appreciating this book even further. At the start of each "song" chapter, I first listened to the song that was being addressed, then read. It gave a deeper connection to what I was engaging with in the writing. (I'll admit I have never listened to the entire album before this.)
Also, I attribute my growing affinity for reading books with music subject matter to Hanif Abdurraqib (after reading They Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us earlier this year) as well as Patti Smith (Just Kids, also read this year). These books opened my eyes to something new, and for that I am grateful.
If any Fleetwood Mac songs have ever had an impact on your life, you will appreciate this book. If you're like me and have a minimal music education, reading Don't Stop was enlightening. Instead of a "movie-cation" (quote from Pitch Perfect, look it up), I need a musi-cation. I'm working on it. For you, read on, and don't stop believing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ebook ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. I loved it!
November 5, 2025
Rumors by Fleetwood Mac is one of the best-selling and most loved albums of all time, and this is a look at the drama behind the scenes with analysis on why the music is still so popular today. It's informative and insightful with a breezy tone, and I had a great time reading it!
This is non-fiction with great storytelling and a nostalgic vibe. Rumors was born during intense interpersonal turmoil and wild times within the band. One of the most iconic break-up albums ever, the band poured a lot of emotional honesty into the music, and this book lets you in on the dramatic context behind each song.
Light's writing is engaging as he goes "track by track" through the album, discussing what was going on behind the scenes that impacted each track, with anecdotes, insights, and interviews with other musicians, producers, and fans. I knew about some of the history, but not this in-depth, and it was fascinating. And so was learning more about the cultural impact of this album, even after almost 50 years since its release, and the ways younger fans are embracing it. If you're looking for a fun read, you'll want to check this out!
Thank you to Atria Books for the gifted review copy
November 7, 2025
Thank you Atria Books and NetGalley for this advanced digital copy for my feedback!
I am a Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks fan and definitely fall into that category of millennials who heard them first in the early 2000s when I was in high school. The first song I heard and loved was actually not on the Rumours album but was Rhiannon. That song introduced me to Stevie and Fleetwood Mac and I was hooked from then on. I heard the singles from Rumours but didn’t listen to the whole album until later in college. I finally got to see them in concert (minus Lindsey Buckingham) on their last tour in 2019 and it was everything I had hoped for.
Don’t Stop is a fascinating and entertaining book about the staying power of Fleetwood Mac but specifically the Rumours album. Broken into three parts, it tells of the history of the band, then breaks down all of the songs and their relevance in the culture since 1977 and then talks more about the band and the album in the recent years.
During the middle part with the song breakdown, I stopped reading to listen to each song prior to reading the chapter about it. It was a really fun way to read this book.
As a book lover, there are a lot of references to the similarities with the Rumours lore and Fleetwood Mac and the Taylor Jenkins Reid novel Daisy Jones & The Six. As a Swiftie, we also get references to Taylor and how Fleetwood Mac and the singer-songwriters in the band kind of excelled in that concept of writing songs specifically about their lives and putting all of those emotions into their songwriting.
If you love music history and its relevance in culture, Fleetwood Mac and research-like non-fiction, this is a must-read.
I am a Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks fan and definitely fall into that category of millennials who heard them first in the early 2000s when I was in high school. The first song I heard and loved was actually not on the Rumours album but was Rhiannon. That song introduced me to Stevie and Fleetwood Mac and I was hooked from then on. I heard the singles from Rumours but didn’t listen to the whole album until later in college. I finally got to see them in concert (minus Lindsey Buckingham) on their last tour in 2019 and it was everything I had hoped for.
Don’t Stop is a fascinating and entertaining book about the staying power of Fleetwood Mac but specifically the Rumours album. Broken into three parts, it tells of the history of the band, then breaks down all of the songs and their relevance in the culture since 1977 and then talks more about the band and the album in the recent years.
During the middle part with the song breakdown, I stopped reading to listen to each song prior to reading the chapter about it. It was a really fun way to read this book.
As a book lover, there are a lot of references to the similarities with the Rumours lore and Fleetwood Mac and the Taylor Jenkins Reid novel Daisy Jones & The Six. As a Swiftie, we also get references to Taylor and how Fleetwood Mac and the singer-songwriters in the band kind of excelled in that concept of writing songs specifically about their lives and putting all of those emotions into their songwriting.
If you love music history and its relevance in culture, Fleetwood Mac and research-like non-fiction, this is a must-read.
November 18, 2025
Let me preface this review by saying that it is impossible for me to not be critical when it comes to any book about Fleetwood Mac. As an elder millennial FM fanatic of many decades, I have read countless books on FM and its members and nitpick every single one. This case is no different but I've tried my best to keep it civil.
I think the premise here is a compelling one - why has "Rumours" continued to influence generation after generation and specifically found new life among Gen Zers. In execution though, it felt as if there were 3 different directions combined into 1:
- the overall persisting influence of Rumours
- the song-by-song breakdown of the album
- the particular focus on Gen Z's relationship with the album.
I think the book would have been more effective if you kept the influence and song-by-song breakdown as the book. I think the focus on Gen Zers would have been better as a separate article. Ultimately, I think the constant and at times misguided analysis by Gen Zers took away from the other foci of the book.
