The image burns itself into our memory instantly: Stevie Nicks in that shimmering sequined shawl, the white lace peeking through, gazing across at Lindsay Buckingham with an intense stillness. Their intertwined arms hold not romantic affection but pure, shared artistic intent – a potent foreshadowing of a legendary musical partnership. This iconic album cover for “Fleetwood Mac’s Tango In The Night,” though seemingly innocuous today, unveils a story tangled with controversy and regret years later expressed by Stevie Nicks herself.
It all began back in September 1982, but rather than the shimmering gold of their third release alongside Fleetwood Mac members, their eyes fixed on an unsettling shade – nakedness. Behind this infamous artistic choice lay alleged pressure points from management pushing for something “bold” and “groundbreaking”. Both Buckingham and Nicks were visibly uncomfortable with the concept. While Buckingham was open to it in that typical rock-and-roll spirit, a sentiment Nicks expressed through tears.
Accounts from musicians who worked closely during this period reveal that the shoot took place under what could be described as tense situations – fuelled by a climate both excitingly creative but intensely anxiety-ridden around an intense contractual period on record labels. It wasn’t about showcasing artistic confidence in a then male- dominated industry, but navigating the mine field of pressure.
Nicks’ aversion to nudity went far deeper than simply personal choice – it stemmed back from her experiences with her mother who struggled with her perceived “otherness,” leaving Nicks terrified of judgement and misinterpretations based primarily on looks, rather than talent. This raw vulnerability shines ever stronger when hearing Nicks acknowledge that forcing her to go naked against her will felt like a profound infringement into this most private aspect she fiercely guarded.
While the final result speaks for itself – “Tango In The Night” catapulted Fleetwood Mac’ gold record territory; critics were abuzz, audiences embraced the duality – and yet the impact of that photoshoot lingered intensely. It became symbolic to all things forced expression during a period where women were expected to be docile and palatable.
In today’s landscape, the #metoo movement and conversations around consent have opened up a critical space – reminding not everyone operates with comfort zone boundaries, or artistic motivations solely aligned against label pressure and what sold in those days of commercial musical landscapes. It’s undeniable the music is timeless due to Nicks’ powerful vocals; Buckingham’s melodic sensibilities. But revisiting this aspect sheds a fresh light on the inherent conflict at play that perhaps was unavoidable in the music industry then, but thankfully has evolved immensely towards respect, consent being essential artistic currency.
