Fleetwood Mac singer-songwriter-keyboardist Christine McVie died on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, following a brief illness. She was 79 years old.

Her family released a statement, saying “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 30, 2022, following a short illness. 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.”

McVie was born Christine Perfect on July 12, 1943, in Bouth, Lancashire, England. She started playing piano when she was 11 years old and became interested in rock music in her teens. Her music career began as lead singer for Chicken Shack, a blues rock band that had the UK hit “I’d Rather Go Blind.”

After marrying Fleetwood Mac bassist John McVie, she joined the band on their second album Mr. Wonderful and became a permanent member in ’71. She was a primary songwriter and lead vocalist during the early ‘70s, then added keyboards to her repertoire. With the additions of Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, Fleetwood Mac became a multi-platinum pop icon. McVie wrote and sang breakthrough pop tracks like “Over My Head” and “Say You Love Me.”

As romantic relationships in the band started ending, they put the energy into their album Rumours, creating their biggest success with 19 million copies sold in the US and a Grammy for Album of the Year. McVie wrote the album’s upbeat singles “Don’t Stop” and “You Make Loving Fun,” and the ballad “Songbird.”

She also penned the band’s late ‘70s and ‘80s hits “Think About Me,” “Hold Me,” and “Little Lies.” McVie would perform and tour with Fleetwood Mac into the ‘90s, then after an 18-year hiatus, she returned for their 2014 tour and recordings.

McVie also created the cover art for Fleetwood Mac’s Kiln House and released three solo albums. In ’98 Fleetwood Mac was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

“There are no words to describe our sadness at the passing of Christine McVie. She was truly one of a kind, special and talented beyond measure,” Fleetwood Mac’s statement reads. “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.”