John McVie facts: Fleetwood Mac bassist's age, wife, family and career explained

16 July 2024, 15:16

John McVie is a legendary figure in the world of music, best known as the bassist for Fleetwood Mac.

John’s early passion for blues set him on a path that would shape rock history. He joined Fleetwood Mac in the late 1960s, bringing a steady, soulful groove that became the backbone of the band’s sound.

John’s bass lines are essential to classic hits like ‘Go Your Own Way’ and ‘The Chain’. His playing is both understated and powerful, perfectly complementing the band’s dynamic range.

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Outside of music, John is known for his love of sailing and a laid-back lifestyle, contrasting the high drama often associated with Fleetwood Mac.

Despite the band’s turbulent history, John remains a grounding presence, his quiet strength and musical talent continuing to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.

1. How old is John McVie?

   

   John McVie was born on November 26, 1945, which makes him 78 years old as of 2023.

   He was born in Ealing, London, to parents Reg and Dorothy McVie, and he was an only child.

2. How did he get his start in music and when did he join Fleetwood Mac?

   

   John McVie got his start in music during his teenage years, learning to play the trumpet before switching to bass guitar.

   He was heavily influenced by the blues and rock 'n' roll scenes emerging in London at the time. In the early 1960s, he joined John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, where he honed his skills and gained recognition for his solid bass playing.

   In 1967, Fleetwood Mac was formed by Peter Green, Mick Fleetwood, and Jeremy Spencer. Not long after, they invited John to join the band, replacing their original bassist (and the band was partly named after him to entice him to join!).

   The band were later joined by his future wife Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham to complete the iconic lineup.

3. What has he done outside the band?

   Outside of Fleetwood Mac, John McVie has enjoyed a relatively low-key lifestyle, focusing on personal interests rather than high-profile solo projects.

   He's a passionate sailor, often spending time on the water, which provides a peaceful counterbalance to the intense life of touring and recording.

   John also collaborated on a few musical projects outside the band, though these are less well-known compared to his work with Fleetwood Mac.

4. Has he been married or had kids?

   

   John McVie has been married twice. His first marriage was to Christine Perfect, better known as Christine McVie, in 1968. They divorced in 1976, but both continued to work together in the band.

   In 1978, John married his second wife, Julie Ann Reubens. Together, they have a daughter named Molly, who was born in 1989.