Christine McVie
LOS ANGELES – OCTOBER 1987: Music legends Christine McVie and Stevie Nicks pose for a portrait in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Aaron Rapoport/Corbis/Getty Images)

Overnight Fleetwood Mac announced the sad passing of their band member Christine McVie, aged 79. A statement on Facebook read: “There are no words to describe our sadness at the passing of Christine McVie. She was truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure.”

McVie served as the co-vocalist and keyboard player for the legendary British-American rock band which was established in the early ’60s by her then-husband John McVie and Mick Fleetwood. She went on to write some of the band’s most beloved hits such as “Everywhere” and “Don’t Stop”.

“She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life,” the band added. “We were so lucky to have a life with her. Individually and together, we cherished Christine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. She will be so very missed.”

Christine McVie
1975: John McVie, Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks, Mick Fleetwood, and Lindsey Buckingham of the rock group “Fleetwood Mac” pose for a portrait in 1975. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

According to a statement from McVie’s family, the songwriter passed away “peacefully” on November 30 following a “short illness”.

“She was in the company of her family,” the post continued. “We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally. RIP Christine McVie.”

Christine McVie
Los Angeles – CIRCA 1987: Singers Christine McVie and Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac pose for a portrait circa 1987 in Los Angeles, California (Photo by Aaron Rapoport/Corbis/Getty Images)

McVie was inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. The same year she left Fleetwood Mac to later release a solo album in 2004. She rejoined the band for a performance in London before formally rejoining in 2014.