About the song
“Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks is a timeless rock anthem that captivates listeners with its powerful vocals, evocative lyrics, and infectious guitar riffs. Released as part of Nicks’ debut solo album “Bella Donna” in 1981, the song quickly became one of her signature hits, showcasing her distinctive voice and songwriting prowess.
As both the songwriter and performer, Stevie Nicks drew inspiration from personal experiences, including the death of her uncle and the assassination of John Lennon, to create “Edge of Seventeen.” The song’s lyrics reflect themes of loss, resilience, and the passage of time, resonating deeply with audiences around the world.
Upon its release, “Edge of Seventeen” climbed the charts, peaking at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its success solidified Nicks’ status as a solo artist following her departure from Fleetwood Mac, further establishing her as one of the most iconic voices in rock music.
The song’s distinctive guitar riff, played by Waddy Wachtel, has become instantly recognizable and remains one of the most memorable elements of Nicks’ repertoire. Its driving rhythm and melodic hooks continue to energize audiences and inspire new generations of musicians.
With its raw emotion, infectious energy, and enduring appeal, “Edge of Seventeen” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans and critics alike. Its inclusion in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years further underscores its cultural impact and lasting legacy in the world of music.
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Lyrics
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
And the days go by, like a strand in the wind
In the web that is my own, I begin again
Said to my friend, baby (everything stopped)
Nothin’ else mattered
He was no more than a baby then
Well he seemed broken-hearted
Something within him
But the moment that I first laid
Eyes on him, all alone
On the edge of seventeen
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Well, I went today
Maybe I will go again tomorrow
Yeah yeah, well, the music there
Well, it was hauntingly familiar
Well, I see you doing what I try to do for me
With the words from a poet and a voice from a choir
And a melody, and nothing else mattered
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
The clouds never expect it when it rains
But the sea changes colours
But the sea does not change
So with the slow, graceful flow of age
I went forth with an age old desire to please
On the edge of seventeen
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Well, then suddenly there was no one
Left standing in the hall, yeah, yeah
In a flood of tears
That no one really ever heard fall at all
Well, I went searchin’ for an answer
Up the stairs and down the hall
And not to find an answer
Just to hear the call
Of a nightbird singing, “Come away”
(Come away, come away)
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Well I hear you in the morning
And I hear you at nightfall
Sometimes to be near you
Is to be unable to feel you, my love
I’m a few years older than you
(I’m a few years older than you) my love
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh