Fleetwood Mac's Christine McVie dies, aged 79

Christine McVie
(Image credit: Fin Costello / Staff)

Christine McVie, singer, songwriter and keyboard player with Fleetwood Mac, has died at the age of 79, her family have confirmed.

A statement on her Facebook page reads: “On behalf of Christine McVie’s family, it is with a heavy heart we are informing you of Christine’s death. 

"She passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th 2022, following a short illness. She was in the company of her family.

"We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally. RIP Christine McVie.”

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This statement was quickly followed by one from her bandmates, who said: "There are no words to describe our sadness at the passing of Christine McVie. She was truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure. 

"She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life. 

"We were so lucky to have a life with her. Individually and together, we cherished Christine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. She will be so very missed.”

Christine McVie

(Image credit: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images)

McVie joined Fleetwood Mac in 1970. She went on to write some of their biggest hits, including Don't Stop, You Make Loving Fun, Everywhere and Little Lies. She also penned Songbird, one of the band's signature ballads.

She left Fleetwood Mac in 1998, but rejoined in 2014.

Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.