I was part of the choir for this show, it was an amazing experience. Dave Grohl was on drums for all the rehearsals, so it was a surprise to everyone when Jason Bonham came out for the final performance. Also, this video has footage both from the dress rehearsal, and the live performance. After the show was over, Stephen Colbert came up to me and 2 of my fellow choir members to tell us that we did a great job, it was surreal. Choral arrangement was done by Rob Mathes, and our chorus director is Joyce Garrett. Our choir was also at Obama's inauguration, Bruce Springsteen Super Bowl, and every Christmas in Washington performance on TNT, until it was canceled. We were drawn from a lot of different sources around the DC area, including some former High School choirs after we all graduated, some church choirs, and eventually some University of Maryland choir members. We rehearsed every day including weekends for about 3 weeks for this, and for most of our performances
I know this is an older post, but just read an interview given by Ann in the weeks following this performance. She said she was very humbled by all the compliments her and Nancy received, but was only really worried about what the band, especially Robert, thought. At a dinner following the event, Robert approached her table, said hello to everyone and then Ann. He paused for a moment, kind of staring off into space, then said, I've never liked that song over the years. Ann literally started to tear up, Robert looked down realizing the misunderstanding of his words and said, no no dear, I meant I've always thought it dreadful because It's been covered so many times over the years, and no artist has ever done the song justice....until tonight. He took her hand and kissed it, and said, Bravo my dear, and walked off. Ann said she knew right then she could die a happy women and have no regrets.
@Steve SAINT Well thank you!! For just posting about a story I read, about two rock legends I love, I thought it was the least I could do, and now your comment thanking me just made may day! ✌🏻❤️
Heart's cover of this song and Disturbed's live cover of The Sound of Silence are the best I've ever witnessed. Both covers began completely stripped down with one instrument and continued to grow so well and absolutely amazing. ❤ This cover had me more emotional with the personal touch of the choir and Jason Bonham wearing the bowler hats. However, the lyrics to The Sound of Silence aged well with how we are still stuck watching our screens (of course, much more modern) with war of all types still pulling us in.
@@msfrankie631 as as 16 year old girl who is very much a big fan of rock especially led zeppelin, I assure you ma’am I would not be surprised either hehe
Your comment is spot on: this performance was a huge celebration, and an amazing one at that. I think the members of Led Zeppelin were blown away with this rendition of their incredible song, and the passion of everyone on the stage who took part. I watch this video probably ten ta week and I get chills every time. Some videos get old after one play, but this one never will.
I don't think there was ever a performance so intently listened to by an artist, you can see it on their faces. Jimmy, was mouthing that solo note for note and replaying in his head. It was a master's class by Ann Wilson in performance, if you don't get goosebumps listening to this performance you're dead inside..
They are in a trance, sincerely humbled by the greatness of the Wilson sisters and their rendition of rock's most iconic song. If it is possible to say this, but my God, I love this version even better than Zep's original
Think Whiter Shade of Pale, Danish orchestra, 2006, for a sublime compliment to a tune like this. I say it time and time again, rock music is tailor made for symphony and choir. It elevates the genre to sheer sublimeness. ❤
One thing that really stands out to me is Ann Wilson's restraint. Seriously, we know she could have shredded this to bits and yet, she never lets her vocals overshadow the song.
Oh, she could rip this - or any other rock tune of the last 50yrs - a gaping new one. Simply, one of the great voices of the idiom, period. Not to mention that Nancy can play.
yes indeed and they're touring again they put their Rift from about about two years ago aside which is great.. although it was scary for a while as much as they supported and loved each other through the years what drove them apart for a little bit the sister bond is stronger than ever again
They are such a great band i completely agree, they drifted into being a circuit band, always playing, never topping the bill, criminally underrated is spot on correct.
You know when you bring a tear to the eyes of Robert Plant and the exuberance to the face of Jimmy Paige you’ve performed a masterpiece of the masterpiece.
It’s amazing how Ann’s voice can hold off everything behind her in a live program… the walls of sound from the chorus and band is huge, and her voice is still there, clear and perfect…
I had to check because I used to listen to heart by way of my older sister who Ann is around 70 Not that age matters because even at 71 her voice is amazing. what real artist do they take care of their instrument and you can tell by her voice she hasn’t lost her power she’s incredible! in fact I think the band deserved more respect like some other bands from the 60s and early 70s they didn’t get their props the way they should of.
At work one night in the 80's listening to a radio show called Rock Talk. Heart was the featured band and Anne and Nancy were in the studio being interviewed and taking calls from fans. A fan called in and asked them if they thought they would ever record a Zeppelin song as they always ended their shows with a Zeppelin encore. Nancy related this story of their first outdoor concert. They had just released their first album and were the last band on for the evening. They finished their set and the crowd wanted more so they kept going. Long story to short, they played the entire album and the crowd still wanted more so Nancy went up to Anne and asked what they were going to do to which she replied "We were a cover band for years, why not?" So they closed out the night with Led Zeppelin left the stage and went to their trailer on an amazing high. They were sitting in the trailer soaking up the feeling when there was a knock at the door. They opened it to Jimmy Page standing there and he told them that was the first time he had ever heard anyone cover one of his songs and do it justice and he told them they had his blessings to cover him anytime. Adds a new dynamic to that performance doesn't it?
@@passing_bye5991 If the original recording artist for this song had been Heart (instead of Led Zeppelin) and it was Led Zeppelin who was performing it in this video you would be remarking about Robert Plant's crappy vocal performance of it. 🤣😉😜
@@passing_bye5991 If you were to judge her performance in a vacuum you could not fault her vocal performance (unless she were singing off key, which she isn't). So, exactly how are you justified to fault her vocal performance in this video? With regard to what exactly?
The best "stairway" cover I have heard. Ann Wilson is one of the greatest vocalists in rock music. Nancy absolutely nailed the 12 string acoustic. Bonham made his daddy proud.
Especially when the choir comes in and he is just in amazement of it all.And if you can read his 💋 👄..he says WTF.AHHH Ann and Nancy bheart can sleep at night now knowing they got a standing ovation from the band.Just great performance be had by all.
Man.. when she sang " to be a rock, and not to roll..." like it was her last chance.. I stood up in the middle of my living room... my daughter said " what... are you ... you ok?" Lol
I'm baffled how anyone pulls off a performance like this. The choir, all those strings and brass, the way it all builds up, leaving space for the solos and vocals, giving Jason room for unbelievable drums. The magnitude of the arrangement is overwhelming. And somehow, not only does it not turn into a muddled mess, it's pure magic!
It's the difference between composition--writing the song, performance by the original artists, and the skills involved in creating an arrangement of the original composition and directing a far larger ensemble to perform a cover version--or to back up the original artists when they mature creatively and want to add more depth to their compositions. That's a tightrope to walk. And a damned impressive walk it is!
It's no surprise, all you wonder about in your statement can be attributed to Paul Shaffer. He's been pulling these things off for years. He is a master at arraigning and directing performances like this. He never gets enough credit for his work.
You have to give a shout out to the lighting guy too who broadened the focus as the song demanded. The camera guy took that and flashed images from the stage and to the members of Led Zeppelin who like us all were captured by the performance's greatness. I can't think of a better-executed broadcast than this one and can only imagine how much practice was needed by everyone involved to make something this good look so effortless.
People who like music think Heart were a decent but short lived group but people who know better know the truth, Heart are maybe the most underrated band ever. Hugely respected by other artists nowhere near as huge as they should be mainstream. This is quite simply, one of the best covers ever.
