I get choked up every time I see this performance. It's one of the best live performances I've ever seen. Zeppelin in the balcony, Jason on the drums with his dad's hat, the choir, Plant crying, Page and Jones smiling from ear to ear, Ann Wilson singing her fkn heart out. Such a perfect show
I'm going to make this bold statement -- not only do I think this is the best cover of Stairway to Heaven, IMHO this is the best cover of ANY rock classic ever. This video brings tears to my eyes every single time I hear it.
Lets not forget George Michael singing *Somebody To Love for the Queen Tribute. There was no one else that could have brought that song to that level. This Heart performance and the George Michael performance were two of the best tribute songs I have ever seen. They were both music excellence! ( Quick mention Korn singing *One for the Metallica Tribute and Limp Bizkit singing *Sanitarium were also worth a watch)
I've heard that Robert Plants tears came after seeing the entire Choir revealed in the background wearing the bowler hats in tribute to John Bonham. They were best friends
Ah. Ears! I saw Philip Glass perform in the early 80s. The sound engineer, at his console, was onstage, front and center, as a member of the quite eclectic mix of musicians, vocalists, and various sound-makers. It stuck-out and stuck-with me as feeling unique. Not hidden in the pit, not all dark and shrouded, but dressed and lit, performing with the sounds throughout the show. Alas, memory... may have been the Koyaanisqatsi music. Oh, well. Good call!
Im a Huge L Z fan But to me this sounds better But it Has the extra people behind them I wish LZ had the back up in the 70s Then I would really LIKE L Z BETTER
My wife died of Cancer. In her last weeks she planned her funeral and Stairway was included. The night she died my girls were playing music she liked to try to calm her down. She died during Stairway. I cry every time I hear the song and especially this version. ❤️❤️
It’s amazing how music can leave such a lasting impact, whether joyful or sorrowful. I hope you are able to find peace through this song. May she rest in peace, I’m so sorry for your loss
Robert, Jimmy and John Paul all in attendance. The hat Jason and the choir wear is in homage to his father who used to wear that style hat a lot on stage. Jason is an incredible talent. It makes me smile to see Jimmy smiling and so closely studying the lead guitarist’s playing. Heart knocked this out of the park, just a spectacular performance. Robert and Jimmy were heavy musical influences for Ann and Nancy from very early on. Ann said she was always more influenced by male lead singers than female vocalists, especially Robert Plant.
I dont think its her voice that is the reason, but how the microphones are tuned.. at many places they can shut them down/turn them down so the frontperson is louder :)
@@jydeinden No s**t that microphones can be changed in volume, the fact still remains that her voice overpowers the choir. If you don't know what that means, it's okay, just learn more before being so confident next time.
It was a surprise to everyone that Jason was going to play drums on this song, apparently he even took out his dad's old derby hat for the performance. What is extra special is that John Bonham was Robert Plants best friend and after his passing the band was never the same. Plant was moved to tears this evening seeing his best friend and band mates son playing on stage with his dads hat on. Near the end of the song Jason looked up as to say Dad this was for you! Very powerful evening for all who witnessed this. Heart is a Class Act! GREAT REACTION GUYS.
Right, in general, the honorees never know who is going to pay tribute to them. Check out Cyndi Lauper’s tribute to Cher at the Kennedy Center Honors. Worth a Female Friday reaction!
And if I recall right, Plant asked Jason to be there and Jason - knowing he was going to be performing there - told him he had a prior commitment and couldn’t attend because he wanted to be a surprise. Hence the joyful surprised look from Plant when they announced Jason - who is Plant’s godson - on drums. Just a beautiful, emotional, perfect performance.
Not just "Dad, this is for you", but also to tell John Paul, Jimmy and especially Robert- his godfather- that he loved them. Unlike many bands who lose a sibling, these guys have stayed with Jason throughout his life and have always been there for him. They are all family.
it's very seldom that a cover ever compares favourably with the original, especially Led Zeppelin songs, but this version must be the best one ever done. The very fact that the band members gave them a standing ovation says it all and to see Jason Bonham standing in for his father the way he did was just so emotional for me. Pure artistry.
i had always said 2 songs should never be covered on pain of death Led Zep's "stairway" Lennons "Imagine" then i heard Eva Cassidy sing imagine then a friend sent me a link to hearts version of stairway (he was close to being so dead for recommending it) boy was i wrong must have seen it 100 plus times now, tears still flow, awe is still struck,
When I saw this the first time, I had to give it to the guy playing the solo. I mean, not only is he on stage in front of the president of the United States and a whole bunch of celebs, he's playing one of the most iconic guitar solos of all time in honor of the true guitar legend who played it first. Imagine the pressure he was under. Those are gigantic shoes to fill, and he made it look easy.
