Mick Fleetwood facts: Fleetwood Mac drummer's age, career, wife and family explained

15 July 2024, 11:50 | Updated: 16 July 2024, 15:18

Mick Fleetwood in 1968
Mick Fleetwood in 1968. Picture: Getty

By Tom Owen

Mick Fleetwood is a legend in the world of rock music.

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Best known as the drummer and co-founder of Fleetwood Mac, Mick’s love for music started early, and by his late teens, he was already making a name for himself on the London blues scene.

His distinctive drumming style and charismatic stage presence helped catapult Fleetwood Mac to global fame. The band’s 1977 album Rumours is one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring hits like ‘Go Your Own Way’ and ‘Dreams’.

Despite the many ups and downs in his personal and professional life, Mick has always remained the steady heartbeat of the band. Beyond music, he’s a talented photographer and a passionate advocate for ocean conservation.

  1. How old is Mick Fleetwood?

    Mick Fleetwood in 2023
    Mick Fleetwood in 2023. Picture: Getty

    Mick Fleetwood was born on 24 June 1947, which makes him 77 years old as of 2024.

    He was born in Redruth, Cornwall. His parents were John Joseph Kells Fleetwood, a Royal Air Force fighter pilot, and Bridget Maureen (née Brereton), who was originally from Australia.

    Mick has an older sister named Susan Fleetwood, who was a well-known actress.

    Growing up in a military family, Mick moved around quite a bit, living in places like Egypt and Norway.

  2. How did he get his start in music and when he start Fleetwood Mac?

    John McVie, Danny Kirwan, Mick Fleetwood, Peter Green, and Jeremy Spencer in 1969
    John McVie, Danny Kirwan, Mick Fleetwood, Peter Green, and Jeremy Spencer in 1969. Picture: Getty

    Mick Fleetwood's journey into music began in his teenage years when he moved to London. He was drawn to the vibrant blues scene of the 1960s and started playing drums in various bands.

    His first significant break came when he joined Peter Green's band, Peter B's Looners, and later played with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers.

    In 1967, Mick, along with Peter Green and John McVie, formed Fleetwood Mac. The band initially started as a blues outfit, with their debut album featuring tracks like 'Black Magic Woman' and 'Shake Your Moneymaker'.

    John McVie, Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks, Mick Fleetwood, and Lindsey Buckingham
    John McVie, Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks, Mick Fleetwood, and Lindsey Buckingham. Picture: Getty

    Over the years, Fleetwood Mac evolved their sound, especially with the addition of Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks, and Lindsey Buckingham in the 1970s. This new lineup brought a more pop-rock vibe, leading to massive hits and worldwide fame.

    Mick's steady drumming and leadership have been central to the band's enduring success.

  3. Is he married and does he have kids?

    Mick with Jenny Boyd in 2014
    Mick with Jenny Boyd in 2014. Picture: Getty

    Mick Fleetwood has been married three times and has four children.

    His first marriage was to Jenny Boyd in 1970, with whom he had two daughters, Amy and Lucy. They divorced in 1976 but remarried in 1977, only to divorce again in 1978.

    In 1988, Mick married Sara Recor, a longtime friend, but their marriage ended in 1992.

    His third marriage was to Lynn Frankel in 1995. They had twin daughters, Ruby and Tessa, born in 2002. Mick and Lynn's marriage ended in 2015.

  4. What has he done outside of Fleetwood Mac?

    Outside of Fleetwood Mac, Mick Fleetwood has pursued a variety of interests and projects.

    He's released several solo albums, including The Visitor in 1981 and I'm Not Me in 1983, showcasing his versatility and passion for music beyond the band's signature sound.

    Mick is also a talented photographer, with his work being exhibited in galleries and published in books. His keen eye for capturing moments has been well-regarded in the art community.

    Additionally, Mick has dabbled in acting, with appearances in films and TV shows, including a memorable role in the 1991 sci-fi movie The Running Man.

    He's also a dedicated advocate for ocean conservation, often lending his voice and support to various environmental causes.