While I have DEFINITE OPINIONS on the included observations of the Gen Zers, I am glad that they primarily found "Rumours" through the music first and not via the backstory and that it's a comfort album to many of them. Light does some of his best work in describing the emotional appeal of the album and how that has been a major part of why younger generations keep finding it. I could write volumes on the bias towards one band member in particular by this book and its contributors but I'll spare you my diatribes.
Some of the thoughts and asides in the book seemed to be just randomly dropped in with little context and really didn't warrant being included. There's also some factual errors which is par for the course of almost every FM book.
In the end, I don't think I'd recommend this to hardcore FM fans but I would for younger fans coming on board via "Rumours". I'd also encourage the younger fans to listen to the rest of the FM catalog. There's more to FM and to life beyond "Rumours".
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria for the opportunity to read and review.
I think the premise here is a compelling one - why has "Rumours" continued to influence generation after generation and specifically found new life among Gen Zers. In execution though, it felt as if there were 3 different directions combined into 1:
- the overall persisting influence of Rumours
- the song-by-song breakdown of the album
- the particular focus on Gen Z's relationship with the album.
I think the book would have been more effective if you kept the influence and song-by-song breakdown as the book. I think the focus on Gen Zers would have been better as a separate article. Ultimately, I think the constant and at times misguided analysis by Gen Zers took away from the other foci of the book.
While I have DEFINITE OPINIONS on the included observations of the Gen Zers, I am glad that they primarily found "Rumours" through the music first and not via the backstory and that it's a comfort album to many of them. Light does some of his best work in describing the emotional appeal of the album and how that has been a major part of why younger generations keep finding it. I could write volumes on the bias towards one band member in particular by this book and its contributors but I'll spare you my diatribes.
Some of the thoughts and asides in the book seemed to be just randomly dropped in with little context and really didn't warrant being included. There's also some factual errors which is par for the course of almost every FM book.
In the end, I don't think I'd recommend this to hardcore FM fans but I would for younger fans coming on board via "Rumours". I'd also encourage the younger fans to listen to the rest of the FM catalog. There's more to FM and to life beyond "Rumours".
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria for the opportunity to read and review.
August 31, 2025
Out November 4th, 2025
Don't Stop by Alan Light is a vibrant and insightful exploration of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary album Rumours, a record that has transcended generations and musical boundaries. Light, a seasoned music journalist, dives into the album’s origin story—beginning with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks joining the band in 1975—and traces its meteoric rise to becoming one of the most beloved and enduring albums of all time. He unpacks the emotional chaos behind the scenes: romantic entanglements, breakups, and drug-fueled tensions that paradoxically fueled the band’s creative brilliance. We all have seen the L.B. and S.N. singing to each other. Chefs kiss.
What makes this book especially compelling is Light’s investigation into Rumours’s continued relevance in the digital age. He interviews young fans who discovered the album through TikTok, TV shows, and viral moments—like Nathan Apodaca’s cranberry juice skateboarding video set to “Dreams.” Light argues that the album’s emotional honesty and musical craftsmanship resonate across generations, offering something for everyone, whether it’s heartbreak, hope, or harmony. Each chapter of the book is devoted to a track from the album, including “Silver Springs,” which Light calls “the song that creates Schrödinger’s Rumours,” due to its complicated release history.
Through a mix of cultural analysis, personal anecdotes, and artist interviews, Light paints Rumours not just as a musical milestone but as a cultural touchstone. He shows how the album has been embraced by everyone from pop stars to indie rockers, and how its themes of love and loss continue to echo in today’s music and media. Don't Stop is both a celebration and a meditation—an ode to an album that refuses to fade, and a testament to the power of music to connect people across time and experience. Alexia, play Fleetwood Mac!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Atria books for this ARC!
Don't Stop by Alan Light is a vibrant and insightful exploration of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary album Rumours, a record that has transcended generations and musical boundaries. Light, a seasoned music journalist, dives into the album’s origin story—beginning with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks joining the band in 1975—and traces its meteoric rise to becoming one of the most beloved and enduring albums of all time. He unpacks the emotional chaos behind the scenes: romantic entanglements, breakups, and drug-fueled tensions that paradoxically fueled the band’s creative brilliance. We all have seen the L.B. and S.N. singing to each other. Chefs kiss.
What makes this book especially compelling is Light’s investigation into Rumours’s continued relevance in the digital age. He interviews young fans who discovered the album through TikTok, TV shows, and viral moments—like Nathan Apodaca’s cranberry juice skateboarding video set to “Dreams.” Light argues that the album’s emotional honesty and musical craftsmanship resonate across generations, offering something for everyone, whether it’s heartbreak, hope, or harmony. Each chapter of the book is devoted to a track from the album, including “Silver Springs,” which Light calls “the song that creates Schrödinger’s Rumours,” due to its complicated release history.
Through a mix of cultural analysis, personal anecdotes, and artist interviews, Light paints Rumours not just as a musical milestone but as a cultural touchstone. He shows how the album has been embraced by everyone from pop stars to indie rockers, and how its themes of love and loss continue to echo in today’s music and media. Don't Stop is both a celebration and a meditation—an ode to an album that refuses to fade, and a testament to the power of music to connect people across time and experience. Alexia, play Fleetwood Mac!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Atria books for this ARC!