YES!! I thought the same thing when I first watched it. They are the musicians for every Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, and they always kill it. I believe they’ve done other work-the drummer I’ve seen in previous years briefly toured with The Smashing Pumpkins during the years when Jimmy Chamberlin was not with the band. So I feel like they’re all accomplished musicians in their own right. 🙂
I admire not only his playing but the guts to play Jimmy Page's music IN FRONT OF THE MAN HIMSELF!!! I'd never have the guts to do that even if I could!!😮😮😮😮😨😨😨
ikr, this can't be overstated. when I was a teen in the 80's and would go into music stores there would always be a sign saying "no stairway" cuz the staff would be so sick of hearing people (trying) to play this solo on the guitars, this is THE most iconic rock song ever (debatable, but I think most would agree). To play that solo in front of Page and the world, come on, the absolute definition of pressure.
Ann was in her early 60s in this performance, and she slayed. Her voice has deepened and mellowed over the years, but it hasn't lost an ounce of its power.
I know some Motown, gospel or blues fans may disagree but to me Ann is the female vocal G.O.A.T. 70 now and she can still out sing 99% of the music industry.
@@gmc6790 Ann is the GOAT in the Rock genre but Aretha, Patti Labelle, Etta James all greatly influenced Ann. Ann is 🔥 but can't put her above the roots that bare the fruits. None of whom zi mentioned were Motown artists BTW. I am more of a fan of non Motowm black artsts from that era. Motown waa designed to crossover toba white audience, in other words watered down.
FUN FACT: In the 70's, Heart was often referred to as "The Female Led Zeppelin". The Wilson Sisters have covered a lot of Led Zeppelin songs over their career so they were the perfect choice for this honors performance.
I was going to mention this too... good thing I scrolled down so I didn't steal your point. I'm in my mid-60s and remember Heart on the radio every few minutes in the '70s, being compared to Zep.
I have seen this a million times. I always cry. Ann and Nancy Wilson are just so super special. Absolute treasures. This performance was one in a million.
Keep in mind- Ann Wilson was 62 when they performed this. Robert Plant has said he HATES when people cover this song- but loved this version. There is a longer version of this performance when you see the reaction of other celebrities in the audience...but the one they do show is classical cellist Yo Yo Ma. I LOVE his reaction. I probably watch this video at least once a month, and saw Heart in concert a few years ago and they ended the show with it. AMAZING. Best cover of a song EVER.
@@MrWhoevr The setting is not nearly as grand and there is no chior, but the Lincoln Lab Band does a great cover of this song. You should consider checking it out on RUclips.
Only Ann Wilson could have sang that as a tribute. What an outstanding performance. I love the Kennedy Center Honors. A very special award. Great reaction!!
She and her sister screwed the pooch when they fired one of the best bands EVER! For the last twenty something years, their performances were kinda a sad tribute and a , can you imagine how great they could have been if they had been willing to compromise sense Roger ACTUALLY founded Heart to begin with.
I appreciate Ann Wilson's recognition of the moment. She is a legendary front woman and could have easily overpowered the song with her dominating vocals and presence. But she recognized, and played her part like the goddamn professional she is! Love this reaction.
This was one of the best tributes ever. Stairway to heaven has been chosen many, many times as the best rock song EVER! And there is nobody who can pay tribute to that great band Led Zeppelin other than Ann and Nancy Wilson from HEART. These were legends paying tribute to legends. Once in a lifetime presentation. Another Kennedy Center tribute suggestion: Adam Lambert singing Believe; paying tribute to CHER. That's another incredible presentation.
Heart is the only band who can sing this masterpiece with the respect it deserves. Mind blowing performance, especially wearing the John Bonham hats at the end. ❤️
I love how Page, like the professor so proud of his students. Mouthing the notes and fingering on the guitar solo. Never fails to make me cry tears of joy.
