Heart’s Captivating Rendition of ‘Going to California’ on The Stern Show: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin

Heart’s performance of Led Zeppelin’s “Going to California” on The Howard Stern Show was a mesmerizing tribute, showcasing the Wilson sisters’ deep admiration for the legendary rock band. Known for their past Zeppelin tributes, Ann and Nancy Wilson delivered a rendition that explored the softer, acoustic side of the band’s music, bringing their own style while honoring the song’s emotional core.

Ann Wilson’s vocals were a standout, capturing the song’s ethereal quality with her powerful yet nuanced delivery. She brought a sense of longing to the lyrics that resonated with fans of both Heart and Led Zeppelin. The acoustic arrangement provided a spacious soundscape, allowing Ann to explore the song’s emotions, while Nancy Wilson’s guitar work faithfully mirrored Jimmy Page’s intricate acoustic style, adding her personal touch to the interpretation.

Heart’s homage to Led Zeppelin has been a theme throughout their career, with iconic performances like “Stairway to Heaven” during the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors, which moved Robert Plant to tears. On Stern’s show, Ann and Nancy shared their connection to Zeppelin, highlighting the band’s influence on their artistic journey. Their performance of “Going to California” was a reflection of that bond, honoring the classic while infusing their unique sound.

The acoustic nature of “Going to California” allowed Heart to shift from their signature rock hits, like “Barracuda” and “Magic Man,” also performed on the show, showcasing their versatility in seamlessly blending hard rock power with acoustic delicacy. This choice highlighted their depth as musicians, adeptly transitioning between different styles.

Their appearance on Stern’s show came as they promoted their Royal Flush Tour, their first major tour in five years, balancing new material with classic hits. However, it was their acoustic rendition of “Going to California” that left a lasting impression, underscoring their reverence for Zeppelin’s music while presenting it in a fresh, timeless way.

Ann and Nancy Wilson’s long-standing career reflects their love for Led Zeppelin, and performances like this underscore their ability to honor classic rock while adding their own artistic flair. The performance was a reminder of Heart’s role in rock history as both innovators and keepers of the genre’s legacy.