November 3, 2025
I wouldn't call myself a superfan of Fleetwood Mac, but I know many of their songs and am aware of some of the backstage drama that went on. This book focuses on their popular Rumors album and discusses each song.The best parts of the book are the excerpts from interviews with the group members and the background information on each song. It was interesting to read how Fleetwood Mac influenced other singers and groups.
I also liked reading about some of the general reasons why new generations of music fans have discovered and enjoyed this album which was originally released in 1977. I was less interested in quotes and opinions from random fans. I think even casual fans of Fleetwood Mac will enjoy the detailed look at "Rumors" that this book provides.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Atria Books and NetGalley for review consideration, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
I also liked reading about some of the general reasons why new generations of music fans have discovered and enjoyed this album which was originally released in 1977. I was less interested in quotes and opinions from random fans. I think even casual fans of Fleetwood Mac will enjoy the detailed look at "Rumors" that this book provides.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Atria Books and NetGalley for review consideration, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
November 5, 2025
Don’t Stop is exploring the ongoing Rumours phenomenon with post millennials. Precisely Rumours the album by Fleetwood Mac. Why is this particular album still streamed regularly and staying on the charts? But also why are younger generations the demographic?
Alan Light does a fantastic job breaking the book in 3 parts. Part 1 being Fleetwood Mac’s entire history leading up to Rumours. Part 2 goes into detail each track on the album, how it was created, recorded, finally the impact on modern culture. Bits of quotes from authors, journalists, musicians to everyday people. They all share what the song means to them personally.
Finally part 3 goes into the big question of WHY RUMOURS? Why is this album listened, referanced and loved by younger generations? Is it because of the drama surrounding Fleetwood Mac during the Rumours era or the music itself?
“Rumours continues to give listeners a road map to reflect on what they had and what they lost, to go their own way, to keep thinking about tomorrow.”
My take:
I truly don’t think there is a right or wrong answer. I personally believe it’s simply because Rumours is one of a kind, never created again. It’s that good and everyone appreciates it, it’s timeless.
My opinion:
As a Fleetwood Mac and Steve Nicks fan, when I saw this book I immediately requested the eARC. I really enjoyed reading this. I really wasn’t familiar with the start of the band, being blues band, really blew my mind. I cannot fathom having to be in a band with your ex-husband or ex-boyfriend(s). Stevie and Christine really wrote break up songs then performed with said ex. The drama!
Reading about the ins and outs of the writing process, which was no doubt MESSY, was so interesting! I disliked how Buckingham would sometimes refer to Stevie as not as talented (as other band mates) it broke my heart. I grew up listening to oldies with my parents, at 32 it’s still my comfort music. I can honestly remember being little and rocking out to this album! Rumours holds a special place in my heart.
I highly recommend this is you’re a Fleetwood Mac fan. The history of this amazing album was so cool to get into.
Thank you to NetGalley and Artia for this eARC!
Alan Light does a fantastic job breaking the book in 3 parts. Part 1 being Fleetwood Mac’s entire history leading up to Rumours. Part 2 goes into detail each track on the album, how it was created, recorded, finally the impact on modern culture. Bits of quotes from authors, journalists, musicians to everyday people. They all share what the song means to them personally.
Finally part 3 goes into the big question of WHY RUMOURS? Why is this album listened, referanced and loved by younger generations? Is it because of the drama surrounding Fleetwood Mac during the Rumours era or the music itself?
“Rumours continues to give listeners a road map to reflect on what they had and what they lost, to go their own way, to keep thinking about tomorrow.”
My take:
I truly don’t think there is a right or wrong answer. I personally believe it’s simply because Rumours is one of a kind, never created again. It’s that good and everyone appreciates it, it’s timeless.
My opinion:
As a Fleetwood Mac and Steve Nicks fan, when I saw this book I immediately requested the eARC. I really enjoyed reading this. I really wasn’t familiar with the start of the band, being blues band, really blew my mind. I cannot fathom having to be in a band with your ex-husband or ex-boyfriend(s). Stevie and Christine really wrote break up songs then performed with said ex. The drama!
Reading about the ins and outs of the writing process, which was no doubt MESSY, was so interesting! I disliked how Buckingham would sometimes refer to Stevie as not as talented (as other band mates) it broke my heart. I grew up listening to oldies with my parents, at 32 it’s still my comfort music. I can honestly remember being little and rocking out to this album! Rumours holds a special place in my heart.
I highly recommend this is you’re a Fleetwood Mac fan. The history of this amazing album was so cool to get into.
Thank you to NetGalley and Artia for this eARC!
November 3, 2025
So excited to finally get to read this!! There is so much to be said about the history and impact of this album and the space given to each song made it feel like rediscovering it all. I think it’s impossible to capture all the nuance of the album and put an exact name to what makes it so special, but this book definitely gets real close.
It’s so cool I got to be even a small part of this project (even if my legacy after basically going to gender studies school is using the phrase “boy music”) But seriously being quoted talking about one of my favorite albums and one of my favorite books amongst so many big names is crazy so thank you Alan 🙏
It’s so cool I got to be even a small part of this project (even if my legacy after basically going to gender studies school is using the phrase “boy music”) But seriously being quoted talking about one of my favorite albums and one of my favorite books amongst so many big names is crazy so thank you Alan 🙏
November 10, 2025
I LOVE Rumours. I love the impact that this album has had on soooo many generations and artists. We all know how huge the Rumors album was but learning about the impact of the album was so fascinating. I liked learning about the history of how the album was made, because Fleetwood Mac knew they were making magic. But this book focused on the impact of this album on modern music and why younger generations continue to find and love this album, and I appreciated this unique perspective on the album!! Overall, such a great book!!