To put this performance in context- This was performed to honor the band Led Zeppelin when they were awarded "Kennedy Center Honors" It was performed in front of the three remaining living members of the band - John Paul Jones, Robert Plant and Jimmy Page--- the three older gentlemen featured on camera several times. Led Zeppelin gave Heart a standing ovation for the performance of one of their signature songs. "The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual honor given to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture. The honors have been presented annually since 1978, culminating each December in a star-studded gala celebrating the honorees in the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C. "
I am glad you pointed that out. I don't think they realized that Led Zeppelin was sitting there themselves. The emotion they were picking up was the tribute to these guys, one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Thanks for truncating my thoughts. This wasn't a cover, it was a brilliant tribute. Aretha singing "Natural Woman" at The Kennedy Center should be their next Female Friday reaction. ✌️❤️
Their standing ovation was for the drummer, Jason Bonham, son of Led Zeppelin's original drummer John Bonham. Ann Wilson's vocal was mediocre at best. I've heard her do better.
@@leahrosamilia8006 if you want to see one of the best Kennedy Center rock and roll performances ever, check out Aerosmith's Steven Tyler singing the Abbey Road medley at the Kennedy Center honors for Paul McCartney.
This was an incredible moment in recent rock history. They did the song justice for sure. But I’m excited for you guys to hear the Zeppelin version, which is arguably the most iconic rock song of all time. EVERYBODY who grew up with rock knows this song. That’s why this performance meant so much to the audience that night and to everyone watching.
Def I just hope they do a live version, Heart we’re amazing but the original can never be beaten, this is the iconic of iconic songs, probably gets voted as the greatest song ever at number 1 than any song, everyone has an opinion, but it’s that level of royalty…
Stairway has been #1 on top 100 of all time forever. That's how huge this song is. Heart are huge Zep fans and have worked with them. They are not strangers, but Heart are fangirls. This is the only professional performance of Stairway by anyone other than Zep.
Amber is so precious when she gets emotional like that. I feel you girl! You are SO good at reading and articulating the emotions which is a big reason why I watch y'all's channel. Both of y'all are good at that. Y'all are going to have to come back and watch this again after seeing the original Led Zeppelin version. I was a kid when the original was popular on the radio and hearing this always makes me cry like a little baby! It's sooooo beautiful, in so many ways. Ann's belt is powerful and her vibrato is EXQUISITE! Y'all need to scoot it back to 7:05. Y'all were jamming out and you missed a sweet interaction between John, Jimmy and Robert. The members of Led Zeppelin were very close, truly like a family. They were notoriously fond of one another and had such an amazing symbiotic relationship and dynamism between them. It's always wonderful to watch them together. Even John, who is usually so stoic, was all smiles at this performance. Also, Robert Plant is an ENFP (in the Myers Briggs Type Indicator) which means he's a strong Introverted Feeler and you can just feel the emotion welling up inside him before the tears come. It makes my heart both melt and sing every time I see it! Also, please tell me you recognized President Barak Obama and First Lady Michelle. This event was HUGE! That shows you the reverence. commanded by Led Zeppelin and Heart both.
Many would argue that "Stairway to Heaven" is the greatest Rock n Roll song of all time! The sister`s hit a home run honoring Zeppelin, with them in attendance!
There isn't another group of people that could have pulled this off as well as they did. And it always hits me in the feels near the end when Jason looks up towards Heaven almost like he's saying " You made it up the Stairway Dad". 💞
Ann and Nancy Wilson, A.K.A. Heart, are top tier professionals and even after all these years Ann is still one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Her skill and power is amazing.
The best part about this video for me is watching Robert Plant's reaction. When you can bring the original artist to tears performing his song, you're doing something right. Ann absolutely nailed it.
I have seen this so many times, and I cry every single time. This song is even more poignant to me because the original Led Zeppelin song was still pulled up on my son's computer when he died, it was the last song he listened to and I know he left it as a message for me that he was going on ahead to the next adventure of his soul and would be okay. He was very ill with congestive heart failure, only 31 when he died.
Sharilyn Bratton , you have my deepest condolences . I too , cry every time I hear this song , and I have also lost a son . Stairway has been my favorite song since I was14 .
