Stevie Nicks has always been known for being more than just a pop star. Instead, she has been considered a musical poet who upholds courageous and honest ideals in her work. Given this disposition, Nicks’ motivation behind her songs isn’t just to catch the attention of listeners. It’s to create a piece of metaphysically moving music that will be the anthem for individuals for years to come.
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Songs of Nicks’ achieving this feat are those of “Landslide” and “Dreams.” However, there is one song that Nicks toiled with for quite some time to get a similar desired effect. That song was “Cheaper Than Free” which was released in 2011 on her documentary, In Your Dreams: Stevie Nicks.
Stevie Nicks & Dave Stewart
When Stevie Nicks was working on her documentary she received help from Dave Stewart. Stewart was known for working with Tom Petty on “Don’t Come Around Here No More” and with the Eurythmics on numerous other projects. Regardless, when Nicks and Stewart collaborated they came across “Cheaper Than Free,” and their imaginations ran wild.
The song’s original intention was to be a country tune. Upon listening to it, Nicks changed her mind and realized that they had a potential generational hit on their hands. According to Song Facts, Nicks said, “We were both very surprised. I believe in my heart that that song will live on forever.” Now armed with her awe-inspiring motivation to create a timeless classic, Nicks and Stewart took the studio trying to accomplish the intimidating feat.
The Song’s Universal Meaning
The song itself is a beautifully articulated piece about how life’s essentials cost nothing to the individual who has them. Lines such as What’s cheaper than free? / You and me and What’s faster than a fast car? / A beating heart are perfect examples of why Nicks’ believed in the potential of this song. It was these universal truths that Nicks sings about that seemingly gave her the dream of the song becoming a timeless anthem.
To some folks, this song has surely lasted since its 2011 release. To others, it may not of due to numerous reasons. Nonetheless, you have to give Nicks credit for holding on to the youthful ideals that got her started. It’s impressive, especially since many musicians who reach this age seemingly fall out of love with craft and just make music to stay afloat. But not Nicks, as she still has every intention of making music that means more to her than just monetary value.
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