Heart’s performance of “Going to California” on the Stern Show was truly captivating.
Heart’s performance of Led Zeppelin’s “Going to California” on the Howard Stern Show stands out as a remarkable tribute to one of rock’s most iconic bands. This rendition, featuring sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, exemplifies the deep admiration they hold for Led Zeppelin. Their choice of this particular song highlights not only their reverence for Zeppelin but also their ability to infuse it with their own unique style.
Ann Wilson’s vocal performance in this acoustic rendition is particularly noteworthy. Known for her powerful voice, Wilson demonstrates her versatility by delivering the emotional nuances of “Going to California” with exceptional control and sensitivity. The song’s spacious arrangement, devoid of the typical rock instrumentation, allows her to shine in a way that emphasizes her storytelling prowess. This performance contrasts sharply with some of Heart’s more rock-centric tracks, showcasing her ability to adapt and convey a different emotional landscape.
Nancy Wilson’s contribution to the performance is equally significant. Her guitar work, characterized by precision and delicacy, captures the essence of the song’s original acoustic nature. The intricate fingerpicking and subtle dynamics of her playing complement the mood of the piece, highlighting her skill as a guitarist and her deep understanding of the song’s requirements. The interplay between Ann’s vocals and Nancy’s guitar creates a harmonious blend that respects the original while showcasing Heart’s interpretive abilities.
The performance on the Howard Stern Show is part of a broader tradition of Heart paying homage to Led Zeppelin. This respect for Zeppelin’s music is evident in their extensive history of covering their songs. A notable example is their acclaimed 2012 performance of “Stairway to Heaven” at the Kennedy Center Honors, which left a lasting impression on both the audience and Robert Plant, Led Zeppelin’s lead vocalist. The emotional impact of that performance, which brought Plant to tears, underscores the Wilson sisters’ deep connection to Zeppelin’s music and their ability to honor its legacy.
Heart’s appearance on the Stern Show also coincided with the promotion of their Royal Flush tour, their first major tour in five years. This tour marked a significant return for the band, showcasing not only their own classic hits like “Barracuda” and “Magic Man” but also their ability to tackle and reinterpret the work of other legendary artists. The Royal Flush tour served as a testament to Heart’s enduring appeal and their capacity to blend their rock heritage with fresh, innovative elements.
The intimate setting of the Stern Show performance required the band to maintain a delicate balance between staying true to the original song and making it their own. This challenge was met with skill and discipline, as evidenced by the performance’s success in capturing the ethereal and melancholic mood of “Going to California.” The stripped-back arrangement allowed the Wilson sisters to bring their own emotional depth to the song while respecting its original essence.
The performance also highlights the broader influence of Led Zeppelin on Heart’s music. The Wilson sisters have often cited Zeppelin as an inspiration, and their ability to perform these covers with authenticity speaks to their respect and admiration for the band. This connection is further emphasized by their consistent inclusion of Zeppelin covers in their live shows and recordings.
Overall, Heart’s rendition of “Going to California” on the Howard Stern Show stands as a powerful example of their ability to honor classic rock while showcasing their own talents. The performance not only pays tribute to Led Zeppelin but also reinforces Heart’s status as a band capable of bridging the gap between homage and innovation. As they continue to celebrate and reinterpret the music of their influences, their contributions to the rock genre remain both influential and enduring.
