Buckingham was arguably the principal creative force behind the 70s version of Fleetwood Mac. He is not only one of the main singer/songwriters, but also producer, leading them on an unusual journey from the commercial heights of 1977's Rumours (still among the biggest-selling albums ever) to the quirkily experimental double album Tusk in 1979.
Buckingham is also recognized as a unique & influential guitarist. Unlike many rock guitarists, Buckingham does not use a plectrum/pick, instead, he uses his fingers and fingernails.
Buckingham has recorded 6 studio albums and two live albums with Fleetwood Mac, and 6 studio albums and three live albums as a solo artist. The In Our Own Time Songfacts reports that Buckingham's sixth solo album, Seeds We Sow, was recorded at his LA home and he played most of the instruments himself. The record came out on September 6, 2011 and was his first to be self-released. As a member of Fleetwood Mac, he was inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.
Initially after joining Fleetwood Mac, Buckingham used a Gibson Les Paul guitar. Before the band, a Fender Telecaster was his main guitar, and was used on his first Fleetwood Mac album. In 1979, he worked with Rick Turner, owner of Renaissance Guitars to create the Model One. He has used it extensively since, both with Fleetwood Mac and for his solo efforts. He uses a Taylor Guitar 814ce for most of his acoustic performances and has also used an Ovation Celebrity in the past.
Shut Us Down
Lindsey Buckingham Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Of conversations that might have been
I know that I treat you unkind
And long ago I lost my mind
And even after all these years
I can't even see you clear
I know that you must lie sometimes
To hide the truth you're trying to find
No I will stay around
As long as I can
As long as I can
Even after all these years
I can't even see you clear
A child is born another dies
And every life has its price
Oh I won't shut us down
No I will stay around
As long as I can
As long as I can
As long as I can
As long as I can
As long as I can
The lyrics of Lindsey Buckingham's "Shut Us Down" are rich in emotional complexity and introspection. The song is a reflective dialogue between two individuals who appear to have a past relationship that ended badly. The verses suggest that the singer (Buckingham) harbors regret and a sense of missed opportunities in having a meaningful conversation with his former lover. He acknowledges that he treated her poorly and that his mind was clouded back then leading to the downfall of their relationship. These lines suggest that the singer is reminiscing about the good times they had together but is simultaneously overwhelmed with feelings of regret and loneliness.
The chorus is an affirmation that despite the past, the singer is committed to keeping the lines of communication open, however tenuous they may be. Here, the singer acknowledges that life is fleeting and that every moment is precious. Even in the face of uncertainty and the likelihood of hurt, he resolves not to shut down the possibility of rekindling the relationship again.
In summary, the lyrics of "Shut Us Down" explore the complexities of human relationships and emotional bonds. They are a testament to the enduring power of hope, reconciliation, and the willingness to take risks for love.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh you and I we sure can dream
We have hopeful thoughts and aspirations together.
Of conversations that might have been
We wonder about the discussions we could have had.
I know that I treat you unkind
I realize that I haven't been treating you with kindness.
And long ago I lost my mind
I went crazy a while back.
And even after all these years
Despite the passage of time, I still feel the same way.
I can't even see you clear
I don't understand your perspective very well.
I know that you must lie sometimes
I understand that you have to keep some things hidden.
To hide the truth you're trying to find
You're searching for something, but you need to keep it secret.
Oh I won't shut us down
I won't let our connection fade away.
No I will stay around
I'm committed to sticking around.
As long as I can
For as long as possible.
Even after all these years
Despite our long history together.
A child is born another dies
Life has its cycles of beginnings and endings.
And every life has its price
We pay a cost for every experience.
Oh I won't shut us down
I won't let our bond be broken.
No I will stay around
I'm dedicated to staying connected with you.
As long as I can
For as long as possible.
As long as I can
For as long as possible.
As long as I can
For as long as possible.
As long as I can
For as long as possible.
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: CORY SIPPER, LINDSEY BUCKINGHAM
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
blueconversechucks
this is a great song with really intense lyrics, but the guitar performance is simply astounding.
Melissa
This song is beautiful and I just love watching Lindsey play guitar. It's just a fantastic experience. He is such a soulful man . He can make you feel his music and that's the greatest
John Overturf
Such an awesome guitarist, and an awesome song! This is REAL acoustic guitar playing here!
gentle eyes
Never stops being incredible to me. What a gem. It's like he is getting better and better.
James Doyle
I was in Awe In The 70's and am still a HUGE LB FAN!!!!
Maddy K
I'm 16 and I'm going to his SF concert with my dad!
Anthony Starguitar
Lindsey your finger picking is fun as it took me a year to figure out Never going backs 3 against 4 timing! Your talent,and imagination are truly magical,and to me you'll always be the guitar warlock
Tina Marie F
Good for you, I wouldn't even attempt it LOL 🎼🎶🎵
Hugh McBride
It's from the Jeff Beck school of...
What the f@ck is he doing?
Home Locators Property Management
So good to see this video back online. I didn't know how much of an artist Lindsey was until I heard/saw his playing of this song.