The Emotional Response Of The Original Creators To Heart’s Stairway To Heaven

Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart delivered a remarkable and emotionally charged rendition of Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” during the Kennedy Center Honors on December 2, 2012. This performance was part of the ceremony honoring Led Zeppelin, with the band’s surviving members—Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones—present. The performance held particular significance for the Wilson sisters, who have long cited Led Zeppelin as a major influence on their own music.

The performance began with a sparse, haunting arrangement that allowed the Wilsons’ vocals to take center stage. As the song unfolded, the arrangement gradually built in complexity and intensity. The addition of a string section and the Joyce Garrett Youth Choir provided a lush, orchestral backdrop that complemented the Wilson sisters’ powerful vocal delivery. This arrangement was designed to capture the original song’s grandeur while introducing a fresh, heartfelt interpretation.

A notable feature of the performance was the involvement of Jason Bonham, the son of Led Zeppelin’s original drummer, John Bonham. Jason’s presence was symbolic, bridging the past and present of Led Zeppelin’s legacy. His choice to wear a bowler hat, reminiscent of his father’s iconic look, added a layer of nostalgia and respect to the tribute, honoring his father’s influence on the band and the song.

Robert Plant, the original lead vocalist of Led Zeppelin, was visibly moved by the performance. His emotional reaction was a testament to the song’s enduring impact and the profound effect it had on him, even decades after its release. Plant’s tears reflected the deep connection he felt with the music and the tribute being paid to it.

Nancy Wilson later expressed her anxiety about performing such a revered song in front of an audience that included the President and First Lady. Despite the high stakes, the Wilson sisters delivered a performance that was both technically impeccable and emotionally resonant. Their ability to convey the song’s intricate dynamics and emotional depth was widely praised by both critics and fans.

Ann Wilson described the experience as intensely moving, comparing it to an almost “orgasmic” moment of musical ecstasy. This description highlighted the profound emotional and spiritual connection she felt during the performance, reflecting the song’s powerful impact on both the performers and the audience.

The reaction from Led Zeppelin members was overwhelmingly positive. Their appreciation for the Wilsons’ performance underscored the success of the tribute and the respect that Heart had for Led Zeppelin’s musical legacy. The tribute not only honored the band’s contributions to rock music but also showcased Heart’s own musical artistry and interpretative skills.

In summary, Heart’s rendition of “Stairway to Heaven” at the Kennedy Center Honors was a standout moment in the event, blending technical excellence with heartfelt tribute. The performance captured the essence of Led Zeppelin’s classic song while infusing it with the Wilson sisters’ unique artistry, creating a memorable homage that resonated deeply with both the audience and the honorees.