Stevie Nicks almost completely "destroyed" her life with drugs.

Stevie Nicks

Stevie Nicks

The Fleetwood Mac star never wants to glamorise her heavy cocaine use in the 1970s because it "almost killed" her and her friends and was a very expensive habit to maintain and to subsequently kick.

In an interview with the new issue of Q magazine, she said: "Touring with Fleetwood Mac in the 70s, cocaine was almost part of the daily routine. But when I talk about it now, I would never want the kids of today to think that I'm saying it was something good. Because it really wasn't something good.

"It almost destroyed my life. It almost killed me and it almost killed a lot of people I know. So if anybody thinks it's safe now - it's not. It's better to just not do it, because eventually you will have to stop, so start saving your money for rehab now. It's so expensive."

Stevie is now in her fifth decade as a performer - as part of a duo, Fleetwood Mac and as a solo artist - but despite her years' of experience she is still plagued by nerves before going on stage so makes sure she's as prepared as possible in order for her panic attacks not to get the better of her.

The 'Edge of Seventeen' singer said: "I'm scared, that's what I am. Before shows, some people - me, Mick (Fleetwood, drummer), we get panic attacks.

"I have always been terribly nervous before shows. So I am so rehearsed and ready that I could be dead and stand up there and still sing the right words and do the right thing."

The 68-year-old singer is always professional and even if she's feeling very ill, will hide it on stage.

She said: "Onstage is the one time you can't bemoan how you feel. Even if you have pneumonia, you have to say, 'I'm leaving that in the dressing room and I'm walking out and I'm gonna be great.' And when I come offstage, then I can burst into tears."