Why Did Peter Green Leave Fleetwood Mac Before Their Iconic Success? A Look At The Early Years

Axel S�rensen

5 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

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Peter Green's Founding Role and Early Fleetwood Mac's Success

Peter Green wasn't just a member of early Fleetwood Mac; he was its architect. His vision and musical prowess laid the foundation for the band's unique blues-rock sound that captivated audiences in the late 1960s.

The Blues Foundation

Green's profound understanding of the blues, honed through years of playing in various British blues bands, infused Fleetwood Mac with an authenticity and raw energy that set them apart. He assembled a talented group of musicians, including Mick Fleetwood and John McVie, establishing a potent musical synergy.

• Key Albums: The band's early output, including albums like Fleetwood Mac (1968), Mr. Wonderful (1968), and Then Play On (1969), showcased Green's exceptional songwriting and guitar skills. His innovative playing style, blending blues riffs with a psychedelic edge, became the band's signature.
• Songwriting Prowess: Green penned many of Fleetwood Mac's early hits, including "Black Magic Woman" and "Oh Well," songs that remain staples of classic rock radio. His compositions showcased both his lyrical talent and his mastery of the blues idiom.
• Growing Popularity: Early Fleetwood Mac quickly gained critical acclaim and a growing fanbase, establishing itself as a prominent force in the British blues scene and beyond. Their concerts were legendary, fueled by Green's electrifying stage presence and exceptional musicianship.

The Impact of Psychedelic Drugs and Mental Health

While Peter Green's musical talent propelled Fleetwood Mac to early success, the use of psychedelic drugs played a significant, and ultimately destructive, role in his life and career. This period coincides with the rise of the 1960s counterculture, where experimentation with drugs was prevalent within the music scene.

The Turning Point

The late 1960s marked a turning point for Green. Increased use of psychedelic substances, like LSD, began to severely impact his mental health. This is not to suggest that drug use was the sole cause of his struggles, but it undoubtedly exacerbated pre-existing vulnerabilities and contributed to his decline.

• Deteriorating Mental Health: Green's behavior became increasingly erratic, characterized by paranoia, anxiety, and unpredictable actions. He experienced episodes of delusional thinking and struggled to maintain stable relationships, impacting his ability to function within the band.
• Lack of Resources: It's important to consider the limited understanding and resources available regarding mental health issues in the late 1960s. The stigma surrounding mental illness, combined with a lack of effective treatment options, compounded the challenges faced by Green and those around him.
• Influence of Specific Drugs: The impact of specific psychedelic substances on Green’s mental state is a topic explored in various biographies and analyses, though drawing definitive conclusions about causation remains difficult given the lack of readily available medical documentation from that era.

The Breakdown and Departure

The deterioration of Green's mental health led to a series of increasingly problematic incidents, both on and off stage.

• Onstage Disruptions: Reports emerged of Green's erratic behavior during performances, including instances of forgetting lyrics or struggling to play his guitar.
• Band Disputes: The strain on band relationships intensified, creating internal friction as Green's unpredictable actions strained the group dynamic.
• Attempts at Intervention: Bandmates attempted to support Green, but the severity of his condition proved overwhelming, and ultimately, they were unable to provide the necessary care. His departure from Fleetwood Mac in 1970 marked a tragic turning point for both the artist and the band.

The Legacy of Peter Green's Departure

Peter Green's departure marked a significant shift in Fleetwood Mac's trajectory, but his influence would never truly leave the band's identity.

Fleetwood Mac's Post-Green Era

Following Green's exit, Fleetwood Mac underwent significant lineup changes and evolved musically. The arrival of Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks in the mid-1970s propelled the band to unprecedented commercial success.

• Musical Evolution: The band shifted away from its blues-rock roots, embracing a more pop-oriented sound that resonated with a much wider audience. Their album Rumours (1977) became a global phenomenon, showcasing a drastically different musical style than their early work.
• Global Fame: While the Lindsey Buckingham/Stevie Nicks era brought Fleetwood Mac immense commercial success and global recognition, it’s vital to acknowledge the solid foundation laid by Peter Green and his crucial contribution to the band’s initial identity. The contrasting styles highlight the remarkable transformation the band underwent following the departure of its founder.

Conclusion

Peter Green's departure from Fleetwood Mac is a complex story intertwined with musical genius, the pressures of fame, and the devastating impact of mental health struggles. While his absence profoundly changed the band's trajectory, his foundational contributions remain undeniable. His legacy continues to inspire musicians, highlighting the importance of understanding the human cost of success in the music industry. To delve deeper into the fascinating story of Peter Green and early Fleetwood Mac, explore further resources such as biographies and documentaries. Understanding his departure offers a richer appreciation for the music and the lasting impact of this legendary guitarist. Learn more about the life and music of Peter Green and how his influence shaped the course of rock history.