It is the best cover ever..even better with the band there and the late John bohams son Jason on drums ..dad would be so proud...and the guitarist wow.on point all the way...this old bitch still loves her rock
I’ve seen Heart four times live. They are in my top 3 bands. John Paul Jones from Zep has worked with them. They are huge Zep fans. They’ve toured with Jason Bonham. This couldn’t have been planned better. Heart is the only band who could perform a tribute to Zep and get away with it. And what a perfect choice for a female Friday 😊And this was the shortened version.
Guy from germany here who has only seen them once performing live, but has every record, every movie and every known bootleg and every super 8 "video" that has ever been recorded.
I had tickets to see Led Zep but the show was cancelled because of the drummer's death. I saw Heart and they did do Rock and Roll. When I saw Robert Plant alone I was a little disappointed because his voice wasn't up to snuff and Stevie Ray Vaughan was the opener and super pumped up the audience.
Being from Seattle and 60, I had lots of opportunities to see them. Probably 10 or more times! They plagued many Zeppelin covers. When they were starting out in the 70,s, Exp covers helped them to get popular. I wasn't a big Obama fan, but they sure brought in some amazing music! Several like this that were one-of-a-kind experiences. This was a great tribute to a great band.
I first saw this on TV when it first aired and I was just blown away. Brought Robert Plant to tears Ann Wilson is the only other one that could pull this off. It still gives me goose bumps! Love Led Zeppelin and Heart since I was a teenager in the 70's. Still listen to them today
This is my absolute FAVORITE tribute performance at the Kennedy Center. I've read that Ann Wilson actually had the flu at the time, yet she KILLED IT. Such a beautiful and powerful performance by Ann, Nancy, Jason and the rest of the musicians and singers. And Led Zeppelin absolutely LOVED it. Thanks for this one, and you definitely must listen to the original to fully appreciate how great this Heart tribute was.
Can you imagine how they pitched it to him? "Hi, Shayne Fontaine? Wanna perform at the Kennedy Center Honors? You'll play THE most legendary guitar solo ever, in front of The Legend himself. And he WILL study your performance. No pressure!"
Yeah, I can't imagine. It's not a very difficult solo, but I'm not sure I could play ANYTHING in front of Mr. Page. Much less something he wrote. I would've been more nervous being Nancy Wilson playing the iconic arpeggiated acoustic in the intro, I would've surely fucked it up.😆
Not really Mary....EVERY guitar player can play Stairway.....the challenging issue here is WRITING Stairway...do that and you too will achieve greatness!!!!
At around the 9:00 minute mark, Jay has that out of body experience when you hear Ann Wilson hit that high note and sustains it and then move above it when she deliveries " To be a rock, and not to roll " for the first time. Her voice is absolutely stunning and there aren't very many vocalist that can put you through so many emotional changes as Ann Wilson can, She truly has a gift and this performance shows the full package....Aloha
It’s so strange to me that you’re watching a tribute cover of a song you’ve never heard! Also, this song is consistently voted the #1 classic rock song of all time in all polls. It’s not my favorite Zep song but it’s a blowout insane cover. Ann is the bomb.
This is widely considered to be if not the greatest rock song ever written, at least in the top 3. The orchestra, the choir and Ann Wilson’s vocals makes it absolutely soar. A masterpiece.
Brings me to tears everytime. Always loved Jimmy,s face during the solo as if he's dissecting every molecule thinking don't you mess up my baby. Gold Standard performance.
Yes, DEFINITELY listen to Led Zep's original masterpiece. But listen to the studio version first. THAT is the masterpiece!!! Get to know it the way my generation did. Then enjoy whichever live version you can find.
I find myself coming back to this song over and over again. Ann Wilson just slays this song with such emotion and power. Brings chills every time. And I understand Amber’s reaction because I get the same way at the end too.
When you do the Led Zeppelin original version of Stairway to Heaven don't try to judge. Just keep in mind, that Led Zeppelin created this song for the 3/4 piece band and nobody did it justice until this tribute and the enhancements of orchestra and choir brought to this the next level. It is the brilliance of the original song that allows the enhancements work.
To me the best version of this song is the Led Zeppelin 1973 performance at Madison Square Garden. That one is amazing especially Jimmy Page's guitar solo.
I don't understand not listening to the original artist's studio version first. Especially on such a classic. Oh well. You're right. This is truly the one time you can say a cover of this song did justice to it. It did more, it glorified it. Celebrated it. If it was me though, I'd prefer to go more chronologically from origin to honouring it. But to each their own.
