“This may be the most important thing I ever do. To stand up for the women of the United States and their daughters and granddaughters — and the men that love them.” 

On Sep. 27, 2024, “The Reigning Queen of Rock and Roll,” Stevie Nicks, released her first song since 2022, “The Lighthouse.” Written in 2022 after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, “The Lighthouse” is Nicks’ response to the threat women’s rights face in America. Throughout the rock ballad, Nicks encourages women to stand up for themselves and their freedom. 

“They’ll take your soul, they’ll take your power / 

Unless you stand up and take it back.”

Nicks wants the world to know that all of the pain and suffering women in the past went through to gain reproductive rights will not go to waste. The song acts as her battle cry for women to not let the clock be turned back even more than it already has. Nicks wants to act as a lighthouse and guiding light for women who have been hurt by the government’s laws on their bodies. 

“I wanna teach ‘em to fight /

I wanna tell ‘em this has happened before / 

Don’t let it happen again.” 

The song’s release comes at a vital time in our country’s history. As the presidential election approaches, women’s reproductive rights are being discussed now more than ever. “The Lighthouse” was Nicks’ way of getting involved in the conversation and reaching a whole new audience of listeners. 

Along with powerful lyrics, the production from Nicks and Sheryl Crow adds a deep intensity to the song. The booming baseline and strong drums create a stunning musical experience for the listener. 

In my opinion, this song is a beautiful response to the current political climate. Stevie Nicks has always been an outspoken women’s rights advocate and it is so refreshing to see a musician bring awareness to these situations in such an artistic and creative way. Hopefully “The Lighthouse” will encourage more people to advocate for women’s rights and use their voice in times of uncertainty.