Thanks to Atria Books for the free book!!
Thanks to Atria Books for the free book!!
February 2, 2026
This book looks at Rumours from many different angles - group dynamics, individual songs, reactions of younger listeners, and more - while also allowing each section to sprawl as needed. It not only makes me want to listen to the album again, but all five made by the five who made this album. Of course, books about music are like catnip to me, so it may not work as well for others.
February 6, 2026
I listened to this in the car, and when I got to the chapters focusing on each song, I listened to the songs before and after each chapter. I love music documentaries and I particularly love the 70s music scene, so this was so much fun.
Want to read
June 30, 2025received this as an eARC and couldn’t be more excited!
December 6, 2025
If you’re a fan of Rumors — and apparently many people are! — this is likely a good book for you. Alan Light, who is not only a reputable music journalist but also co-hosts the Sound Up podcast with Mark Goodman — has a very readable writing style. Personally, I would have liked more about the songs and less about the younger legion of fans who have claimed Rumors as a favorite. A few takeaways:
1. Most younger people who discovered Rumors were unaware of the soap opera happening within Fleetwood Mac when it was recorded. Therefore, it’s not a “breakup album” to them. Well, I was 10 when Rumors came out, so I didn’t know about any of that either! I just liked the music.
2. Stevie Nicks has become the main draw for many of the newer fans of the band. She does get shortchanged in many books about women in rock history. Light makes up for that here.
3. Some folks need to seriously reevaluate their assessment of Christine McVie. Come on! She is also rock royalty and one of our greatest songwriters!
4. Apparently buying an album to just look at the cover and say you own it is a thing. Folks — go buy a proper stereo. I was very thankful that Light is “of a certain age” and does not refer to records as “vinyls.”
In all, a quick and easy look at the album and the band. Look for deep dives elsewhere but do give it a shot if you’re a fan or just curious what all the fuss is about.
1. Most younger people who discovered Rumors were unaware of the soap opera happening within Fleetwood Mac when it was recorded. Therefore, it’s not a “breakup album” to them. Well, I was 10 when Rumors came out, so I didn’t know about any of that either! I just liked the music.
2. Stevie Nicks has become the main draw for many of the newer fans of the band. She does get shortchanged in many books about women in rock history. Light makes up for that here.
3. Some folks need to seriously reevaluate their assessment of Christine McVie. Come on! She is also rock royalty and one of our greatest songwriters!
4. Apparently buying an album to just look at the cover and say you own it is a thing. Folks — go buy a proper stereo. I was very thankful that Light is “of a certain age” and does not refer to records as “vinyls.”
In all, a quick and easy look at the album and the band. Look for deep dives elsewhere but do give it a shot if you’re a fan or just curious what all the fuss is about.
November 30, 2025
Nothing new for any Fleetwood Mac devotee who knows the album and lore inside out, but still a fun companion to work through, especially if you listen to each track before digging into its respective chapter.
May 27, 2025
I won’t lie. Rumours has long been one of my “top ten” albums. And, like many today, it was released before I was born. But to see how the making of the album, the road toward the iteration of Fleetwood Mac that we all know best, and just how it all comes together even now? Well, that makes me want to slap the AirPods in and start the album all over. I could go with rattling the walls and treating neighbors to the concert with the LP and my “you mean you don’t use a soundbar and that’s REAL treble and bass???” system, but it’s hot outside and I don’t wish to cool the yard that much.
But I digress. Seeing how this album and the art that is woven into its every single note and word manages to find a home in hearts of people young enough to be my own kids (ouch) makes me happy. Knowing that this album and this band are seen as the true storytelling artists that they are just brings a smile to my face. And maybe a tear to my eye when I think about Songbird and the woman who wrote it.
But I digress. Seeing how this album and the art that is woven into its every single note and word manages to find a home in hearts of people young enough to be my own kids (ouch) makes me happy. Knowing that this album and this band are seen as the true storytelling artists that they are just brings a smile to my face. And maybe a tear to my eye when I think about Songbird and the woman who wrote it.
August 12, 2025
3.5/5. HOW have I gone this long without knowing that Christine McVie wrote You Make Loving Fun about the man she was having an affair on her husband with but for the sake of the band she was like “No guys, I swear, this is about my dog.”
December 9, 2025
Alan Light’s Don’t Stop: Why We (Still) Love Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours is both a cultural history and a love letter to an album that refuses to fade. Light approaches Rumours not simply as one of the bestselling records of the 1970s but as a living, breathing work that continues to surface, generation after generation, with uncanny emotional relevance. His book is driven by a central curiosity: why does this particular album endure? And his most compelling answer emerges from the way he traces the album’s feminine core—its voice, its vulnerability, its anger, and its persistence.
