Heart’s “Dog & Butterfly” Soars with Emotion in Los Angeles 2025

On March 3, 2025, Heart made a triumphant return to the stage at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, marking an emotional high point on their Royal Flush Tour. One of the most reflective moments of the night came when the Wilson sisters performed “Dog & Butterfly.” The song’s inclusion in the setlist was a deeply felt nod to their enduring legacy.

The atmosphere in the arena shifted noticeably when that familiar chord progression began. “Dog & Butterfly,” with its introspective tone, offered a moment of calm and contemplation amid a set filled with high-energy anthems. The contrast heightened its emotional impact and underscored the band’s versatility.

For longtime fans, hearing “Dog & Butterfly” live was more than nostalgic—it felt like a journey back to the band’s deepest emotional roots. The song, originally released in 1978, carried the weight of decades, allowing listeners to connect with Heart’s past while celebrating their present.

The inclusion of “Dog & Butterfly” followed a string of Heart classics—from “Crazy on You” to “These Dreams”—making its placement a thoughtful choice. It allowed the audience a moment of quiet reflection mid-set, showcasing the band’s emotional range beyond their more aggressive rock moments.

Ann Wilson’s voice during the performance was as crystalline as ever. Even in a large arena setting, her phrasing brought out the song’s delicate poeticism. Nancy’s backing vocals and guitar work added subtle richness, creating an intimate soundscape despite the venue’s size.

Having just returned to touring after Ann’s cancer treatment and a recent fall, the performance felt especially poignant. Ann, seated in a wheelchair and still recovering, delivered her vocals with focused resolve. That act of courage made the “Dog & Butterfly” rendition even more meaningful.

Technically, the band supported the song with understated restraint. The arrangement was lush but unfussy—guitars woven lightly around the melody, room for Nancy’s acoustic touch, with no unnecessary embellishments taking away from the vocal narrative.

The audience responded with reverence. Compelled by the soft momentum, listeners seemed collectively suspended, as though holding their breath in solidarity with the performance. Applause that followed felt wholehearted, moving the energy in the hall from introspection to celebration.

As part of a set that also featured covers like “Going to California” and energetic hits like “Barracuda,” “Dog & Butterfly” stood out for its emotional depth. It was a reminder that Heart’s greatest strengths lie in contrasting textures—power and gentleness united.

Imagery from the show captured Ann’s expression during the song—eyes closed, voice centered, frail frame grounded by focus—reinforcing the impact of a legend still delivering artistry under pressure. That vulnerability resonated deeply with fans.

Setlist data shows Heart’s core song selection remains steady, with “Dog & Butterfly” appearing consistently across 2025 performances. This steadiness affirmed the song’s enduring importance in both the band’s identity and the emotional narrative of the tour.

The placement of “Dog & Butterfly” typically in the earlier half of the set offered a showcase of Heart’s storytelling. Positioned just before “Dreamboat Annie” and classic rock staples, the performance acted as an emotional pivot—linking their soft touch to harder-edged rock.

Critics and fans praised Heart’s ability to weave such a tender moment into a full-tilt rock show. Coverage highlighted the track as a standout, noting the emotional weight carried by the performance—especially considering Ann’s health and the band’s return after a hiatus.

In retrospect, Heart’s rendition of “Dog & Butterfly” in Los Angeles becomes more than a cover—it’s a testament to resilience and musicianship. The performance underscored that Heart’s artistry remains vibrant, even in the face of personal and physical challenges.

Ultimately, the Crypto.com Arena show solidified the Royal Flush Tour as a journey of renewal. “Dog & Butterfly” played a central role in that narrative—a moment of quiet power, one of the evening’s most emotionally honest highlights.