Stevie Nicks, the legendary singer-songwriter, isn’t just known for her mesmerizing vocals and captivating stage presence. She’s also a self-proclaimed Beatle fanatic. Nicks’ admiration went beyond fandom – she even wrote a heartfelt song following John Lennon’s tragic passing.
And her connection to the Fab Four goes deeper still. During her career, Nicks developed a close bond with a key member of The Beatles’ inner circle, a bond that blossomed into a passionate, albeit brief, affair. This unlikely romance inspired Nicks to pen a beautiful ballad, forever intertwining her story with the legacy of the iconic band.
But Nicks’ affair wasn’t just a fleeting fling with a celebrity acquaintance. The man she fell for was a pivotal figure in the Beatles’ success, a behind-the-scenes player often referred to as the “Fifth Beatle”. His influence on the band’s sound and image was undeniable, and his relationship with Nicks offered a glimpse into a world most fans only ever dreamed of.
Stevie Nicks’ “Beautiful Child” and the Fifth Beatle
Stevie’s enchanting ballad “Beautiful Child” from Fleetwood Mac’s 1979 album Tusk held a deeper meaning than many fans realized. The song chronicled a brief but impactful affair Nicks had with Derek Taylor, the Beatles’ press officer. Taylor’s influence within the band was so significant that he earned the nickname “The Fifth Beatle”.
Nicks herself confirmed the inspiration behind the song. In a Q&A, she acknowledged the fleeting nature of the relationship due to Taylor’s marital status. However, the time spent together was profound. Taylor, with his insider knowledge of the Beatles, became a source of endless fascination for Nicks.
The song’s lyrics capture the bittersweet emotions of the affair, highlighting the intensity within a short timeframe. As Nicks sings, “I fell in love / But I’m not a child anymore”, she acknowledges the maturity gained despite the heartbreak.
Stevie and Her Favorite Beatle
Among The Fab Four, Stevie formed a particular bond with George Harrison. While she acknowledged knowing Ringo Starr and meeting all the Fab Four, her connection with Harrison ran deeper.
“Because I knew him the best,” Nicks explained, “I’d have to say, George Harrison [was my favorite Beatle].” Their connection went beyond casual acquaintance. Nicks described spending time with Harrison, not necessarily writing music, but simply enjoying each other’s company and even playfully attempting songwriting together.
Nicks was drawn to Harrison’s effortless charm. She described him as “handsome, debonair, and funny,” possessing a certain “je ne sais quoi” that made him instantly likable. Their connection was genuine, allowing them to feel comfortable with each other in a remarkably short time.
The Songstress’ Captivating Love Life
Nicks’ personal life has been as captivating as her music. Her most famous relationship was the tumultuous romance with Fleetwood Mac bandmate Lindsey Buckingham. Joining the band together, their passionate but ultimately doomed partnership fueled iconic songs like “Go Your Own Way” and “Dreams”.
Nicks’ exploration of love extended beyond Buckingham. She had a well-publicized affair with drummer Mick Fleetwood, adding another layer of complexity to the band’s dynamic. Musicians weren’t her only romantic pursuit – Nicks also dated Don Henley and Joe Walsh, as well as songwriter Rupert Hine and producer Jimmy Iovine.
However, her only marriage was to someone outside the music world. In 1983, she married Kim Anderson, the widower of her close friend. Sadly, the marriage was short-lived, lasting just three months.