Peter Green

Peter Green was an English blues rock singer-songwriter and guitarist best known as the founder and original leader of Fleetwood Mac.

Peter Green was an English blues rock singer-songwriter and guitarist best known as the founder and original leader of Fleetwood Mac. Born Peter Allen Greenbaum in London, he first gained prominence with John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers before forming Fleetwood Mac in 1967. He died in 2020 at age 73.

Early life and career

Peter Green was born Peter Allen Greenbaum on 29 October 1946 in Bethnal Green, London, England. He became involved in the British blues scene as a young musician and rose to wider attention through his work with John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers.

Fleetwood Mac

In 1967, Green formed Fleetwood Mac with drummer Mick Fleetwood and bassist John McVie. The band became one of the leading British blues rock groups of the late 1960s before Green left in 1970.

Songwriting and style

Green was known for his expressive guitar tone and soulful playing. He wrote or co-wrote songs including "Black Magic Woman", "Albatross", "Oh Well", and "The Green Manalishi (With the Two Prong Crown)", which helped establish his reputation as an influential songwriter and guitarist.

Later life and legacy

After leaving Fleetwood Mac, Green experienced periods of reduced activity and later returned to performing and recording. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Fleetwood Mac in 1998. He died in his sleep on 25 July 2020 at the age of 73 on Canvey Island, Essex, England.