The way Jimmy stands up at the end he looks like an extremely proud parent applauding his kids at a school concert. When the writers of one of the best songs ever written give a cover of that song a standing ovation then there is no need for anymore analysis
Ann said after the performance Robert came up to her and said "I usually don't like when people cover Stairway but ...tonite I liked it " Ann said ..." that was gold from the golden God ...sprinkled " I love that quote from Ann
the smiles on John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page and the tears in Robert Plants' eye's when he picked up on the Bowler Hats worn by the Choir, in tribute to John Bonham says it all....Heart has ALWAYS done a couple Zepplin tunes on their tours and Ann is friends with Robert. Also when Jason looked towards the heavens thinking about his dad at end....i'll admit, i teared up
Hey Fil: I’ve found that a lot of younger people don’t understand music from the Golden Era of Rock: roughly from 1964 to 1984. For one thing, most local Gen-Xers (and those who are even younger) don’t know that Heart is from our hometown of Vancouver. Second - and this is really interesting- it seems that a lot of younger people don’t have the patience to listen to or watch performances of songs that are longer than 3 minutes. When I got my wife, who’s a Gen-Xer, to watch this tribute to Led Zeppelin, she said it was boring because it took so long to get to the fast part. Someone else who I showed it to - a Gen-Yer fellow from Eastern Europe whose second language is English - said: “I don’t like it, but I can see why you like it. It’s music from and for your generation”. It seems that the idea of music creating a journey and telling a story that builds and builds to a crescendo is a foreign concept to people who are post-Baby-Boomers. Songs like “Stairway to Heaven” and Gordon Lightfoot’s “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” were songs that transported people of my generation to a place that not only told a story, but conveyed a message and connected us together as a community. And listening to music on a home stereo was a communal experience shared by groups of friends who found common ground in the music they listened to. Today’s 16-second Tik Tok videos are a far cry from the days when we Boomers would listen to a complete album, almost in silence, as we connected with the music and each other.
Ann was born in San Diego, Nancy, in San Francisco. Heart was formed in 1973 in Seattle. They moved to Vancouver when Ann fell for the brother of a founding member, who had moved to Canada to dodge the Vietnam War draft.
That's such a narrow minded viewpoint. Taylor Swift fans buy albums and she's a fabulous writer, producer, guitarist, and pianist.🤷 Oh, I'm 54, so a Gen X'er ( I think). Perhaps you need to broaden your horizons.😉 Try 'The 'Long Pond Sessions' by Taylor Swift - she opening!
Glad you said that, John Paul was also integral here. Cheers to him as well, and to the late Bonzo, and am tickled to see all those bowlers on the choir, that Bonzo was famous for wearing. Such heart, pun unintended.
@@cqwt6103 That theater looks more like 2,000-ish, maybe 2,500. Unless you're also counting people watching at home, in which case the number would be way over 10,000.
Whoever did the arrangement of this experience is a musical genius. Full, multi-layered, cascade of instruments and vocals, all the parts - we climbed the stairway.
Even more than the standing O, Jimmy Page's clear delight and Robert Plant's clear struggle to not break down in tears are the best signs of what a great job the ladies and the rest all did.
I mean no disrespect to any commenters-but my 💜 tells me that the sisters and, the son, had little fear about not measuring up. Perhaps, they were quelling that nauseating-tingling stage anxiety shadowing many an artist artist, but Ann & Nancy’s one direct path was to kill it...once firmly planted on stage.
I was in high school when Stairway to Heaven was released. I remember my best friend and I discussing the song, right after its release, one morning while walking to school. I am now 67 years old. This performance always makes me emotional and teary-eyed. I think partly because of the performance itself. But also as an older person relating to older Plant, Page and Jones and how this must feel for them at this point in their lives.
I agree wholeheartedly. I'm almost 65. I can't imagine that any young songwriter, when composing a song, could ever dream that their song would be so substantial 40-50 years later, people (of all ages) still love hearing it. That has to be so satisfying.
Ann Wilson's voice is so powerful and absolutely beautiful! She owned the audience and had them in a trance. The musicians and choirs were perfect. This is the best live performance I've ever seen! ♥️♥️♥️
What I really love about it is that the things they added sound great but never overpower or detract from the beauty or perfection of the original song!
Isn't that Craig Bartock playing guitar here? Not totally sure cuz I'm not super familiar with him and their line has changed so much over the years, but he was the last guitarist they had that I'm aware of
I have been a female fan of Ann's since I was 12 years old and first heard Dreamboat Annie. Her voice was amazing. It still is. I am 54 years old now and she still has been blessed with an amazing voice. This was her most stunning performance. My jaw dropped as I watched it live on the Kennedy Honors that year. She's my gal, and I'll be a fan forever. God blessed her with an amazing voice, and she was born to sing. You go girl! I don't think any band could top this.
This is the greatest cover IMHO. Consider this: they're playing infront of their President, infront of the remaining members of Zep, of having the son of the much missed and beloved drummer behind them and everyone is looking for flaws so they can say 'yeah, but it's not as good as the original'. Well, no it's not - it's a cover - but there are very, very few bands/singers that I'd credit to cover this particular song. Ann and Nancy have been covering Zep for years - often billed as the 'female' Led Zeppelin in their early years. Finally; the reaction from RP, JPJ and JP. The emotion that they demonstrate during this song. You can't fake that. You can't beat that...
@@fastpony8127 The 2012 VH-1 Diva performance of Grace Potter with Nancy Wilson opening in support with her acoustic intro to Barracuda, followed by "Crazy on You" with Ann and Grace trading verses. The other 2012 divas would all rise to the top of their prospective genres. Katy Perry for pop, Nicki Minaj in rap and country's Keri Hilson. Potter blew them off the stage. You won't find a video of it anywhere online. Iit was briefly on UA-cam but got scrubbed, copyright struck, you name it, disappeared without a trace. The greatest rock band to pass by mostly unknown was Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. Here they perform "Paris", the same song they closed VH-1 with, but here they are on Letterman: ua-cam.com/video/W0IkH-t2T64/v-deo.html
one must remember that back in the Queen Ann possessed a 7 active voice..she still has almost 6 when she needs to bring it up which is amazing it almost 70 years old. not only are there Led Zeppelin covers amazing just simply Google heart covers and get blown away Classics from The who Elton John and so much more along with the great heart catalog too
I think he looks like that too. Rob Mathes the conductor arranger is such a phenomenal musician. Guitar fantastic pianist. I always look forward to kennedy center honors every year.
I absolutely love how Jimmy Page is reacting. He seems less guarded than when he was younger and when he smiles, his face is like the sun. It’s beautiful to see.
It’s been decades since we worked together on Dog & Butterfly yet I most remember their warmth, their great humor, their boundless joy for performing - like it was yesterday. Amazingly they still give the same goosebumps; if anything, better. Forever grateful to Ann and Nancy.
Thats the first time ive ever noticed Jason seem to struuggle thinking about John.Everyone loves and misses their dad once he's gone, imagine the whole world constantly reminding you how great he was.
You said getting a standing ovation from Robert Plant and Jimmy Page..hmmm forgetting someone? Don't leave out Mr John Paul Jones ok he should always be in the equation.
As someone on the original video posted: "You are watching Rock Legends, cover Rock Gods, in front of said Rock Gods, on a night the Rock Gods are being honored for their rock godliness, choosing the Rock Gods' most famous song. And they slayed it."
You summed it up Nicely. Just for them to take on this challenge live Kennedy Center honors Led Zeppelin. No one else would’ve even tried. These girls have balls.
Who dislikes these videos? I been playing guitar for 37 years, and even though i don’t always dig the music he’s talking about, the dude is always spot on in his analysis. Great enthusiasm for the tunes. Respect man.
@@wingsofpegasus Well, young man, they just don't know what they're talking about. That's all. I don't know much about music. I'm that kind who just knows what they like, & that's about it. So half the time, I can't understand what you're talking about. But it's very obvious that YOU do! Rock! 🤟
there are not many artist who could have pulled this off IN FRONT OF THE ORIGINAL BAND and get tears and a standing ovation at the end. HEART nailed it over the top
Jimmy Page is getting into it. Looks like he's mouthing the notes or frets or counting strings during guitar solo, but they look as impressed as anyone it appears if not more. Touching indeed☝️ Great job 👍 Fil as always.
I think it's more than "Ann brought tears to Robert's eyes". I think the whole thing, the amazing choir, Jason up there, all of it added up to bring a tear to his eye.
What impressed me the most was how Ann could--when she wanted--use exactly the same articulation and phrasing that Robert Plant used in the song, but she didn't do so throughout, adding instead her own flourishes and syncopations here and there. A very studied and masterful cover. She didn't "make it her own" the way Hendrix owned Watchtower, because that's not what was called for.