Light reminds us that Rumours was created in a crucible of personal chaos, but he avoids rehashing the tabloid fascination that has long surrounded the band. Instead, he homes in on the creative and emotional labor of the women whose voices shaped the album: Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie. What remains radical about Rumours is how openly it foregrounds women’s interior worlds at a time when rock music was still dominated by masculine bravado. Light illustrates this with clarity—the songs written by Nicks and McVie do not simply respond to the men in the band; they define the emotional terrain of the record. Their lyrics refuse to swallow heartbreak quietly. Their melodies bend pop-rock into something more fluid, lush, and expressive. Their presence transforms the album into a dialogue where the women are not muses but authors.
Light’s most perceptive passages explore how Rumours became a soundtrack for women listeners who recognized themselves in Nicks’s mysticism and McVie’s plainspoken sincerity. Throughout the late ’70s and ’80s, the record found a home among women navigating heartbreak, independence, longing, and self-renewal. Light argues that the album’s staying power rests partly on this: Rumours gives emotional complexity to women in a musical environment that often preferred them simplified.
The book becomes especially fascinating when Light fast-forwards to the digital age. The album’s viral resurgence on TikTok—propelled by the now-iconic “Dreams” longboard video—reveals not just nostalgia but a cross-generational recognition of emotional truth. Teenagers in 2020 and beyond gravitated to Nicks’s voice with the same intensity as their mothers and grandmothers. Light suggests this is because the album’s feminine perspective has always been less about circumstance and more about the cyclical realities of heartbreak and resilience. The feelings Nicks put into the world at 28 are the same ones many young women articulate online today—just with different tools.
Yet Light’s book reaches its emotional peak when he turns to the enduring mythology of Stevie Nicks. Her songs on Rumours—especially “Dreams,” “Gold Dust Woman,” and, later, the outtake “Silver Springs”—become case studies in the longevity of female storytelling. Light writes about the 1997 The Dance performance of “Silver Springs” with a sense of reverence, and rightfully so. It is one of the most electrifying live moments in rock history: Nicks, decades after the breakup that inspired the song, turning toward Lindsey Buckingham and delivering the line “I’ll follow you down ’til the sound of my voice will haunt you” like a spell. She doesn’t whisper it. She declares it—calm, steady, almost triumphant. The gaze she fixes on Buckingham is not nostalgic longing but a testament to the way women remember, endure, and reclaim.
Light recognizes this moment as the embodiment of the entire Rumours legacy. It is a reminder that women’s voices—once dismissed as overly emotional—carry extraordinary power when they are allowed to stand, unedited, in the spotlight. As Nicks sings that final line, she becomes the album’s thesis in human form: that heartbreak has a memory, that art can outlast the circumstances that created it, and that the men we have loved in our lives will, in fact, never fully escape the sound of the woman who loved them.
Light reminds us that Rumours was created in a crucible of personal chaos, but he avoids rehashing the tabloid fascination that has long surrounded the band. Instead, he homes in on the creative and emotional labor of the women whose voices shaped the album: Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie. What remains radical about Rumours is how openly it foregrounds women’s interior worlds at a time when rock music was still dominated by masculine bravado. Light illustrates this with clarity—the songs written by Nicks and McVie do not simply respond to the men in the band; they define the emotional terrain of the record. Their lyrics refuse to swallow heartbreak quietly. Their melodies bend pop-rock into something more fluid, lush, and expressive. Their presence transforms the album into a dialogue where the women are not muses but authors.
Light’s most perceptive passages explore how Rumours became a soundtrack for women listeners who recognized themselves in Nicks’s mysticism and McVie’s plainspoken sincerity. Throughout the late ’70s and ’80s, the record found a home among women navigating heartbreak, independence, longing, and self-renewal. Light argues that the album’s staying power rests partly on this: Rumours gives emotional complexity to women in a musical environment that often preferred them simplified.
The book becomes especially fascinating when Light fast-forwards to the digital age. The album’s viral resurgence on TikTok—propelled by the now-iconic “Dreams” longboard video—reveals not just nostalgia but a cross-generational recognition of emotional truth. Teenagers in 2020 and beyond gravitated to Nicks’s voice with the same intensity as their mothers and grandmothers. Light suggests this is because the album’s feminine perspective has always been less about circumstance and more about the cyclical realities of heartbreak and resilience. The feelings Nicks put into the world at 28 are the same ones many young women articulate online today—just with different tools.
Yet Light’s book reaches its emotional peak when he turns to the enduring mythology of Stevie Nicks. Her songs on Rumours—especially “Dreams,” “Gold Dust Woman,” and, later, the outtake “Silver Springs”—become case studies in the longevity of female storytelling. Light writes about the 1997 The Dance performance of “Silver Springs” with a sense of reverence, and rightfully so. It is one of the most electrifying live moments in rock history: Nicks, decades after the breakup that inspired the song, turning toward Lindsey Buckingham and delivering the line “I’ll follow you down ’til the sound of my voice will haunt you” like a spell. She doesn’t whisper it. She declares it—calm, steady, almost triumphant. The gaze she fixes on Buckingham is not nostalgic longing but a testament to the way women remember, endure, and reclaim.
Light recognizes this moment as the embodiment of the entire Rumours legacy. It is a reminder that women’s voices—once dismissed as overly emotional—carry extraordinary power when they are allowed to stand, unedited, in the spotlight. As Nicks sings that final line, she becomes the album’s thesis in human form: that heartbreak has a memory, that art can outlast the circumstances that created it, and that the men we have loved in our lives will, in fact, never fully escape the sound of the woman who loved them.
