Singer-songwriter Christine McVie, who served as the co-lead vocalist and keyboardist of Fleetwood Mac, has died at age 79 following a short illness.
“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,” said her family in a statement released on Thursday, per Variety. “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.”
The band also released an official statement.
“There are no words to describe our sadness at the passing of Christine McVie," the statement reads. "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.”
After recording two albums with blues band Chicken Shack in the late ‘60s, McVie released her debut solo record Christine Perfect in 1970. That same year, she joined Fleetwood Mac and became a key contributor all the way up until their short-lived disbandment in 1995. She was heavily involved with some of the group’s most successful records, including their 1975 self-titled album and 1977’s Rumours.
McVie’s last full-length release came in 2017 with a collaboration album with fellow Fleetwood Mac member Lindsey Buckingham. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for her contributions to the band in 1999, and also received the Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music.
