Revisiting the Magic: Enjoy the Song “Tell Me All the Things You Do” by Fleetwood Mac (1970)
Fleetwood Mac has long been a name synonymous with musical experimentation, emotional lyricism, and a remarkable evolution throughout the decades. While most listeners may associate the band with the platinum-selling albums of the mid-to-late 1970s, such as Rumours and Tusk, it is in their earlier works—before the classic lineup crystalized—that we uncover a trove of unapologetically raw talent and artistry. One such gem is the song “Tell Me All the Things You Do”, released in 1970 on the album Kiln House. This track captures a pivotal moment in the band’s history, balancing between the era of British blues and their foray into more melodic rock sounds that would eventually define them globally.
At the heart of this track lies Danny Kirwan, a gifted young guitarist and songwriter whose contributions during this transitional period hold a special place in the group’s lineage. Written by Kirwan and performed with his unmistakable energy and intricate guitar work, “Tell Me All the Things You Do” is a brilliant snapshot of Fleetwood Mac experimenting within the territory of hard rock and progressive rhythm without abandoning the soulful roots that had established their credibility. In this way, the song acts as a bridge—uniting the gritty spontaneity of their early blues records with the rising clarity and structure of modern rock melodies.
The track’s powerful guitar riff and precise percussion create a rhythmic propulsion enveloped in a sense of urgency. Yet, it never feels rushed. There is a refined control to Kirwan’s playing that speaks volumes of his discipline and musical instinct. His layered phrasing—sometimes bluesy, sometimes verging on psychedelic—gives the song a texture that feels both nostalgic and ahead of its time. The song lacks the polished harmonies or stylized production of later Fleetwood Mac works, but therein lies its charm. It’s a bold, unaffected piece that reaffirms the band’s strength not merely in pop reinvention, but also in their rootsy rock craftsmanship.
Lyrically, the composition avoids over-complication, allowing the emotional vitality of the instrumentation to take the lead. It’s an approach that was common among many bands of the time—letting mood and tone evoke more than literal phrases could express. Kirwan’s vocal delivery is earnest, shaded with a youthful intensity that makes the listener lean in, eager to experience the narrative through the mood of the chords rather than the literal weight of the words.
For long-time fans and newcomers alike, revisiting “Tell Me All the Things You Do” offers the rewarding experience of discovering how deep Fleetwood Mac’s musical well truly goes. It is a song that doesn’t demand attention so much as reward it—and for those willing to explore beyond the band’s chart-topping years, this 1970 track is a quietly powerful revelation.