Heart Plays A Flawless And Emotional Rendition Of Stairway To Heaven

Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart took part in Led Zeppelin’s tribute at the 2012 Kennedy Centre Honors gala, performing “Stairway To Heaven” with Jason Bonham. His father, John Bonham, had been Led Zeppelin’s drummer. Heart had played the composition previously, but this occasion placed the Wilson sisters before Led Zeppelin themselves, President Barack Obama, celebrities and dignitaries.

The honor recognized Led Zeppelin’s contribution and impact. Presented by Obama, the Kennedy Centre Honors acknowledge people whose work has contributed significantly to American culture. Earlier recipients named by the source include Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. And Joni Mitchell. The ceremony celebrating the honorees takes place at a gala at the Kennedy Centre.

Led Zeppelin and Heart had each found substantial success during the 1970s. Numerous later artists said Led Zeppelin influenced their work, among them Metallica, Def Leppard, Alice Cooper, Madonna, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Beastie Boys and Lady Gaga. Heart, meanwhile, was described as the sole widely successful rock group fronted entirely by women. Its run of hits encompassed “These Dreams” and “Alone,” along with the song whose title begins “All I Wanna Do” and ends “Is Make Love To You.”

Despite Heart’s familiarity with “Stairway To Heaven,” the setting made the performance intimidating. Ann and Nancy later acknowledged being frightened by the prospect of handling such a cherished song in its creators’ presence. Their worries proved unnecessary, according to the source, which characterized the resulting performance as passionate and emotional.

The cameras repeatedly showed Led Zeppelin during the number. Robert Plant had tears in his eyes, and the band members exchanged smiles as they watched. Shots of the wider audience showed people dancing and singing along. Once the performance concluded, the crowd responded by standing to applaud.

Watch the full performance on page two