Skodaman2 Trump is the POS, no question. Trump makes Obama look like an absolute genius... Trump makes the average 3rd grader look like a college professor by comparison.
Firstly, this performance is breathtaking. Secondly, your analysis of it helps the mind understand the Magic the ears have just experienced....as the senses are on maximum overload trying to drink it all in. I'm curious how many people listen to this orchestrated version a couple times in succession to "digest" it's sheer awesomeness. A very big WELL DONE to Led Zeppelin, Heart, & "Wings of Pegasus"....I bow before you all.
something else that makes this Zeppelin cover stand out is the Audio Quality, it's so good that it sounds like it was done in a Recording Studio, and they're Live in a large Hall full of people. all the instruments, and all the voices are mixed just right. often times recordings like this will be off in some way, but those Sound Technicians nailed it.
Seeing Plant say “he’s bad” (which means he’s really good for those of us who weren’t around in the 60’s and early 70’s)when the electric guitar begins to take us to next level. I started to cry when I heard her sing. It reminds me of the little girl I was listening to am/fm portable radio. Before bed. I loved this song! And you are right there is no genre in this song. It has something for everyone. Thank you for your analysis of this performance. WATCH THE 2012 Kennedy Center Honor Led Zeppelin . Heart takes us to church with this performance!!
I have seen this 20+ times and always am mesmerized with a lump in my throat. Watching the reactions from everyone. The choral back up adds a other worldly spiritual experience also. Love this performance!
This song has been done to death, which makes it even harder to cover. Everybody knows how it’s SUPPOSED to sound. They remained true to the original while making it fresh. Adding that gospel choir was a stroke of genius.
What you said about Jimmy Page writing the solo being the important thing, reminds me about the old story about Ritchie Blackmore which goes something like this: Somebody derides Smoke on the Water as being simple and "anybody can play it". Blackmore responds something like this "But you didn't write it, did you? I did"
That's the Truth of it. One of my bandmates told me in about 85, 86? We may as well forget writing songs, there were no good riffs left. Copying someone's genius may seem easy, having your own...not so much.
But now even Blackmore fell off the edge of earth. He's been playing renaissance music (medieval) Since early 90's That friggin music died out 400 years ago. Smh
Watched this live in 2012, and like everyone was amazed by the overall production. As mentioned, Ann & Nancy are incredible to start with, and what an undertaking this was: Heart, a symphony orchestra, amazing backing vocals (couldn't count how many during the song) and then a crowd,/choir at the end!! Not to mention the coordination of all this. The icing on the cake is of course, having Robert Plant and Jimmy Page right there, having them enjoying every note, and tears in Robert Plant's eyes! Amazing. Thank you for presenting this!
I once heard Robert Plant say he hated to hear someone else sing Stairway to Heaven. And if you look at the beginning of this video he does have somewhat of a sourpuss. John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page are smiling from the beginning. But once Ann Wilson starts to rock it, his facial expression does change to a smile. Almost a look of astonishment LOL I love this cover it's one of my favorite I watch it all the time on UA-cam. Thanks Fil ♥️ PS..... Jimmy Page is still just as sexy!
I love the Wilson girls. But seeing Page enjoy it so much is what got me too. He usually just seems to be tolerating those lucky enough to get his company. (Just my opinion on his expressions. I really couldn't know.)
I saw Led Zeppelin in the mid 70's. John Paul Jones played the acoustic intro, alone onstage sitting on a tall stool. Jimmy appeared for the loud parts. JPJ contributed more than he is usually credited for. It is his arrangements that help make Stairway and Kashmir, (and many more) the masterpieces they are. Hats off to a great band and a great rendition by Heart.
Recently saw (separate) interviews of Plant and Jason Bonham talking about Plant's tears here. I guess one of the reasons Plant was moved to the point of tears was because Zeppelin did not know Jason was going to be playing the drums.
I can't help but wonder what's going thru Plant's and Page's and Jones's minds, all the memories that must be connected to this song...to get to this place. And at the end when Jason looks up..damn. Awesome video.
A legendary band paying tribute to a legendary band by playing their greatest hit for them live and getting a standing ovation from them. Can't get any better than that.
“Imagine how nervous Nancy must have been playing in front of Jimmy Page.“ Spoken like a true musician, Fil - never mind that the President and First Lady were in the front row, that’s Jimmy freakin’ Page!
Indeed - Don Felder was playing Hotel California in front of a bunch of stars and musicians, and was asked if it was easy since he had played it thousands of times over his career. He noted that Jimmy Page was in the audience, and with such a legendary guitarist watching, he felt some pressure to get it perfect. He notably said he'd rather be in the audience listening to Page playing Stairway to Heaven.
I watch it almost every night before I go to sleep. It's so beautiful and I, like the audience have a smile on my face and a joyful heart! It just makes me happy.
Whew, I thought I was the only person who admits to not being a fan of Zep in general. The Immigrant Song in particular makes me grind my teeth. But I am a huge fan of Heart and of this song. I think it is better sung by a woman and who better than Ann Wilson? No one.
One of the reasons Robert Plant looked like he was about to cry during the Heart tribute performance was because he had just prior to the show been talking to his bandmates about Jason. Robert Plant was best friends with the father, and told his bandmates that he regretted that they had not invited his son Jason to the Kennedy Center Honors to enjoy it on behalf of his Dad. Then he all of a sudden Jason appeared on stage with Heart and Robert Plant was overcome seeing him.
apparently Jason was in the green room prior to the performance and (I think it was) Robert wandered in to say 'hi' to everyone... just before he came in, someone said to Jason, "you're not supposed to be here, are you?" Jason dives over the back of the sofa and hides until Robert departs...
If I was going to pick anyone to do a tribute to Led Zeppelin with this song, it would be HEART. This is my all-time most favorite song ever written and has been for over 40 years and this version brings tears to my eyes EVERY.SINGLE.TIME.
This was an Epic Tribute to arguably the greatest rock & roll band ever. Heart’s rendition of arguably the greatest rock & roll song ever was impressive.
Indull Shade “ARGUABLY” is the key word here. Not sure what you are reading? Also never said “written”. My statements aren’t something that just materialized. It’s been stated many times by many in the industry. So LMFO.
This was a visual treat as well as a treat for the ears. No one else can do justice to this iconic song as Ann has done. The standing applause from the three greats themselves is a testimony to Ann's prowess. Another thing I would like to add here without fail is the excellent analysis by Fil. He is the only person who really breaks down the whole song down to a simple level with his insight. Have seen a lot of wannabees giving their reaction to a song, and it always looks so pathetic, as they have no clue as to what they are saying. Keep up the good work Fil.
Heart is basically just the female version of Led Zeppelin. Same folky tendencies, same clever use of time signatures, and both are some of the best bands of the 1970s. And Ann Wilson is one of the best rock vocalists of all time. And Fil, have you checked out Polyphonic's "Strairway To Heaven: A Hero's Journey" video? It's one of the best videos on the site as far as music goes!
that's a good assumption but they're also part Moody Blues and Who..at least on Nancy's part she was a huge Moody Blues fan and you can hear a lot of Justin Hayward like strumming in her playing.
On Heart's 1995 unplugged album, The Road Home, John Paul Jones arranged music, and played various instruments including a mandolin. Heart did that album live with an orchestra. It's one of my favorite albums. They expand so much on their talents there. It seems they went from hit rock band to serious, accomplished musicians at that point. They are still touring and I see them ever time they come close enough to make it to a venue to see them.
@@weeooh1 I've always liked their totally over the top Alone video, with Nancy doing her rock chick guitarist stuff, though I did wonder how many pairs of stockings she laddered during the filming process...😸 ua-cam.com/video/1Cw1ng75KP0/v-deo.html
Seeing Robert Plant choked up and the pure joy on Jimmy Page's face, sent a chill up my spine. I watched the Kennedy Center Honors that night it was broadcast and have looked at the You Tube video many times since. Thank you FIL, for your usual wonderful insight.
I go back to this performance every now and then.. and every single time I get goosebumps! So so good. Heart and this band performed exceptionally good!
Robert Plant actually hated this song, maybe he was enjoying watching someone else playing it, also Jason Bonham, Personally I loved it, It gave me a chill just like the original. Who better to cover this song than Ann an amazing vocalist and Nancy an amazing guitarist!
