Stevie Nicks has always felt a strong pull to return to music: "He should do it because he can."
(Credits: Far Out / YouTube Still)
Published on February 5, 2026, at 5:00 AM, UK
It seems highly likely that Stevie Nicks will keep creating music until the very end of time. While many individuals view their careers in the entertainment industry as just a job, Nicks perceives her involvement with Fleetwood Mac as a deep-seated calling. From the moment she began crafting her timeless hits like ‘Dreams’ and ‘Landslide,’ her aspiration was to produce music that would resonate long after she was gone. Though she drew inspiration and confidence from numerous musical icons, she experienced profound sadness watching many of them leave this world too soon.
Rock and roll history is filled with its share of tragic losses, especially among Nicks's contemporaries. Legendary figures like Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison burned brightly but briefly, leaving a significant void. Even now, the artist known as ‘The Gold Dust Woman’ finds herself mourning the loss of friends such as Christine McVie and her beloved companion Robin, all while she was busy creating her legendary tracks.
However, it’s crucial to distinguish between losing someone to death and an artist choosing to step away from the industry. Despite the glamorous facade of the music business, it often comes with a multitude of challenges that can turn the experience into a nightmare, especially during tours or recording sessions. For many artists, the strain can overshadow the joy of making music alongside friends.
This pressure partially explains why Christine McVie took a break from Fleetwood Mac. The exhausting tour schedule and constant travel became overwhelming for her. Conversely, there are artists who opt to leave simply because they feel they have nothing new to express. Billy Joel retired from the spotlight years ago, and the Eagles pledged never to produce another album without Glenn Frey. Nicks, however, found Cat Stevens’s retirement particularly disheartening.
As people age, it’s natural for them to slow down, but witnessing the folk legend perform at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame left Nicks genuinely amazed by his sustained vocal prowess. Many artists who attempt a comeback often appear diminished, yet in a ceremony honoring influential groups like Kiss, Yusuf's performances of songs such as ‘Peace Train’ powerfully reminded everyone of the enduring appeal of his music.
Nicks expressed a heartfelt desire for Yusuf to return to the music scene, stating, "I think he should come back, because I believe someone like Cat Stevens—or Yusuf, depending on which name he prefers—has a vital message of peace and love. The enormous audience tonight clearly demonstrated that his music can foster those sentiments, and he ought to share it again because he has the ability to do so."
Nicks raises a valid point regarding the importance of his message. Many artists have used their platforms to voice their deepest feelings whenever they have the chance to sing. Yet, songs like ‘Father and Son’ and ‘Morning Has Broken’ serve as poignant reminders that love triumphs over hate and that we should cherish every moment of our lives.
While such messages may not be completely lost, perhaps we need songs like these to guide us toward a more harmonious world. Ultimately, it’s up to Yusuf to decide if he wishes to return to the pop music arena, but there’s no doubt that countless fans would welcome him back with open arms, even if it's simply for a concert tour.
