Lindsey Buckingham facts: Fleetwood Mac singer's age, wife, children, songs and career explained

15 July 2024, 13:55 | Updated: 16 July 2024, 15:17

Lindsey Buckingham is a name that instantly brings to mind the timeless sounds of Fleetwood Mac.

Known for his intricate guitar work and unique voice, Lindsey has played a pivotal role in the band’s success.

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He joined Fleetwood Mac in the mid-70s and helped shape their distinctive style, contributing to classic albums like Rumours. Beyond his work with the band, Lindsey has enjoyed a successful solo career, showcasing his talents as a songwriter and musician.

His performances are always captivating, blending rock with a touch of folk and pop. Fans appreciate his dedication to his craft and the personal touch he brings to every song.

1. How old is Lindsey Buckingham?

   

   Lindsey Buckingham was born on October 3, 1949, which makes him 74 years old as of 2023. He was born in Palo Alto, California.

   His parents were Rutheda (née Elliott) and Morris Buckingham. Lindsey grew up in a musical family and has two older brothers, Gregory and Jeffrey. His brother Gregory was an Olympic silver medalist in swimming.

   Growing up in California, Lindsey's early exposure to the vibrant music scene helped pave the way for his eventual success with Fleetwood Mac and his solo ventures.

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

   

   Lindsey Buckingham got his start in music at a young age, influenced by the musical environment at home. He and his older brother, Jeffrey, would play music together, with Lindsey focusing on guitar.

   In high school, he joined a band called The Fritz Rabyne Memorial Band, where he met Stevie Nicks, who would become his long-time musical partner.

   Lindsey and Stevie eventually left Fritz to pursue their own musical careers, forming the duo Buckingham Nicks. They released an album in 1973, which, although not a commercial success, showcased their talent and caught the attention of Mick Fleetwood.

   In late 1974, Mick Fleetwood was looking for a new guitarist for Fleetwood Mac and was impressed by Lindsey’s guitar skills. He invited Lindsey to join the band, but Lindsey insisted that Stevie had to be included as well. They both joined Fleetwood Mac in 1975, marking the beginning of a highly successful period for the band (alongside Christine McVie and John McVie).

3. What Fleetwood Mac songs did he write?

   

   Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way (Official Music Video) [HD Remaster]

   Lindsey Buckingham wrote and co-wrote many of Fleetwood Mac’s most memorable songs.

   Some of his most notable contributions include 'Go Your Own Way', a defining track from the Rumours album, which captures his distinct guitar style and emotional depth. He also penned 'Second Hand News', another track from Rumours that showcases his knack for catchy melodies and poignant lyrics.

   From the Tusk album, Lindsey wrote 'Tusk', an experimental and unique song that pushed the boundaries of the band's sound, and 'I Know I'm Not Wrong', which highlights his innovative production techniques.

   He also contributed 'Big Love' and 'Family Man' to the Tango in the Night album.

4. What has he done outside of Fleetwood Mac?

   

   Lindsey Buckingham - Trouble (Official Music Video) [HD Remaster]

   Outside of Fleetwood Mac, Lindsey Buckingham has had a rich and varied solo career. He released his first solo album, Law and Order, in 1981, which featured the hit single 'Trouble'.

   His solo work often showcases his distinctive guitar style and innovative production techniques, allowing him to explore musical avenues that differ from Fleetwood Mac’s sound.

   Over the years, Lindsey has released several solo albums, including Go Insane (1984), Out of the Cradle (1992), and Under the Skin (2006).

   He also teamed up with Christine McVie for a one-off album.

5. Has he been married and had kids?

   

   He married Kristen Messner, a photographer and interior designer, in 2000. The couple has three children together: William Gregory Buckingham, born in 1998; Leelee Buckingham, born in 2000; and Stella Buckingham, born in 2004.

   Despite facing some challenges over the years, including a brief period in 2021 when they reportedly filed for divorce, they managed to work through their issues and remain together.

6. What health issues has he had?

   Lindsey Buckingham has faced several health issues over the years. In February 2019, he underwent emergency open-heart surgery, which resulted in vocal cord damage.

   This was a significant setback for him, especially considering his career as a singer and performer.

   The surgery was successful in addressing the heart issue, but the damage to his vocal cords required a lengthy recovery period and posed challenges to his singing abilities.