@@ajohn7215 I still don't understand why Plant disses this song. It's a rock and roll masterpiece and he wrote the lyrics. I know he thought it was overplayed but it was because it's so great. It's an epic accomplishment and it made him millions. I don't get it.
I was part of the choir for this show, it was an amazing experience. Dave Grohl was on drums for all the rehearsals, so it was a surprise to everyone when Jason Bonham came out for the final performance. Also, this video has footage both from the dress rehearsal, and the live performance. After the show was over, Stephen Colbert came up to me and 2 of my fellow choir members to tell us that we did a great job, it was surreal.
Choral arrangement was done by Rob Mathes, and our chorus director is Joyce Garrett. Our choir was also at Obama's inauguration, Bruce Springsteen Super Bowl, and every Christmas in Washington performance on TNT, until it was canceled.
We were drawn from a lot of different sources around the DC area, including some former High School choirs after we all graduated, some church choirs, and eventually some University of Maryland choir members.
We rehearsed every day including weekends for about 3 weeks for this, and for most of our performances
BRAVO!!!
That's extremely cool! Thank you for sharing your experience & congratulations on being part of music history!!! 👏
You guys made me cry….just gorgeous! It felt like it was coming from the heavens.
Thank you for sharing your experience and giving us an inside look...you were wonderful!
You guys made one of the greatest song ever even better and that is something to be proud of
I know this is an older post, but just read an interview given by Ann in the weeks following this performance. She said she was very humbled by all the compliments her and Nancy received, but was only really worried about what the band, especially Robert, thought. At a dinner following the event, Robert approached her table, said hello to everyone and then Ann. He paused for a moment, kind of staring off into space, then said, I've never liked that song over the years. Ann literally started to tear up, Robert looked down realizing the misunderstanding of his words and said, no no dear, I meant I've always thought it dreadful because It's been covered so many times over the years, and no artist has ever done the song justice....until tonight. He took her hand and kissed it, and said, Bravo my dear, and walked off. Ann said she knew right then she could die a happy women and have no regrets.
The ultimate compliment!!
Robert is a real gentleman and has great taste
Your post made me tear up. I always wondered what Led said to heart after the show
@Steve SAINT Well thank you!! For just posting about a story I read, about two rock legends I love, I thought it was the least I could do, and now your comment thanking me just made may day! ✌🏻❤️
@@412saint Brought me to tears, too.
Many consider this as the best cover of anyone, ever. I agree.
Great White does it better.
Ann and Nancy have been doing covers of Zeppelin for years, and they are all amazing!
This and hurt are right up there with best covers ever
Heart's cover of this song and Disturbed's live cover of The Sound of Silence are the best I've ever witnessed. Both covers began completely stripped down with one instrument and continued to grow so well and absolutely amazing. ❤ This cover had me more emotional with the personal touch of the choir and Jason Bonham wearing the bowler hats. However, the lyrics to The Sound of Silence aged well with how we are still stuck watching our screens (of course, much more modern) with war of all types still pulling us in.
So joyful and poignant at the same time. Chills every time I watch this.
If you can do a Zeppelin cover and move Robert Plant to tears, then you have nothing more to prove in my oppinon. Your work is done.
Part of those tears were for John B--and his son paying drums for them, but it was the best cover I've heard so far :)
Annie nailed it.DROP THE MIC
Very well put!!
Absolutely!
Most definitely x
This wasn't a cover- it was a celebration. Fine work, ladies.
It wouldn’t surprise me if the millennials on down think THIS is the original❣️😉
MsFrankie As a Gen Z I’ll make sure that doesn’t happen!
@@msfrankie631 as as 16 year old girl who is very much a big fan of rock especially led zeppelin, I assure you ma’am I would not be surprised either hehe
Your comment is spot on: this performance was a huge celebration, and an amazing one at that. I think the members of Led Zeppelin were blown away with this rendition of their incredible song, and the passion of everyone on the stage who took part. I watch this video probably ten ta week and I get chills every time. Some videos get old after one play, but this one never will.
If Heart pays you tribute, you know you've arrived.
I don't think there was ever a performance so intently listened to by an artist, you can see it on their faces. Jimmy, was mouthing that solo note for note and replaying in his head. It was a master's class by Ann Wilson in performance, if you don't get goosebumps listening to this performance you're dead inside..
Yes they absolutely nailed it. It makes my body tingle. It's like a prayer.. Its so powerful with the choir. Amazing!
They are in a trance, sincerely humbled by the greatness of the Wilson sisters and their rendition of rock's most iconic song. If it is possible to say this, but my God, I love this version even better than Zep's original
A master class. Male or female, Annie is a GOAT in the rock n roll world. What an iconic, powerful track. Sublime.
Well said, Fil, one of the greatest ever written. I dare say, rock's greatest anthem.
Think Whiter Shade of Pale, Danish orchestra, 2006, for a sublime compliment to a tune like this. I say it time and time again, rock music is tailor made for symphony and choir. It elevates the genre to sheer sublimeness. ❤
One thing that really stands out to me is Ann Wilson's restraint. Seriously, we know she could have shredded this to bits and yet, she never lets her vocals overshadow the song.
This this this, she didn't oversing it. She's a pro.
Oh, she could rip this - or any other rock tune of the last 50yrs - a gaping new one. Simply, one of the great voices of the idiom, period. Not to mention that Nancy can play.
Jenn B, I was thinking the same thing as a watched this. It would have ruined it had she tried to dominate it with her fantastic voice.
Yes, Ann can blow away mountains with her voice 👍
Among the best vocals in rock
This fella’s smile pretty much says it all.......
The Wilson sisters sound as great now as they did 40 years ago. Criminally underrated band.
yes indeed and they're touring again they put their Rift from about about two years ago aside which is great.. although it was scary for a while as much as they supported and loved each other through the years what drove them apart for a little bit
the sister bond is stronger than ever again
Plus 1 on that.
They are such a great band i completely agree, they drifted into being a circuit band, always playing, never topping the bill, criminally underrated is spot on correct.
@@truckerkevthepaidtourist Your right. Them and Rush. Took both of them 40 yrs to get into the Rock Hall of Fame.
How can one be underrated yet in the freaking Hall of Fame?
Don't be silly. If anything, Nancy is overrated as a guitarist. Ann is incredible.
I'm 73 years old and this is the greatest live performance I've ever heard of a rock song 💗
You know when you bring a tear to the eyes of Robert Plant and the exuberance to the face of Jimmy Paige you’ve performed a masterpiece of the masterpiece.
It’s amazing how Ann’s voice can hold off everything behind her in a live program… the walls of sound from the chorus and band is huge, and her voice is still there, clear and perfect…
Power, control, technique, feel and musicianship. Ann has a full tool box.
She was a ripe 62 years young and her voice didn't let her down she nailed it
I had to check because I used to listen to heart by way of my older sister who Ann is around 70 Not that age matters because even at 71 her voice is amazing. what real artist do they take care of their instrument and you can tell by her voice she hasn’t lost her power she’s incredible! in fact I think the band deserved more respect like some other bands from the 60s and early 70s they didn’t get their props the way they should of.
That’s an incredible vocal. Ann kicks some ass. She so good!
@@Vonnee62
Ann was 62 that night.
At work one night in the 80's listening to a radio show called Rock Talk. Heart was the featured band and Anne and Nancy were in the studio being interviewed and taking calls from fans. A fan called in and asked them if they thought they would ever record a Zeppelin song as they always ended their shows with a Zeppelin encore. Nancy related this story of their first outdoor concert. They had just released their first album and were the last band on for the evening. They finished their set and the crowd wanted more so they kept going. Long story to short, they played the entire album and the crowd still wanted more so Nancy went up to Anne and asked what they were going to do to which she replied "We were a cover band for years, why not?" So they closed out the night with Led Zeppelin left the stage and went to their trailer on an amazing high. They were sitting in the trailer soaking up the feeling when there was a knock at the door. They opened it to Jimmy Page standing there and he told them that was the first time he had ever heard anyone cover one of his songs and do it justice and he told them they had his blessings to cover him anytime. Adds a new dynamic to that performance doesn't it?
