About the song
“Edge of Seventeen,” a song by the iconic American singer-songwriter Stevie Nicks, resonates deeply not only for its musical prowess but also for its poignant backstory and enduring legacy in rock history. Released as the third single from her debut solo album *Bella Donna* in 1982, the song quickly became one of Nicks’ most beloved compositions.
The genesis of “Edge of Seventeen” stems from a period of profound personal loss for Nicks. In December 1980, she experienced the deaths of her uncle Jonathan and the tragic murder of John Lennon, events that deeply affected her and profoundly influenced the song’s creation. The lyrics, penned by Nicks herself, reflect her grief and contemplation on mortality, infused with a symbolic narrative tied to the imagery of a white-winged dove—a representation of the spirit departing the body.
The song’s distinctive musical elements are anchored by a chugging 16th-note guitar riff played by Waddy Wachtel, accompanied by a driving drum beat and a straightforward chord structure—a hallmark of Nicks’ songwriting style. Despite narrowly missing the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 11, “Edge of Seventeen” has stood the test of time, cementing its place as a classic in Nicks’ repertoire.
Nicks drew inspiration for the song’s title from a conversation with Jane Petty, Tom Petty’s first wife, whose Southern accent rendered their initial meeting at “the age of seventeen” into the evocative phrase “edge of seventeen.” This chance linguistic twist sparked Nicks’ imagination, leading her to promise Jane a song in tribute.
Critically acclaimed for its emotive lyrics and powerful delivery, “Edge of Seventeen” continues to captivate audiences and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its impact extends beyond charts and accolades; it has become a touchstone for fans and a testament to Nicks’ ability to channel personal turmoil into timeless artistry.
In 2021, “Edge of Seventeen” received further recognition when it was ranked No. 217 on Rolling Stone’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” underscoring its enduring influence and cultural significance. From its humble origins in grief to its ascent as a rock anthem, “Edge of Seventeen” remains a testament to Stevie Nicks’ artistry and resilience, resonating with listeners across generations and solidifying its place in music history.
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Lyrics
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
And the days go by, like a strand in the wind
In the web that is my own, I begin again
Said to my friend, baby (everything stopped)
Nothin’ else mattered
He was no more than a baby then
Well he seemed broken-hearted
Something within him
But the moment that I first laid
Eyes on him, all alone
On the edge of seventeen
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Well, I went today
Maybe I will go again tomorrow
Yeah yeah, well, the music there
Well, it was hauntingly familiar
Well, I see you doing what I try to do for me
With the words from a poet and a voice from a choir
And a melody, and nothing else mattered
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
The clouds never expect it when it rains
But the sea changes colours
But the sea does not change
So with the slow, graceful flow of age
I went forth with an age old desire to please
On the edge of seventeen
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Well, then suddenly there was no one
Left standing in the hall, yeah, yeah
In a flood of tears
That no one really ever heard fall at all
Well, I went searchin’ for an answer
Up the stairs and down the hall
And not to find an answer
Just to hear the call
Of a nightbird singing, “Come away”
(Come away, come away)
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
I said ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Well I hear you in the morning
And I hear you at nightfall
Sometimes to be near you
Is to be unable to feel you, my love
I’m a few years older than you
(I’m a few years older than you) my love
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh
Just like the white winged dove
Sings a song, sounds like she’s singing
Ooh, baby, ooh, said ooh