September 2, 2025
I was raised by a classic rock lover, and among my dad's vinyl collection is an original pressing of the seminal 1977 album, Fleetwood Mac's Rumours. Though I wouldn't necessarily call myself an expert on the album, it is in somewhat regular rotation for me, and I have always at least been aware of it and its significance in the landscape of the last half-century of music. I was delighted to receive an ARC of this upcoming book (publishing November 2025), which explores the way that Rumours has influenced all corners of pop culture since its release.
In the case of this album, it's almost impossible to separate the music from its creation, and in this book, there is some discussion of the tumult happening behind the scenes. However, that's not the primary purpose here, and the author gives just enough to provide context. I really appreciated this new take on Rumours, which after some introduction, takes us song-by-song (yes, including "Silver Springs") through the album, touching on how each track has impacted everything from politics to television, stage productions, novels, the rave scene, and more. The book is especially interested in how younger listeners have found and continue to breathe new life into the album.
Alan Light finds really interesting in-points for most of the songs, though there are a few instances that you can feel he was struggling to find a hook. (Perhaps fitting for the song, the chapter on "Oh Daddy" meanders a bit until it lands on an hommage to Mick Fleetwood's drumming.) And, of course, Lindsay Buckingham and (especially) Stevie Nicks loom large throughout the book, but it's understandable, given how much of the lore of the album is wrapped up their decades-long back-and-forth. Special attention is also paid, rightfully, to Christine McVie's role as the band's pop virtuoso.
All things considered, this is an informative, brisk read that is a must-have for any music lover or pop culture obsessive.
Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for the eARC.
In the case of this album, it's almost impossible to separate the music from its creation, and in this book, there is some discussion of the tumult happening behind the scenes. However, that's not the primary purpose here, and the author gives just enough to provide context. I really appreciated this new take on Rumours, which after some introduction, takes us song-by-song (yes, including "Silver Springs") through the album, touching on how each track has impacted everything from politics to television, stage productions, novels, the rave scene, and more. The book is especially interested in how younger listeners have found and continue to breathe new life into the album.
Alan Light finds really interesting in-points for most of the songs, though there are a few instances that you can feel he was struggling to find a hook. (Perhaps fitting for the song, the chapter on "Oh Daddy" meanders a bit until it lands on an hommage to Mick Fleetwood's drumming.) And, of course, Lindsay Buckingham and (especially) Stevie Nicks loom large throughout the book, but it's understandable, given how much of the lore of the album is wrapped up their decades-long back-and-forth. Special attention is also paid, rightfully, to Christine McVie's role as the band's pop virtuoso.
All things considered, this is an informative, brisk read that is a must-have for any music lover or pop culture obsessive.
Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for the eARC.
September 13, 2025
Atria Books provided an early galley for review.
I am a big fan of Light's books as well as his time on Sirius XM Volume. I also enjoy the album Rumours. So, this was a must-read for me.
Even if some of it is "second hand news" (sorry, could not resist), Light clearly lays out the history of the band and details of each of the individual tracks. This is important for those who haven't had this album running through their life for nearly five decades. His thesis and goal with the book, after all, is about bridging the generations of those who owned it on original vinyl and of those who discovered the songs from TV shows, film soundtracks and social media. Rather ironic, too, that the record is bringing worlds together when the band was enduring core-shaking issues which the album clearly chronicles.
I am a big fan of Light's books as well as his time on Sirius XM Volume. I also enjoy the album Rumours. So, this was a must-read for me.
Even if some of it is "second hand news" (sorry, could not resist), Light clearly lays out the history of the band and details of each of the individual tracks. This is important for those who haven't had this album running through their life for nearly five decades. His thesis and goal with the book, after all, is about bridging the generations of those who owned it on original vinyl and of those who discovered the songs from TV shows, film soundtracks and social media. Rather ironic, too, that the record is bringing worlds together when the band was enduring core-shaking issues which the album clearly chronicles.
November 8, 2025
4.5⭐️
Second read for #nonfictionnovember —this was an unexpected delight! I wouldn’t have considered myself a Fleetwood Mac “fan” per se, but their music has been ubiquitous for most of my life. I owned Rumours on vinyl when I was in high school, because everyone did 🤷♀️
This book discusses why and how Rumours, an album released 50 years ago, is still relevant today. It was so interactive for me…it discussed each song on the album so as I was reading I had to pull up each song on Spotify & listen along. When it mentioned pop culture references (Paul Rudd’s Saturday Night Live skit, the skateboard guy drinking his Ocean Spray, Glee episodes, etc), I had to look them up on YouTube. I loved hearing the history behind one of the greatest albums of all time.
Thank you to @atria for my gifted copy.
Second read for #nonfictionnovember —this was an unexpected delight! I wouldn’t have considered myself a Fleetwood Mac “fan” per se, but their music has been ubiquitous for most of my life. I owned Rumours on vinyl when I was in high school, because everyone did 🤷♀️
This book discusses why and how Rumours, an album released 50 years ago, is still relevant today. It was so interactive for me…it discussed each song on the album so as I was reading I had to pull up each song on Spotify & listen along. When it mentioned pop culture references (Paul Rudd’s Saturday Night Live skit, the skateboard guy drinking his Ocean Spray, Glee episodes, etc), I had to look them up on YouTube. I loved hearing the history behind one of the greatest albums of all time.