I would have s-t myself if Jimmy Page showed up backstage after I performed one of his songs.
Thanks for sharing this!
Wow, your story of Jimmy Page complimenting Heart gave me goosebumps, thank you.
I believe they were called little Zeppelin or something
... I would have to read the book again! If anybody else knows.... shout out
Love this response Robin. Bless you.
The Wilsons are the only ones who could pull this off. Robert is mesmerized.
tod dubow the song requires a heroic voice of the gods. Job done.
tod dubow Robert is not only mesmerized, he is emotional!!
So was I mesmerized! They did it up fine!
james pennington I was emotional lol
Tod. you got that right. Only Ann & Nancy could pull this one off.
I'm in awe of the guts it took to perform one of the (if not *the*) most iconic songs in rock history and to do it in front of the men who wrote it.
Ann Wilson brings Robert Plant to tears. That pretty much covers it
Chris Sadd Don’t be a twat waffle
@@passing_bye5991 I give you enough credit that you're just trolling.
@@passing_bye5991 If the original recording artist for this song had been Heart (instead of Led Zeppelin) and it was Led Zeppelin who was performing it in this video you would be remarking about Robert Plant's crappy vocal performance of it. 🤣😉😜
@@passing_bye5991 If you were to judge her performance in a vacuum you could not fault her vocal performance (unless she were singing off key, which she isn't). So, exactly how are you justified to fault her vocal performance in this video? With regard to what exactly?
according to Plant in a later interview it was seeing Jason Bonham on the drums made him think about John Bonham and thats what made him cry
The best "stairway" cover I have heard. Ann Wilson is one of the greatest vocalists in rock music. Nancy absolutely nailed the 12 string acoustic. Bonham made his daddy proud.
I like the Muppets version better ...
Mark Boyer And his fabulously talented Uncles Robert, Jimmy and Jonesy.
Looks like a 6-string to me. Great nonetheless.
Jason was playing his Dad's drum hit from back in the day!
The joy on Jimmy Page’s face is a wonderful thing.
Yes it is! I feel his childlike happines every time I see this video ❤
I loved the way he was grinning like a happy idiot!!!
Especially when the choir comes in and he is just in amazement of it all.And if you can read his 💋 👄..he says WTF.AHHH Ann and Nancy bheart can sleep at night now knowing they got a standing ovation from the band.Just great performance be had by all.
Did you notice him doing the count in his guitar solo?!
Yes, he was really beside himself - especially when the choir appeared. He nearly lept from his seat.
Ann Wilson is without doubt one of THE very best vocalists ever IMO
TheHumbuckerboy in my opinion too. 👍🏼
@ scott peitavino She is always so impressive : )
Man.. when she sang " to be a rock, and not to roll..." like it was her last chance.. I stood up in the middle of my living room... my daughter said " what... are you ... you ok?" Lol
@ Gregory 2Brown Great comment !
Totally
I'm baffled how anyone pulls off a performance like this. The choir, all those strings and brass, the way it all builds up, leaving space for the solos and vocals, giving Jason room for unbelievable drums. The magnitude of the arrangement is overwhelming. And somehow, not only does it not turn into a muddled mess, it's pure magic!
Talent and caring about your craft :) I'm also blown away the musicianship of this performance.
It's the difference between composition--writing the song, performance by the original artists, and the skills involved in creating an arrangement of the original composition and directing a far larger ensemble to perform a cover version--or to back up the original artists when they mature creatively and want to add more depth to their compositions. That's a tightrope to walk. And a damned impressive walk it is!
Not to mention the skills required of the guys running the sound board. The mix is perfect!
It's no surprise, all you wonder about in your statement can be attributed to Paul Shaffer. He's been pulling these things off for years. He is a master at arraigning and directing performances like this. He never gets enough credit for his work.
You have to give a shout out to the lighting guy too who broadened the focus as the song demanded. The camera guy took that and flashed images from the stage and to the members of Led Zeppelin who like us all were captured by the performance's greatness. I can't think of a better-executed broadcast than this one and can only imagine how much practice was needed by everyone involved to make something this good look so effortless.
People who like music think Heart were a decent but short lived group but people who know better know the truth, Heart are maybe the most underrated band ever. Hugely respected by other artists nowhere near as huge as they should be mainstream. This is quite simply, one of the best covers ever.
Having thought about my comment, maybe underrated is the wrong word, perhaps underappreciated is more accurate.
The way Jimmy stands up at the end he looks like an extremely proud parent applauding his kids at a school concert. When the writers of one of the best songs ever written give a cover of that song a standing ovation then there is no need for anymore analysis
This!
Ann said after the performance Robert came up to her and said "I usually don't like when people cover Stairway but ...tonite I liked it " Ann said ..." that was gold from the golden God ...sprinkled " I love that quote from Ann
the smiles on John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page and the tears in Robert Plants' eye's when he picked up on the Bowler Hats worn by the Choir, in tribute to John Bonham says it all....Heart has ALWAYS done a couple Zepplin tunes on their tours and Ann is friends with Robert.
Also when Jason looked towards the heavens thinking about his dad at end....i'll admit, i teared up
I did, too.
I never noticed the choir all wearing bowling hats like Jason is... it’s a huge tribute to Bonzo 👍
Long live Bonzo.
“Bowler” hat
The whole backdrop that raises to show the choir is also in the shape of bonzos hat
Bonzo's son and hat.
How the fuck did you miss it. There were hundreds of the hat wearing cunts singing with close ups of them.
There's nothing better than watching original artists genuinely enjoying someone else playing their music.
Hey Fil: I’ve found that a lot of younger people don’t understand music from the Golden Era of Rock: roughly from 1964 to 1984. For one thing, most local Gen-Xers (and those who are even younger) don’t know that Heart is from our hometown of Vancouver. Second - and this is really interesting- it seems that a lot of younger people don’t have the patience to listen to or watch performances of songs that are longer than 3 minutes. When I got my wife, who’s a Gen-Xer, to watch this tribute to Led Zeppelin, she said it was boring because it took so long to get to the fast part. Someone else who I showed it to - a Gen-Yer fellow from Eastern Europe whose second language is English - said: “I don’t like it, but I can see why you like it. It’s music from and for your generation”. It seems that the idea of music creating a journey and telling a story that builds and builds to a crescendo is a foreign concept to people who are post-Baby-Boomers. Songs like “Stairway to Heaven” and Gordon Lightfoot’s “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” were songs that transported people of my generation to a place that not only told a story, but conveyed a message and connected us together as a community. And listening to music on a home stereo was a communal experience shared by groups of friends who found common ground in the music they listened to. Today’s 16-second Tik Tok videos are a far cry from the days when we Boomers would listen to a complete album, almost in silence, as we connected with the music and each other.
Ann was born in San Diego, Nancy, in San Francisco.
Heart was formed in 1973 in Seattle.
They moved to Vancouver when Ann fell for the brother of a founding member, who had moved to Canada to dodge the Vietnam War draft.
That's such a narrow minded viewpoint.
Taylor Swift fans buy albums and she's a fabulous writer, producer, guitarist, and pianist.🤷
Oh, I'm 54, so a Gen X'er ( I think).
Perhaps you need to broaden your horizons.😉 Try 'The 'Long Pond Sessions' by Taylor Swift - she opening!
Eye opening!
Amen to baby boomers. I've seen first reactions from rappers, rockers, etc, and seen tears from them, younger people too. Really young!
Chills every time I hear this. Heart should get a Kennedy Center Honor just for this performance.
Standing ovation from John Paul Jones.
And around 10,000 others.
Glad you said that, John Paul was also integral here. Cheers to him as well, and to the late Bonzo, and am tickled to see all those bowlers on the choir, that Bonzo was famous for wearing. Such heart, pun unintended.
John Paul Jones is a very generous person, but getting any applause from him at all is the highest praise.
@@cqwt6103 That theater looks more like 2,000-ish, maybe 2,500. Unless you're also counting people watching at home, in which case the number would be way over 10,000.
Because Heart is awesome.
Having John Bonham's son on the drums tied the whole thing together
I did not know that. Fantastic.
And he's playing on the Ludwig orange plexi kit that the song was actually recorded on.
