Heart Gives a Perfect and Emotional Rendition of “Stairway to Heaven”
Dive into a breathtaking rendition of “Stairway to Heaven” like you’ve never heard before. This time, it’s not Led Zeppelin on stage, but the iconic Heart, who were rock sensations in the 1970s alongside Zeppelin.
In 2012, President Barack Obama recognized Led Zeppelin with the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors, acknowledging their significant contribution to American music culture, an honor previously bestowed on greats like Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald.
Heart, famed for hits like “Alone” and “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You,” carved a niche for themselves as one of the top female-led rock bands of their time.
Led Zeppelin’s influence stretches far and wide, inspiring artists across genres, from Def Leppard to Lady Gaga.
The highlight of the 2012 Kennedy Center celebration was Heart’s Ann and Nancy Wilson delivering an unforgettable “Stairway to Heaven” performance, joined by Jason Bonham, the son of Zeppelin’s drummer John Bonham. Their performance was even more special with Zeppelin’s members and the President watching.
Their performance moved everyone, bringing Robert Plant to tears and deeply touching the band members. The addition of a gospel choir in black bowler hats as a nod to John Bonham brought an emotional layer to the homage.
The audience’s reaction was electric, culminating in a standing ovation that reflected the enduring influence of Led Zeppelin’s music. Robert Plant expressed his amazement at how his youthful creation continued to resonate.
The Wilson sisters acknowledged the challenge of performing such a beloved song, yet the commendation from Zeppelin’s own members, with Robert Plant commending their rendition and Jimmy Page praising their prowess, made it an unforgettable evening, honoring the timeless legacy of Led Zeppelin’s music.