top of page

Lindsey Buckingham's decision to restring his guitar three times an hour. 'Never Going Back Again'

Lindsey Buckingham, the renowned lead guitarist and former member of Fleetwood Mac, is widely celebrated for his exceptional musicianship and attention to detail. Throughout his career, Buckingham has consistently demonstrated a level of perfectionism that has set him apart as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. A fascinating example of this dedication to his craft can be found in the recording of the iconic song "Never Going Back Again."


Released on Fleetwood Mac's critically acclaimed album "Rumours" in 1977, "Never Going Back Again" is a testament to Buckingham's unique style and songwriting abilities. The track showcases his intricate fingerpicking technique and emotional vocals, which have left a lasting impact on fans and

fellow musicians alike.

The song's intimate, introspective nature complements the confessional tone of the album, which delves into the tumultuous relationships and personal struggles within the band at the time. The story behind speaks volumes about his dedication to achieving the perfect sound. It's worth noting that restringing a guitar frequently is not a common practice among most guitarists, as strings generally hold their tone for extended periods when adequately maintained. However, for Buckingham, it was a crucial element of his pursuit of sonic excellence.


Buckingham's obsession with precision in the recording studio can be traced back to his early experiences as a musician. Before joining Fleetwood Mac, Lindsey had been part of a duo called Buckingham Nicks, alongside his then-partner Stevie Nicks. Despite receiving critical acclaim for their eponymous album, the duo struggled to achieve commercial success. This early setback likely fueled Buckingham's drive to leave no stone unturned when crafting his musical creations.


When "Rumours" was being recorded, Buckingham's meticulous approach was matched by the turbulent personal relationships among the band members. Fleetwood Mac was grappling with romantic entanglements and internal conflicts, which were both a source of inspiration and strain during the creative process. The emotional weight of these circumstances permeated the album, infusing it with raw authenticity.


In the case of "Never Going Back Again," the song itself reflects Buckingham's emotional vulnerability and resilience. The lyrics suggest a willingness to move forward despite past pain and heartache, a sentiment that may have resonated with the band members as they navigated their intertwined personal lives.


The act of restringing his guitar so frequently allowed Buckingham to maintain a consistent and pristine sound throughout the recording sessions. Given the intricate fingerpicking style he employed on the track, fresh strings likely provided the clarity and tonal brilliance he sought. Moreover, this dedication to constant restringing demonstrated his commitment to pushing the boundaries of his own abilities and seeking perfection in every aspect of his performance.


Lindsey Buckingham's innovative guitar playing on "Never Going Back Again" has had a lasting impact on subsequent generations of musicians. His fingerpicking technique, characterized by its complexity and emotive qualities, remains a source of inspiration for aspiring guitarists worldwide. The song's inclusion on the seminal "Rumours" album further solidified Buckingham's reputation as a musical genius and an essential driving force behind Fleetwood Mac's success.


Beyond his work with Fleetwood Mac, Buckingham's solo career also exemplifies his dedication to musical excellence. He continued to release albums that showcased his versatility as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. His live performances were often described as mesmerizing, with Buckingham's exceptional skill leaving audiences in awe.


However, Buckingham's pursuit of perfectionism also had its challenges. His uncompromising nature sometimes led to creative clashes within the band and contributed to periods of tension and lineup changes. Despite these difficulties, Buckingham's contributions to Fleetwood Mac remain integral to the band's legacy, and he is regarded as a key figure in shaping their sound during their most iconic era.


In conclusion, Lindsey Buckingham's decision to restring his guitar three times an hour while recording "Never Going Back Again" exemplifies his unwavering commitment to his craft. This legendary guitarist's attention to detail and pursuit of perfection have solidified his place as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His influence on both Fleetwood Mac's music and the broader landscape of guitar playing is immeasurable, making him a true icon in the world of rock music. As we continue to enjoy the timeless melodies of "Never Going Back Again," we are reminded of the indelible mark left by Lindsey Buckingham on the history of popular music.

77 views0 comments

Comentarios


bottom of page