Tusk 12/18/19

Today, I'm featuring a "Great "Marching Band Song of the '70s." Now before you think I've jumped off the deep end, let me explain.

In 1979, Fleetwood Mac released its followup album to 1977's "Rumours," which had sold 10 million copies in 10 months and spawned hits like "Go Your Own Way," and "Don't Stop." This time, the group took a more musically experimental approach and initially, the album was considered a flop...because it only sold 4 million copies. (Sheesh!)

A song by Lindsey Buckingham was released as a single, and not only was it was odd--it was oddly catchy. Buckingham has said that In addition to being drum-heavy, the song also features him playing a Kleenex box and slapping a lamb chop with a spatula! But the most obvious addition to the song was the USC Trojan Marching Band, which not only helped spur countless routines by marching bands everywhere...it also helped Fleetwood Mac go into the record books under the category "Most Musicians to Perform on a Top 10 Record." (Who knew?) The song hit the Top 10 in 8 countries, including the U.S., where it reached #8.

As a former marching band member at Bedford High School in Temperance, Michigan-- just outside of Toledo, (Go, Mules!), I find all this fascinating. I hope you do as well. From 1979's album of the same name, here's "Tusk!"

P.S.: Check out Stevie Nicks' baton routine!