How Heart’s Performance Of Stairway To Heaven Affected Its Original Artists

Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart delivered a stirring and memorable rendition of Led Zeppelin’s classic “Stairway to Heaven” during the Kennedy Center Honors on December 2, 2012. This performance was a tribute to Led Zeppelin, with the band’s surviving members—Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones—attending the event. The setting added a layer of significance to the performance, making it a deeply touching occasion for both the honorees and the performers.

The Wilson sisters’ version of “Stairway to Heaven” began with a stripped-back, intimate arrangement that gradually built in intensity. They were accompanied by a lush string section and the Joyce Garrett Youth Choir, which provided a rich, orchestral backdrop that elevated the emotional depth of the performance. The choir’s presence was particularly effective in adding a dramatic and grandiose element to the song’s progression.

One of the most poignant aspects of the performance was the inclusion of Jason Bonham on drums. Jason, the son of the late John Bonham—the original drummer for Led Zeppelin—played a significant role in the tribute. His choice to don a bowler hat reminiscent of his father’s iconic style served as a powerful homage, adding a layer of nostalgia and reverence that resonated with the audience and the honorees.

Robert Plant, known for his complex relationship with “Stairway to Heaven,” was visibly moved by the performance. Tears in his eyes highlighted the deep emotional impact of the moment, underscoring the song’s lasting significance both to the band and its fans. This reaction was a testament to the performance’s emotional weight and the enduring legacy of the song.

Nancy Wilson later admitted to feeling nervous about performing such an iconic piece of rock history in front of an esteemed audience that included the President and First Lady. Despite the immense pressure, the Wilson sisters delivered a performance that seamlessly combined technical skill with heartfelt emotion. Their ability to honor Led Zeppelin’s legacy while infusing their own artistic touch was met with admiration from the band’s members.

Ann Wilson described the experience as profoundly impactful, likening it to a moment of “musical bliss” that captured the song’s emotional and spiritual essence. The overwhelmingly positive response from Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones confirmed the Wilsons’ successful tribute, affirming their respect for Led Zeppelin’s influence on rock music.

Overall, Heart’s rendition of “Stairway to Heaven” at the Kennedy Center Honors not only showcased their musical abilities but also highlighted their deep reverence for Led Zeppelin’s contribution to rock music. The performance was a fitting tribute that bridged the gap between generations of rock enthusiasts and celebrated the enduring legacy of one of the genre’s most iconic songs.