@@gatekeeper65 with Foreigner he was a very powerful drummer !check it out
The fact that Ann's voice still stands out above all others in the choirs shows what a spectacular vocalist she truly is.
Whoever did the arrangement of this experience is a musical genius. Full, multi-layered, cascade of instruments and vocals, all the parts - we climbed the stairway.
I know, right? The whole performance was a masterpiece.
Bravo and well done. Just give them the prize already 😅🏆🎉 Idk if there's a thing they could have done to make it any better.
Even more than the standing O, Jimmy Page's clear delight and Robert Plant's clear struggle to not break down in tears are the best signs of what a great job the ladies and the rest all did.
I mean no disrespect to any commenters-but my 💜 tells me that the sisters and, the son, had little fear about not measuring up. Perhaps, they were quelling that nauseating-tingling stage anxiety shadowing many an artist artist, but Ann & Nancy’s one direct path was to kill it...once firmly planted on stage.
This video has the 3 stages of emotion -
Yo Yo Ma in a groove
Bonnie Raitt rocking off her seat
Robert Plant in tears
Yes!!!
I was in high school when Stairway to Heaven was released. I remember my best friend and I discussing the song, right after its release, one morning while walking to school. I am now 67 years old. This performance always makes me emotional and teary-eyed. I think partly because of the performance itself. But also as an older person relating to older Plant, Page and Jones and how this must feel for them at this point in their lives.
Well said. I tear up every time I watch it.
I agree wholeheartedly. I'm almost 65.
I can't imagine that any young songwriter, when composing a song, could ever dream that their song would be so substantial 40-50 years later, people (of all ages) still love hearing it. That has to be so satisfying.
Ann Wilson's voice is so powerful and absolutely beautiful! She owned the audience and had them in a trance. The musicians and choirs were perfect. This is the best live performance I've ever seen! ♥️♥️♥️
Diane Malone “What About Love”?
@@eleatherman1 just made me vomit. A once proud band sells out to pop. Heart and Van Haggar, biggest sellouts to pop.
@@paulaglet4255 ... Do you play anything besides the radio? Shut your face... You sound like an idiot....
And she was 69 years old when she sang this cover!!! 👌🏾❤❤❤
@@nelcindasousa807 62
That performance just sends chills and goosebumps through me! Getting a standing ovation from Led Zeppelin themselves = you've reached the pinnacle.
The mighty Les Paul what a beast. The solo.
Definitely!!
The ovation was for John Bonham son playing the drums
Tom Veith - When did Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones, tell you this?
There has never been a cover like that. Just the way it kept getting bigger and bigger it's so impressive. Like a moment in history just happened.
What I really love about it is that the things they added sound great but never overpower or detract from the beauty or perfection of the original song!
The guy who plays the solo also kept the key elements there but played it in his own style.
Isn't that Craig Bartock playing guitar here? Not totally sure cuz I'm not super familiar with him and their line has changed so much over the years, but he was the last guitarist they had that I'm aware of
Can you make Robert Plant cry singing his song?
No, but Ann did!
Plant has suggested that he didn’t like the song that much...yet this still it caused him to tear up. Respect.
He cried because he didn’t know Jason Bonham was going to be playing. Not taking away from Ann though... she was incredible!
@@lc5929 No, Plant teared up because the choir was wearing the 'bonzo' hat.
Imagine the memories that must have been going round in his head.
Raja Vignesh oh my, I didn’t catch on to that symbolism 🎩 good observation
I have been a female fan of Ann's since I was 12 years old and first heard Dreamboat Annie. Her voice was amazing. It still is. I am 54 years old now and she still has been blessed with an amazing voice. This was her most stunning performance. My jaw dropped as I watched it live on the Kennedy Honors that year. She's my gal, and I'll be a fan forever. God blessed her with an amazing voice, and she was born to sing. You go girl! I don't think any band could top this.
This is the greatest cover IMHO. Consider this: they're playing infront of their President, infront of the remaining members of Zep, of having the son of the much missed and beloved drummer behind them and everyone is looking for flaws so they can say 'yeah, but it's not as good as the original'. Well, no it's not - it's a cover - but there are very, very few bands/singers that I'd credit to cover this particular song. Ann and Nancy have been covering Zep for years - often billed as the 'female' Led Zeppelin in their early years. Finally; the reaction from RP, JPJ and JP. The emotion that they demonstrate during this song. You can't fake that. You can't beat that...
I think they were called "Little Led Zep".
Well said!
Barry wasn’t the important thing here.
@@Happyheretic2308 That's a point: I'm sure they were a lot more nervous about what the old white British guys in the box would think.
Ann Wilson is in the pantheon of great and true vocalists. Ella, Streisand, Aretha, Ronstadt, a handful of others, but they dont come along too often.
Good start, but would also like to mention Patsy Cline, Dusty Springfield, Karen Carpenter, and Pat Benatar.
@@fastpony8127 The 2012 VH-1 Diva performance of Grace Potter with Nancy Wilson opening in support with her acoustic intro to Barracuda, followed by "Crazy on You" with Ann and Grace trading verses. The other 2012 divas would all rise to the top of their prospective genres. Katy Perry for pop, Nicki Minaj in rap and country's Keri Hilson. Potter blew them off the stage. You won't find a video of it anywhere online. Iit was briefly on UA-cam but got scrubbed, copyright struck, you name it, disappeared without a trace. The greatest rock band to pass by mostly unknown was Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. Here they perform "Paris", the same song they closed VH-1 with, but here they are on Letterman: ua-cam.com/video/W0IkH-t2T64/v-deo.html
one must remember that back in the Queen Ann possessed a 7 active voice..she still has almost 6 when she needs to bring it up which is amazing it almost 70 years old. not only are there Led Zeppelin covers amazing just simply Google heart covers and get blown away Classics from The who Elton John and so much more along with the great heart catalog too
Don’t forget Emmylou Harris!
Douglas Sanders yeah you kinda missed Sarah Vaughan. 5 octave range.
"Jim Parsons" kills it again on lead. With Heart, Jason on drums, plus the choir, this has to be the greatest cover in history.
Ok, thank you....I was like, "Is that Sheldon on guitar?!" 😂 An amazing performance by all, though, wow!
Certainly is, but it's a tribute not a cover.
Shane Fontayne on lead guitar.
I think he looks like that too. Rob Mathes the conductor arranger is such a phenomenal musician. Guitar fantastic pianist. I always look forward to kennedy center honors every year.
I forgot how strong Anne’s voice is. Time has not diminished her capabilities.
Hellowow 39....she never picked up a cigarette habit, unlike many other artists in her same era.....
The finest female vocalist in rock history. No one even comes close.
Rory Gallagherfan Janis?
@@drewm4355 Grace Slick was in the same ballpark. Anne gets the nod from me, however.
Rory Gallagherfan No one! By the way, your username says you have superb taste in guitarists.
I absolutely love how Jimmy Page is reacting. He seems less guarded than when he was younger and when he smiles, his face is like the sun. It’s beautiful to see.
It’s been decades since we worked together on Dog & Butterfly yet I most remember their warmth, their great humor, their boundless joy for performing - like it was yesterday. Amazingly they still give the same goosebumps; if anything, better. Forever grateful to Ann and Nancy.
Thats the first time ive ever noticed Jason seem to struuggle thinking about John.Everyone loves and misses their dad once he's gone, imagine the whole world constantly reminding you how great he was.
I don’t care what ANYONE says, ANN WILSON is THE ultimate female ROCKSTAR period, done . I will physically fight ANYONE who disagrees, TEXAS!
Lol
You said getting a standing ovation from Robert Plant and Jimmy Page..hmmm forgetting someone? Don't leave out Mr John Paul Jones ok he should always be in the equation.
Ann Wilson, Linda Ronstadt and Grace Slick. My top 3 female rock singers.
Haha I’ll back you up man!
Yeah,Nancy is a rockstar in her own right.
I am from Texas also,!
Shout out to the choir and backup vocals on this performance! Totally underrated and what really gave me chills!
As someone on the original video posted:
"You are watching Rock Legends,
cover Rock Gods,
in front of said Rock Gods,
on a night the Rock Gods are being honored for their rock godliness,
choosing the Rock Gods' most famous song.
