The innovative and eclectic contributions of Lindsey Buckingham to Fleetwood Mac stand out as some of the most intriguing and confrontational elements of the band’s legacy. As Buckingham’s influence within the band grew, the release of Tusk in 1979 marked a significant turning point, showcasing an impressive double-album experience filled with musical ingenuity and sheer determination. This ambitious project, while critically acclaimed, sold only two million copies, especially when compared to the staggering success of Rumours from 1977, which achieved over 20 million sales. This dynamic would also reflect in Buckingham’s solo career, highlighting the distinct differences in commercial success when juxtaposed with his former bandmate Stevie Nicks.

For instance, in 1981, Lindsey Buckingham released his debut solo album, Law and Order, which peaked at No. 32, while Stevie Nicks‘ Bella Donna reached extraordinary heights, earning a four-times platinum certification. Similarly, Buckingham’s 2011 album, Seeds We Sow, failed to penetrate the Top 40, contrasting sharply with Nicks’ success, whose album In Your Dreams soared to No. 6 on the charts. The stark differences in their commercial trajectories illustrate the challenges Buckingham faced as his solo career developed, often experiencing fits and starts due to the complex nature of his music, which retained many qualities reminiscent of Tusk.

Throughout his solo career, Buckingham displayed a remarkable ability to create catchy melodies and intricate hooks characteristic of California pop, yet he frequently opted for a more unconventional approach. His music often combined dazzling elements with a confrontational edge, showcasing his unique artistic vision. Additionally, Buckingham’s work took on darker themes at times, especially evident in albums like 1987’s Tango in the Night and 2003’s Say You Will. However, the sporadic nature of his solo releases can be attributed to the overwhelming presence of Fleetwood Mac, as the band’s projects often overshadowed his individual efforts. Notably, he released music under the banner of Lindsey Buckingham/Christine McVie in 2017, featuring all classic-era members of Fleetwood Mac except for Nicks, despite Say You Will including every classic member but Christine McVie.

In his personal life, Buckingham’s relationship with Fleetwood Mac has been equally tumultuous; he left the band at one point and was later dismissed. Nevertheless, the brilliance of his contributions to the band’s iconic albums from their classic era—including 1975’s Fleetwood Mac and 1982’s Mirage—is reflected in his solo work. This unique blend of creativity and complexity invites a deeper exploration of Buckingham’s discography. Below, we present a comprehensive and ranked overview of Lindsey Buckingham's solo albums, carefully arranged from least to most impactful: