Fats Domino’S Little-Known Influence On Fleetwood Mac

March 20, 2025

The air was thick with a mix of excitement and nerves as a young Lindsey Buckingham stepped into the dusty studio in Los Angeles. It was the early 1970s, and he had just joined Fleetwood Mac, a band that was already starting to carve out its place in rock history. But as he listened to the soft hum of guitars and the gentle chatter between bandmates, Lindsey couldn’t shake off a feeling that there was something missing. He wanted to bring a fresh sound to the band, something that would make them stand out. Little did he know, the answer lay in a surprising place: the joyful, boisterous rhythms of Fats Domino.

Growing up in the small town of Palo Alto, California, Lindsey had always been captivated by music. Among his many inspirations was Fats Domino, the legendary rock and roll star known for hits like “Blueberry Hill” and “Ain’t That a Shame.” Fats had a knack for blending upbeat melodies with soulful lyrics, creating a sound that made people want to dance. As Lindsey delved into the band’s work, he realized that the essence of Fats Domino’s music—its infectious energy and heartfelt emotion—could transform Fleetwood Mac’s sound. He began incorporating elements of Domino’s rhythm and style into their music, hoping to ignite a spark that would unify the band.

One fateful evening, the band gathered in the studio, ready to work on their next song. With the sun dipping below the horizon, Lindsey strummed his guitar and channeled the upbeat energy of Fats Domino. “What if we make this track bouncy?” he suggested, tapping his foot to an imaginary rhythm. The other band members looked hesitant at first; they were used to a more subdued style. But Lindsey’s enthusiasm was contagious. As he sang with a bright, uplifting tone, the other musicians began to join in, feeding off his energy. Slowly, the song transformed, morphing into something new and exciting, echoing the joyful spirit Fats Domino embodied.

As the music flowed, so did the emotions. The air in the studio was electric, filled with creativity and camaraderie. Lindsey felt a weight lift off his shoulders—this was what music was meant to be! The playful bounce of Fats Domino’s tunes had injected life into Fleetwood Mac’s sound, shaping it into something fresh. They spent hours working on the song, each note infused with the hope and joy that music can bring. When they finished, they were not just a band anymore; they were a family, united by the love for music.

The song they created, “Go Your Own Way,” became one of Fleetwood Mac’s biggest hits, resonating with fans around the world. It climbed the charts and showcased the evolution of their sound, blending rock with a touch of rhythm and blues—just like Fats Domino had done decades earlier. Lindsey and the band realized how important it was to push boundaries and embrace the influences that inspired them. Fats Domino’s spirit had brought them closer together and helped them connect with their audience on a deeper level, proving that music has the power to transcend time and place.

Reflecting on that transformative experience, Lindsey understood that every artist carries the weight of their inspirations. Fats Domino’s influence reminded him that resilience and innovation go hand in hand in the world of music. It wasn’t just about the notes played or the lyrics written; it was about the heart behind it all. Fats Domino had reminded him that joy could create magic, and it was a lesson that would stay with him for the rest of his career. In the end, music was not only a form of expression but a way of bringing people together, and for Lindsey and Fleetwood Mac, it all started with the iconic sounds of Fats Domino.