And they slayed it."
sam signorelli watched by Rock fans
Not just covering said Gods. Worshipping.
perfect
Yep
You summed it up Nicely. Just for them to take on this challenge live Kennedy Center honors Led Zeppelin. No one else would’ve even tried. These girls have balls.
Who dislikes these videos? I been playing guitar for 37 years, and even though i don’t always dig the music he’s talking about, the dude is always spot on in his analysis. Great enthusiasm for the tunes. Respect man.
Agree.
You can always learn something new from Fil and that smile Alone says it all sometimes
There are always dislikes! 😅
@@wingsofpegasus
Well, young man, they just don't know what they're talking about. That's all. I don't know much about music. I'm that kind who just knows what they like, & that's about it. So half the time, I can't understand what you're talking about. But it's very obvious that YOU do! Rock! 🤟
one of the all time great rock performances. it felt like a precious gift that they presented to robert, jimmy and john. and we got to listen in.
I'm not ashamed to admit I cry every time I watch/listen to this stunning cover 👍
Each and every time. Like magic.
You're not alone!!!!
there are not many artist who could have pulled this off IN FRONT OF THE ORIGINAL BAND and get tears and a standing ovation at the end. HEART nailed it over the top
Not only is this a great performance, they both make it look incredible easy. Neither is straining. That's true artistry.
Jimmy Page is getting into it. Looks like he's mouthing the notes or frets or counting strings during guitar solo, but they look as impressed as anyone it appears if not more. Touching indeed☝️ Great job 👍 Fil as always.
Counting frets?! Counting strings?! Er I don’t think so.
@@thomasedmundrichardsyou know what Jimmy's not doing? Wow, what a smart ass. 🖕
Well I thought as well he was mouthing the chords.
@@Agucci_1 Thanks Angie. I think that makes sense and I sure can't see why not?
I think it's more than "Ann brought tears to Robert's eyes". I think the whole thing, the amazing choir, Jason up there, all of it added up to bring a tear to his eye.
I agree...it was the sum of the whole event and "Heart" pushed the emotions over the edge, for him(In my opinion)!!...👌👌👍👍🕺🕺
What impressed me the most was how Ann could--when she wanted--use exactly the same articulation and phrasing that Robert Plant used in the song, but she didn't do so throughout, adding instead her own flourishes and syncopations here and there. A very studied and masterful cover. She didn't "make it her own" the way Hendrix owned Watchtower, because that's not what was called for.
Note master cellist Yo Yo Ma in the crowd. What a glorious performance.
Bonnie Raitt is there too.
What did you say about my mother?
@@petercollins5861 not to forget Stephen Colbert
Love seeing him rock out.
Can't believe I missed that! I wondered who it was and as soon as I saw your comment I was completely AHA! YES! hahah Good catch.
Performing this in front of the surviving Zep members. No pressure...
Yep...none at all 😌😌
And also in front of the POTUS and FLOTUS... no pressure at all.
@@davidhapka5483
Oh yeah, Zep could get sloppy at times.
Skodaman2 Trump is the POS, no question. Trump makes Obama look like an absolute genius... Trump makes the average 3rd grader look like a college professor by comparison.
Skodaman2 hahahaha so true
Firstly, this performance is breathtaking. Secondly, your analysis of it helps the mind understand the Magic the ears have just experienced....as the senses are on maximum overload trying to drink it all in. I'm curious how many people listen to this orchestrated version a couple times in succession to "digest" it's sheer awesomeness. A very big WELL DONE to Led Zeppelin, Heart, & "Wings of Pegasus"....I bow before you all.
something else that makes this Zeppelin cover stand out
is the Audio Quality, it's so good that it sounds like it was done in a Recording Studio, and they're Live in a large Hall full of people. all the instruments,
and all the voices are mixed just right. often times recordings like this will be off in some way, but those Sound Technicians nailed it.
I was thinking about how everyone involved in this production, from the sound people, to anyone backstage was paying tribute. What a labour of love.
and the video production, all memorable
Keith Johnson - Well, it is Kennedy Center, not Billy Bob's Bar after all....
Thanks Fil, this has got to rank near or at the top of the best covers ever.
Not really a cover. They're just adequately staffed on stage to play it right.
FreeMpg Anytime Heart does Zeppelin , magic happens.
William Knell not really a cover? Explain...
@@williamknell864 say the hell, WHAT?!
Seeing Plant say “he’s bad” (which means he’s really good for those of us who weren’t around in the 60’s and early 70’s)when the electric guitar begins to take us to next level. I started to cry when I heard her sing. It reminds me of the little girl I was listening to am/fm portable radio. Before bed. I loved this song! And you are right there is no genre in this song. It has something for everyone. Thank you for your analysis of this performance. WATCH THE 2012 Kennedy Center Honor Led Zeppelin . Heart takes us to church with this performance!!
I have seen this 20+ times and always am mesmerized with a lump in my throat. Watching the reactions from everyone. The choral back up adds a other worldly spiritual experience also. Love this performance!
...and the hats!! A tribute to Bonzo Bonham. That probably touched me more than anything else.
Yes I got weepy, absolutely beautiful. What a stunning tribute. Thank you again.
I really don't even like this song. The only exception is their live version, and this cover. I almost cry every time I see it. Goosebumps :)
Yes, me too but hush. Everyone knows, big boys don't cry 😁
This song has been done to death, which makes it even harder to cover. Everybody knows how it’s SUPPOSED to sound. They remained true to the original while making it fresh. Adding that gospel choir was a stroke of genius.
And just imagine pulling it off for this crowd!
It was a genius move and I love how they come in at the end :)
Jason played his ass off to honor his father. Much respect. One of the great performances, with crowd reactions, you'll ever see all the way around.
What you said about Jimmy Page writing the solo being the important thing, reminds me about the old story about Ritchie Blackmore which goes something like this:
Somebody derides Smoke on the Water as being simple and "anybody can play it".
Blackmore responds something like this "But you didn't write it, did you? I did"
👍
Playing for the most part is easy. I'd rather be known for writing a classic than playing a classic.
That's the Truth of it. One of my bandmates told me in about 85, 86? We may as well forget writing songs, there were no good riffs left. Copying someone's genius may seem easy, having your own...not so much.
But now even Blackmore fell off the edge of earth. He's been playing renaissance music (medieval) Since early 90's That friggin music died out 400 years ago. Smh
Watched this live in 2012, and like everyone was amazed by the overall production. As mentioned, Ann & Nancy are incredible to start with, and what an undertaking this was: Heart, a symphony orchestra, amazing backing vocals (couldn't count how many during the song) and then a crowd,/choir at the end!! Not to mention the coordination of all this. The icing on the cake is of course, having Robert Plant and Jimmy Page right there, having them enjoying every note, and tears in Robert Plant's eyes! Amazing. Thank you for presenting this!
I once heard Robert Plant say he hated to hear someone else sing Stairway to Heaven. And if you look at the beginning of this video he does have somewhat of a sourpuss. John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page are smiling from the beginning. But once Ann Wilson starts to rock it, his facial expression does change to a smile. Almost a look of astonishment LOL I love this cover it's one of my favorite I watch it all the time on UA-cam. Thanks Fil ♥️
PS..... Jimmy Page is still just as sexy!
Vickie Byrd Ann is the only Artist that could cover Plant!
I agree ... Jimmy is sexy 😎
Jimmy is definitely sexy! That smile and confidence... meow 😻
Fil reminds me of him.
Mr. Plant was very taken by the performance and Mr page was very happy with it....choked me up...great job fil...rock on brother😎
...the Wilson sisters of HEART ar longtime Led Zep fans....have performed ROCK AND ROLL as an encore....for 40+ years.
I love the Wilson girls. But seeing Page enjoy it so much is what got me too. He usually just seems to be tolerating those lucky enough to get his company. (Just my opinion on his expressions. I really couldn't know.)
Mr. Plant was brought to tears by Jason Bonham playing in this tribute, he had no idea Jason was going to appear..
@RDE Lutherie respect
@@johnhudson551 yeah, in the beginning he had his hands over his face as though he was trying to contain himself, trying to stay composed.
