Stevie Nicks Shares a Handwritten Tribute to Her Late Fleetwood Mac Bandmate Christine McVie

Stevie Nicks wrote a heartbreaking tribute to her best friend of almost 50 years, her former Fleetwood Mac bandmate Christine McVie.

The music legend shared a photo of a handwritten note on her Instagram account on Wednesday night. “A few hours ago I was told that my best friend in the whole world since the first day of 1975 had passed away,” she began, revealing, “I didn’t even know she was ill…until late Saturday night.” Nicks continued, “I wanted to be in London; I wanted to get to London—but we were told to wait. So, since Saturday, one song has been swirling around in my head, over and over and over. I thought I might possibly get to sing it to her, and so, I’m singing it to her now. I always knew I would need these words one day.” She rewrote that final sentence once more, underscoring “these words” and adding, “It’s all I can do now…”

The singer then went on to write out the lyrics to Haim’s 2019 song “Hallelujah,” which includes the moving verse, “I had a best friend / But she has come to pass / One I wish I could see now / You always remind me that memories will last / These arms reach out / You were there to protect me like a shield / Long hair running with me / Through the field… / Everywhere, you’ve been with me all along.” Nicks concluded this personal note with the sign off, “See you on the other side, My Love! Don’t forget me. Always, Stevie.”

McVie, who was the vocalist and keyboardist for Fleetwood Mac, died in the hospital on Wednesday morning “following a short illness,” per a statement released by her family. An official cause of death has not yet been revealed, but they added, “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.”

In another statement shared on the iconic rock band’s Twitter account, they wrote, “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. 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.”