Thank you to @atria for my gifted copy.
November 9, 2025
A solid book about easily one of the best albums of all time. Rumors to me is a perfect album, no skips, and this spilled a lot of tea about the band’s process making it. It lost me when it compared the band’s drama to Justin Beiber, Hailey Baldwin & Selena Gomez. One star off for saying something absolutely bonkers. It also was a little bit repetitive and for a shorter book it doesn’t work.
January 6, 2026
"Meeting Stevie and Lindsey changed everything. We went from being a fairly competent bunch of musicians to being, in a sense, gods."
DON'T STOP: WHY WE (STILL) LOVE FLEETWOOD MAC'S RUMOURS was such a fun and insightful read.
One of the few fun facts I have about myself is that Fleetwood Mac was the first concert I ever saw...I know 💁♀️ but despite growing up with their music being constantly pumped into my little ears, I didn't know much about them, how they evolved, let alone the state the members were in while creating Rumours (aside from what I gleaned from Daisy Jones 😅)
This book is well-researched, stemming from the beginning of the band's creation, up to how the band, this album, and Stevie Nicks herself have cemented themselves in our current day AND amongst Gen Z.
There were a few moments where the author seemed to go off on tangents that came off as fact rather than opinion, but this was, overall, a well-informed read that had me feeling nostalgic 🥹
Thanks to Atria Books for the free copy for review!
DON'T STOP: WHY WE (STILL) LOVE FLEETWOOD MAC'S RUMOURS was such a fun and insightful read.
One of the few fun facts I have about myself is that Fleetwood Mac was the first concert I ever saw...I know 💁♀️ but despite growing up with their music being constantly pumped into my little ears, I didn't know much about them, how they evolved, let alone the state the members were in while creating Rumours (aside from what I gleaned from Daisy Jones 😅)
This book is well-researched, stemming from the beginning of the band's creation, up to how the band, this album, and Stevie Nicks herself have cemented themselves in our current day AND amongst Gen Z.
There were a few moments where the author seemed to go off on tangents that came off as fact rather than opinion, but this was, overall, a well-informed read that had me feeling nostalgic 🥹
Thanks to Atria Books for the free copy for review!
November 10, 2025
I FUCKING LOVE FLEETWOOD MAC
November 29, 2025
More out of my genre than usual…but I have been a Fleetwood Mac fan since Rumours was released. Although the In depth descriptions of the musicality was way over my head, it was worth it to find out where the individuals in the group were when each song was written and produced. To know that almost 50 years later this group still remains relevant, and is newly relevant to a young audience, does my heart good.
July 1, 2025
I love Fleetwood Mac & this book just reminded me why.
I loved how each chapter was a track off the iconic “Rumours” album. I also enjoyed the mixed quotes from celebrities and normal citizens alike. Also shout out to the kids today that love this album as much as I do, I now understand how my parents felt when I learned to love this album.
Thank you to NetGalley & Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved how each chapter was a track off the iconic “Rumours” album. I also enjoyed the mixed quotes from celebrities and normal citizens alike. Also shout out to the kids today that love this album as much as I do, I now understand how my parents felt when I learned to love this album.
Thank you to NetGalley & Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
October 20, 2025
DON'T STOP: WHY WE (STILL) LOVE FLEETWOOD MAC'S RUMOURS
BY: ALAN LIGHT
ALAN LIGHT has put into this Non-Fiction book about Fleetwood Mac's second successful album since the three British band members invited Lindsey Buckingham on January 1, 1975 to join their band, and Lindsey said only if his girlfriend Stevie Nicks was able to join since he said they come as a package deal. I think that this changed everything by adding these two talented new members, and whether it was the combination of the five working together, but I in my humble opinion, think that it was the addition of Lindsey Buckingham, and song writer Stevie Nicks that quickly skyrocketed this band to be such a huge success. The book doesn't say that, but I remember when I was eleven years old when I first heard the song "Rhiannon," and I loved it, and the book doesn't say that song is their first huge hit, sung by Stevie Nicks, that the world took notice of Fleetwood Mac. The book doesn't give that first LP single any recognition, although it does a couple of times refer to the album as their White Album. I know for a fact that that first hit brought them out of obscurity, and I would have liked to have seen this author acknowledge that. Also, even though he refers to that first White album that doesn't get enough credit since that album and especially "Rhiannon," is what put them in the position to make their second Album ''RUMOURS." Even though he narrowly focuses on just their second Album "Rumors," I am disappointed in part that he doesn't give that hit song any mention, since I think it deserves attention because it is a favorite by many, and it should have been included. So I have mixed feelings about this book for if not for that hit that made Fleetwood Mac, a household name, their rise to fame had started with that blockbuster, best selling song. Since it's my review I am acknowledging that first White album, since there's a lot of people who besides me I grew up with that remember how they came from oblivion until "Rhiannon."