I saw Led Zeppelin in the mid 70's. John Paul Jones played the acoustic intro, alone onstage sitting on a tall stool. Jimmy appeared for the loud parts. JPJ contributed more than he is usually credited for. It is his arrangements that help make Stairway and Kashmir, (and many more) the masterpieces they are. Hats off to a great band and a great rendition by Heart.
Recently saw (separate) interviews of Plant and Jason Bonham talking about Plant's tears here. I guess one of the reasons Plant was moved to the point of tears was because Zeppelin did not know Jason was going to be playing the drums.
I can't help but wonder what's going thru Plant's and Page's and Jones's minds, all the memories that must be connected to this song...to get to this place. And at the end when Jason looks up..damn. Awesome video.
A legendary band paying tribute to a legendary band by playing their greatest hit for them live and getting a standing ovation from them. Can't get any better than that.
Not only the standing ovation from Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and John Paul Jones but the smiles on their faces, that really tells a tale in itself.
Just about the most moving performance I’ve ever seen. Ann is in my top five vocalists with Robert Plant...
“Imagine how nervous Nancy must have been playing in front of Jimmy Page.“ Spoken like a true musician, Fil - never mind that the President and First Lady were in the front row, that’s Jimmy freakin’ Page!
Never mind Barry and Michelle. They aren’t the ones who matter.
Indeed - Don Felder was playing Hotel California in front of a bunch of stars and musicians, and was asked if it was easy since he had played it thousands of times over his career. He noted that Jimmy Page was in the audience, and with such a legendary guitarist watching, he felt some pressure to get it perfect. He notably said he'd rather be in the audience listening to Page playing Stairway to Heaven.
Nancys opening guitar work is simply incredible
Love Nancy.
Possumlove She is extremely underrated as a musician
And she has a great voice too.
@@Cmez872
No, she isn't.
I watch this video every frickin day. And I'm not a Zep fan. I am a Heart fan, however. Best cover of any song ever ever.
I’ve discovered it a week ago and I haven’t stopped watching I thought I was the only one 😂😂😂
I watch it almost every night before I go to sleep. It's so beautiful and I, like the audience have a smile on my face and a joyful heart! It just makes me happy.
Sound of silence cover by Disturbed live is pretty close. Wonderful performances
Whew, I thought I was the only person who admits to not being a fan of Zep in general. The Immigrant Song in particular makes me grind my teeth. But I am a huge fan of Heart and of this song. I think it is better sung by a woman and who better than Ann Wilson? No one.
One of the reasons Robert Plant looked like he was about to cry during the Heart tribute performance was because he had just prior to the show been talking to his bandmates about Jason. Robert Plant was best friends with the father, and told his bandmates that he regretted that they had not invited his son Jason to the Kennedy Center Honors to enjoy it on behalf of his Dad. Then he all of a sudden Jason appeared on stage with Heart and Robert Plant was overcome seeing him.
Robert is Jason's godfather.
@@MsWarriordiva Wow! I didn't know that- THANKS!
apparently Jason was in the green room prior to the performance and (I think it was) Robert wandered in to say 'hi' to everyone... just before he came in, someone said to Jason, "you're not supposed to be here, are you?" Jason dives over the back of the sofa and hides until Robert departs...
Jason was invited. He told them he could not make it. Surprise, surprise.
Yep. They wanted to keep it. A surprise, that even in the rehearsals they had Dave Grohl playing drums.
She's the only one that could have pulled this song off.
I could not agree more!
Agreed
Great choice! Probably the best cover of this iconic song. Ann Wilson "kills it".
If I was going to pick anyone to do a tribute to Led Zeppelin with this song, it would be HEART. This is my all-time most favorite song ever written and has been for over 40 years and this version brings tears to my eyes EVERY.SINGLE.TIME.
Something angelic in Jimmy Page's face as he is enjoying this tribute.
Yep...in my opinion, Jimmy is playing it in his mind along with him...
He’s a satanist unless he’s changed.
yes, he's just extactic
It's the tear in his eye. ;)
billybob lillybob absolutely!
This was an Epic Tribute to arguably the greatest rock & roll band ever. Heart’s rendition of arguably the greatest rock & roll song ever was impressive.
I am not into Zepplin but this is the greatest song ever written. Imho.
Indull Shade “ARGUABLY” is the key word here. Not sure what you are reading? Also never said “written”. My statements aren’t something that just materialized. It’s been stated many times by many in the industry. So LMFO.
@@Charlyky No argument here. I was backing up your statement.
Best reaction and breakdown to a classic..TY !
Thanks!
They have been doing Zeppelin covers since before they were Heart. They know this stuff inside and out.
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@@derekcurrent6353 ha! Being an electrician, I gotta compliment your awesome name....
Battle of Evermore *lights lighter briefly concerned about my flammable hair mousse*
Yeah , on their first Greatest hits their covered "Rock & Roll " live tribute to John , in late 1980 Remember?
Near the end Ann absolutely shreds it with her voice. HER VOICE! No words...
This was a visual treat as well as a treat for the ears. No one else can do justice to this iconic song as Ann has done. The standing applause from the three greats themselves is a testimony to Ann's prowess. Another thing I would like to add here without fail is the excellent analysis by Fil. He is the only person who really breaks down the whole song down to a simple level with his insight. Have seen a lot of wannabees giving their reaction to a song, and it always looks so pathetic, as they have no clue as to what they are saying.
Keep up the good work Fil.
Yes! Writing it in the first place! This transcends just guitar. This is the Hammer of the Gods!!!
Heart is basically just the female version of Led Zeppelin. Same folky tendencies, same clever use of time signatures, and both are some of the best bands of the 1970s. And Ann Wilson is one of the best rock vocalists of all time.
And Fil, have you checked out Polyphonic's "Strairway To Heaven: A Hero's Journey" video? It's one of the best videos on the site as far as music goes!
Yeah .♡♡
that's a good assumption but they're also part Moody Blues and Who..at least on Nancy's part she was a huge Moody Blues fan and you can hear a lot of Justin Hayward like strumming in her playing.
Well said.
When they were inducted to the R&R HOF Nancy said "We didn't want to marry the musicians in Led Zep, we wanted to "Be" them"
On Heart's 1995 unplugged album, The Road Home, John Paul Jones arranged music, and played various instruments including a mandolin. Heart did that album live with an orchestra. It's one of my favorite albums. They expand so much on their talents there. It seems they went from hit rock band to serious, accomplished musicians at that point. They are still touring and I see them ever time they come close enough to make it to a venue to see them.
Nancy Wilson has always been a greatly under appreciated guitarist...
Absolutely! Hope Fil can review her Crazy on You performance with Heart.
@@weeooh1 I've always liked their totally over the top Alone video, with Nancy doing her rock chick guitarist stuff, though I did wonder how many pairs of stockings she laddered during the filming process...😸 ua-cam.com/video/1Cw1ng75KP0/v-deo.html
Indeed
I was a bit disappointed that Nancy didn't get to play the solo part. I wasn't impressed with the player that did it
If anything, she is vastly overrated.
Seeing Robert Plant choked up and the pure joy on Jimmy Page's face, sent a chill up my spine.
I watched the Kennedy Center Honors that night it was broadcast and have looked at the You Tube video many times since.
Thank you FIL, for your usual wonderful insight.
David Hapka You said it all my friend!
I go back to this performance every now and then.. and every single time I get goosebumps! So so good. Heart and this band performed exceptionally good!
I liked this, Page and Plant were truly enjoying it'
Robert Plant actually hated this song, maybe he was enjoying watching someone else playing it, also Jason Bonham, Personally I loved it, It gave me a chill just like the original. Who better to cover this song than Ann an amazing vocalist and Nancy an amazing guitarist!
Plant was restrained from killing himself after seeing this. Just kidding. Not a comment on the rendition.
@@ajohn7215 I still don't understand why Plant disses this song. It's a rock and roll masterpiece and he wrote the lyrics. I know he thought it was overplayed but it was because it's so great. It's an epic accomplishment and it made him millions. I don't get it.
Jimmy was clearly loving it!
Absolutely brilliant everytime i watch this i get goosebumps that is a true sign of an emotional performance.