Stevie Nicks’ third solo album Rock a Little has turned 30. Released on November 18, 1985, the album marked a sonic departure from Stevie’s previously established sound, focusing on bigger productions and keyboard arrangements. Debuting at No. 12 on the Billboard 200 Albums chart, the album received mixed reviews from critics and fans, selling considerably less than her previous two solo recordings. The sessions were marred by numerous production problems and Stevie’s then-ongoing battle with cocaine addiction.
Despite these challenges, the album still managed to be successful with the help of hit singles “Talk to Me” (#4) and “I Can’t Wait” (#16), which were in heavy video rotation on MTV. Stevie later received a Best Rock Female Vocalist nomination for “Talk to Me” at the 1987 Grammy Awards. Rock a Little has sold more than one million copies in the U.S.
A chaotic world tour helped drive album sales, but took a toll on Stevie’s fragile health. Shortly after the tour, Stevie checked herself into the Betty Ford Rehabilitation Center to seek help in overcoming a decade-long addiction to cocaine.
Stevie Nicks Info will be celebrating Rock a Little by revisiting each track with critical analysis, audio clips, and quotes from Stevie herself about the making of one of her most unusual albums.