I remember when "Rumors," was released in 1977, and how popular the album was, since I heard it played at parties that we attended. My favorite part of the book was the second section when the author wrote a chapter about each song on Rumors. I guess I was not surprised that Bill Clinton used the song called, "Don't Stop," for his campaign theme song. That was never a favorite of mine. What I did already know was that "Daisy Jones and the Sixth," which I read the ARC, by Taylor Jenkins Reid, was based on Fleetwood Mac, but I never saw the movie, and I don't know if I would be interested in seeing it or not. What I already knew about Lindsey saying he would only join the band if they included Stevie, since they came as a package deal which is old news. What I did found sweet that Christine McVie welcomed Stevie, and that they had such a great friendship throughout the years until Christine's passing away in 2022. I have always wondered why they would choose to eliminate the Stevie Nick's song called, "Silver Springs," from Rumors to be one of my favorite songs I'll never understand, which the book said it was too long, was a huge disappointment to me. Anybody who has never heard it, it's on Fleetward Mac's greatest hits albums that came out in the 1990's which we bought with the DVD, and Stevie Nicks sings a duet with Lindsey Buckingham, you are in for a treat. It's a beautiful song about their break up. While the book did include that song even though it was bumped off Rumors, I was happy that the song was acknowledged.
While overall I did enjoy this book, and I'm happy that post millennials find Rumors still relevant today, I think that I find it mind boggling that there's such a huge following towards that compared to Fleetwood Mac's Greatest hits, which I prefer, personally. I think that Rumors must be a favorite of this author, but it was well written, except I didn't care for the parts where he questions those that are young enough to be my kids, which probably makes me the wrong audience for this book, but certainly not the band, or their music either. Although, I am a big fan of Stevie Nicks and her solo music that she produced around 1980 and after.
Publication Date: November 4, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley, Alan Light and Atria Books for generously providing me with my ARC, in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own, as always.
#Don'tStop #AlanLight #AtriaBooks #NetGalley
BY: ALAN LIGHT
ALAN LIGHT has put into this Non-Fiction book about Fleetwood Mac's second successful album since the three British band members invited Lindsey Buckingham on January 1, 1975 to join their band, and Lindsey said only if his girlfriend Stevie Nicks was able to join since he said they come as a package deal. I think that this changed everything by adding these two talented new members, and whether it was the combination of the five working together, but I in my humble opinion, think that it was the addition of Lindsey Buckingham, and song writer Stevie Nicks that quickly skyrocketed this band to be such a huge success. The book doesn't say that, but I remember when I was eleven years old when I first heard the song "Rhiannon," and I loved it, and the book doesn't say that song is their first huge hit, sung by Stevie Nicks, that the world took notice of Fleetwood Mac. The book doesn't give that first LP single any recognition, although it does a couple of times refer to the album as their White Album. I know for a fact that that first hit brought them out of obscurity, and I would have liked to have seen this author acknowledge that. Also, even though he refers to that first White album that doesn't get enough credit since that album and especially "Rhiannon," is what put them in the position to make their second Album ''RUMOURS." Even though he narrowly focuses on just their second Album "Rumors," I am disappointed in part that he doesn't give that hit song any mention, since I think it deserves attention because it is a favorite by many, and it should have been included. So I have mixed feelings about this book for if not for that hit that made Fleetwood Mac, a household name, their rise to fame had started with that blockbuster, best selling song. Since it's my review I am acknowledging that first White album, since there's a lot of people who besides me I grew up with that remember how they came from oblivion until "Rhiannon."
I remember when "Rumors," was released in 1977, and how popular the album was, since I heard it played at parties that we attended. My favorite part of the book was the second section when the author wrote a chapter about each song on Rumors. I guess I was not surprised that Bill Clinton used the song called, "Don't Stop," for his campaign theme song. That was never a favorite of mine. What I did already know was that "Daisy Jones and the Sixth," which I read the ARC, by Taylor Jenkins Reid, was based on Fleetwood Mac, but I never saw the movie, and I don't know if I would be interested in seeing it or not. What I already knew about Lindsey saying he would only join the band if they included Stevie, since they came as a package deal which is old news. What I did found sweet that Christine McVie welcomed Stevie, and that they had such a great friendship throughout the years until Christine's passing away in 2022. I have always wondered why they would choose to eliminate the Stevie Nick's song called, "Silver Springs," from Rumors to be one of my favorite songs I'll never understand, which the book said it was too long, was a huge disappointment to me. Anybody who has never heard it, it's on Fleetward Mac's greatest hits albums that came out in the 1990's which we bought with the DVD, and Stevie Nicks sings a duet with Lindsey Buckingham, you are in for a treat. It's a beautiful song about their break up. While the book did include that song even though it was bumped off Rumors, I was happy that the song was acknowledged.
While overall I did enjoy this book, and I'm happy that post millennials find Rumors still relevant today, I think that I find it mind boggling that there's such a huge following towards that compared to Fleetwood Mac's Greatest hits, which I prefer, personally. I think that Rumors must be a favorite of this author, but it was well written, except I didn't care for the parts where he questions those that are young enough to be my kids, which probably makes me the wrong audience for this book, but certainly not the band, or their music either. Although, I am a big fan of Stevie Nicks and her solo music that she produced around 1980 and after.
Publication Date: November 4, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley, Alan Light and Atria Books for generously providing me with my ARC, in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own, as always.
#Don'tStop #AlanLight #AtriaBooks #NetGalley
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