One Song Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams" with Sam Sanders
Dec 4, 2025
Award-winning journalist and podcaster Sam Sanders shares his insights on Fleetwood Mac's 'Dreams'. He delves into the tumultuous Rumours-era, highlighting personal dramas that fueled the band's creativity. The conversation covers the song's spontaneous creation in Sly Stone's room and its viral resurgence on TikTok. Sanders analyzes the hypnotic drum loop and the unique contributions of each band member, revealing how their chaos transformed into legendary music. His reflections on heartbreak and legacy offer a profound look at the power of collaboration amid turmoil.
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Turning Mess Into Masterpiece
- Fleetwood Mac turned personal chaos into lasting art during Rumors by continuing to collaborate despite breakups and affairs.
- Sam Sanders says their creative trust lets them make beautiful music through emotional turmoil.
TikTok Skateboard Revival
- The song re-entered popular culture via Nathan Apodaca's COVID-era TikTok skateboard video drinking Ocean Spray.
- Sam Sanders says the clip proves Dreams transcends heartbreak and invites pure vibing across generations.
From Ten-Minute Demo To Classic
- Stevie Nicks wrote Dreams quickly in about ten minutes inside a black-and-red room at the Record Plant.
- Lindsey Buckingham then expanded her three-chord demo into the finished song, adding the crucial third chord.
