Heart gave an enchanting performance of “Going to California” on the Stern Show.
Heart’s performance of Led Zeppelin’s “Going to California” on the Howard Stern Show showcased the band’s versatility and deep appreciation for classic rock. Ann and Nancy Wilson, the driving forces behind Heart, have long been recognized for their powerful vocals and dynamic performances, and their cover of this Zeppelin classic was a testament to their ability to breathe new life into iconic songs. Their appearance on the Stern Show included not only “Going to California” but also a selection of Heart’s own hits, such as “Barracuda” and “Magic Man,” highlighting their broad musical range.
The Wilson sisters’ connection to Led Zeppelin’s music runs deep. In their early days, before they achieved mainstream success, Ann and Nancy played in a Zeppelin tribute band, reflecting their early admiration for the legendary rock group. This history of tribute and admiration was brought to the forefront with their 2012 performance at the Kennedy Center Honors, where they performed “Stairway to Heaven” to great acclaim. Their emotional rendition moved Robert Plant, Led Zeppelin’s lead vocalist, to tears, cementing their place as one of the few bands to have made a profound impact on the legends they admire.
During their Howard Stern Show appearance, Heart chose “Going to California” for its acoustic and introspective nature, which allowed Ann Wilson to highlight her storytelling prowess. The song’s spacious arrangement provided a perfect backdrop for her expressive vocal delivery, demonstrating her ability to convey deep emotion through music. The performance was marked by a raw and intimate quality, which resonated with the audience, capturing the essence of Led Zeppelin’s original while showcasing Heart’s unique interpretation.
The choice of “Going to California” was also a strategic one, reflecting the band’s ongoing engagement with their fans and the broader music community. The performance was part of their promotional activities leading up to their Royal Flush Tour, which marked their return to the stage after a hiatus. This tour was eagerly anticipated by fans and was seen as a significant event in Heart’s ongoing career.
Ann Wilson, born Ann Dustin Wilson in San Diego, California, is celebrated for her powerful and versatile voice. Her career with Heart, which she co-founded with her sister Nancy, has been marked by numerous hits and a reputation for strong, emotive performances. Nancy Wilson, born Nancy Lamoureaux Wilson, has been the band’s lead guitarist and a crucial creative force behind Heart’s signature sound. Together, the Wilson sisters have made significant contributions to rock music, with their dynamic range and skillful performances leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
Heart’s ability to reinterpret classic songs while maintaining their own distinctive sound is one of their hallmarks. Their performance of “Going to California” exemplified this talent, as they navigated the song’s acoustic elements with both reverence and originality. This ability to honor the original while adding their unique touch has been a consistent feature of their work, allowing them to connect with audiences on a deep level.
Their cover of “Going to California” also highlighted their commitment to keeping their live performances fresh and engaging. By incorporating a classic Zeppelin track into their setlist, they not only paid homage to their musical influences but also provided fans with a reminder of their own storied career. This performance was a testament to Heart’s enduring relevance in rock music and their ability to continually evolve while staying true to their roots.
As they moved forward with their Royal Flush Tour, Heart’s performance on the Howard Stern Show served as a poignant reminder of their musical legacy. Their continued ability to captivate audiences with both their original hits and carefully chosen covers underscores their position as one of rock’s enduring and influential acts.
