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About the song

Fleetwood Mac’s “Not That Funny” is a track from their 1979 album Tusk, a groundbreaking release that marked a departure from their earlier, more polished sound. The song stands as a testament to the band’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries, with its raw energy and unorthodox style offering a unique blend of rock, pop, and new wave influences. Written by band member Lindsey Buckingham, “Not That Funny” became one of the more distinct songs in Fleetwood Mac’s catalog, showing off the band’s creative range and daring spirit.

About “Not That Funny”

“Not That Funny” is a song that highlights Lindsey Buckingham’s signature style—its intricate guitar work, layered instrumentation, and biting lyrics are all hallmarks of his songwriting. The song’s driving beat and infectious rhythm make it stand out on the Tusk album, which is known for its experimental nature compared to Fleetwood Mac’s previous works. Buckingham’s vocal performance is filled with irony and wit, and the lyrics suggest themes of disillusionment and self-reflection, with the narrator distancing themselves from someone or something that no longer holds the same meaning.

While “Not That Funny” wasn’t released as a single, its placement on Tusk gave it exposure to the band’s growing fanbase, who were already enamored by the album’s bold and ambitious direction. The song stands as a perfect example of how Fleetwood Mac, especially Buckingham, challenged conventional music styles while maintaining their distinct identity.

Album and Chart Performance

Released in October 1979, Tusk is Fleetwood Mac’s 12th studio album, and it reflects the band’s desire to break free from the constraints of their previous hit albums like Rumours. “Not That Funny” is nestled in between other remarkable tracks on the album, which explored various genres and tones. This album was considered a commercial risk due to its experimental production, which included the use of a full marching band on some tracks, but it ultimately proved to be successful.

Tusk reached #1 on the Billboard 200, and despite the mixed critical reception of the album’s more unconventional tracks, it became a commercial success, selling millions of copies worldwide. “Not That Funny” itself didn’t chart as a single, but its influence and unique style garnered attention from listeners and critics alike. Fleetwood Mac’s willingness to experiment with sound on Tusk helped to solidify their place in the annals of music history, proving that they were more than just a mainstream success—they were artists willing to evolve.

Fleetwood Mac’s Legacy

Fleetwood Mac’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, with Tusk playing a key role in shaping their legacy. The band’s journey from their earlier blues-rock roots to a pop-rock juggernaut with albums like Rumours made them one of the most versatile and influential bands in rock history. With Tusk, Fleetwood Mac’s sound was cemented as one of complexity and innovation, and “Not That Funny” is a prime example of the band’s willingness to take creative risks.

Lindsey Buckingham’s songwriting and production style are often cited as central to the band’s success, particularly on tracks like “Not That Funny.” His ability to blend catchy melodies with sophisticated production techniques helped to push Fleetwood Mac into new musical territory while maintaining the emotional depth and complexity that the band is known for. Alongside Buckingham, Stevie Nicks, Christine McVie, and Mick Fleetwood helped define the band’s unique sound, which has had a lasting impact on rock music.

Conclusion

Fleetwood Mac’s “Not That Funny” is more than just a track on Tusk—it’s a reflection of the band’s fearless approach to music-making. With its bold experimentation, the song exemplifies Fleetwood Mac’s ability to evolve and push boundaries, even when they were already at the peak of their career. “Not That Funny” remains an underrated gem in Fleetwood Mac’s discography, demonstrating the band’s innovation, complexity, and enduring influence on the music industry.

By embracing the experimental and breaking away from the formulaic success of their previous works, Fleetwood Mac showed that they were more than just a mainstream band—they were true pioneers in the music world. Tusk and songs like “Not That Funny” have helped to keep Fleetwood Mac relevant for decades, ensuring their place as one of the greatest rock bands in history.