😳 No pressure there! Just sing this legendary song and play that guitar solo in front of the icons of rock...and the way Jason looked up towards Heaven at the end like he was saying "You made it up the staircase dad" hit me hard.
The fact that you’ve never heard the original Zeppelin version just 🤯, you have to hear Jimmy Page shred the guitar and Robert Plant wail. Hearts version is also great, Anne Wilson has one of the best female voices in Rock. RIP Bonzo, best drummer EVER!
IMHO Ann Wilson is the greatest female rock singer EVER! The endless hours I listened to their music when I was in my 20s and 30s. I’ve seen them three times in concert, twice in Seattle and once in Tokyo.
I've watched this a hundred times and cry every time. Stairway is THE ultimate rock song from THE ultimate rock band. Covering Stairway has always been sacrilege lol But if anyone was going to do it, it might as well be Heart. It was such a beautiful tribute to them...I know you haven't really explored them yet, but just know that they've influenced generations of bands, across all genres. They were in the balcony watching the product of everything they did and were. It's a beautiful thing, well deserved.
Bingo. Its sacrilege, frankly a running joke that you show how clueless and bad you are at music, if you sit down and start strumming this in a guitar shop, or heaven forbid play it in a bar or at a wedding. Because you'll SUCK and embarass yourself. Unless you're Heart. Actually, because she changes the arrangement and is a musical genius, Dolly Parton, of all people, does one of the few other good covers of it.
Ann Wilson ROCKED that song. They all did. The guitar solo and the choir coming in stirs it up to a whole other level. And seeing John Bonham's son playing the drums and looking heavenward at the end before playing the last bit makes me cry every time. I LOVE this performance. It's perfect. (And I love seeing the band members reacting. It's so fun and heartening.) Thank you so much for reacting to this song.
Just so ya know, Heart was chosen to perform for this because of their special relationship with Zeppelin. They used to perform "Rock and Roll" to warm up before concerts and it became a fan favorite. It was so often requested, they finally published a live version from a concert for their 1980 greatest hits release. My favorites showing their instrumental and vocal skills, as well as their songwriting abilities is the combination of Sylvan's Song/Dream of the Archer. I think this somewhat obscure portion of the album is some of their best work. From the 1977 album "Little Queen". My favorite album from Heart.
Honorable mention........... EVERYBODY ON STAGE, especially ANN WILSON! I am proud to be an American honoring, arguably, the greatest rock-n-roll band from across the pond in this fashion. Everybody who had a hand in orchestrating this extravaganza should be so very, very proud of themselves. Not sure how much rehersel time was put into this event, but it must have been a lot based on how well it turned out. Best honoring performance I have ever seen in my 65 years of life! Great reaction guys.
Amber, we were ALL with you in our tearful, overwhelming reaction to greatness. I've watched the original Kennedy Centre version, and reactions like yours, hundreds of times and my personal reaction is the same, every single time. This performance is like some musicians strode down from Mt. Olympus for one mind-blowing performance and left us mere humans gasping for air having witnessed this incredible performance to the gods. Is it possible to top this???
When anyone learns guitar, it's this songs first chords people play. On the movie Wayne's World, Mike Myers went into a guitar shop, picked up a guitar, and started with the first chords to Stairway to Heaven. Yes, please react to the original because you can't call yourself a rocker until you've listened to Stairway to Heaven, from the Zeppelin.
Nah, the first song that people learn how to play is "Smoke On the Water" ... unless they have an acoustic, in which case "Stairway to Heaven" is right up there as the most common first song.
Stairway to heaven is one of the first songs that you want to play but it is not such an easy song for a begginer. Smoke on the water was the one and in more modern days is Wonder wall. Stairway have some difficulties, needs a descend ability to play the arpeggios and of course if you want to play all guitar parts you have to be in a good level.
Okay then, y'all want to debate it, all right. I guess I should have said is this, everyone I know who's a beginner with the acoustic guitar learns and plays Stairway to Heaven first.
This was a performance of a life time. The story of Zep is amazing, as is their music, but this performance tied the past and the current into a special gift. Watching Jason look up to his father at the end was a goose bump moment.
I KNEW your reaction to this masterpiece would be magically special & neither of you disappointed. The reverence, the appreciation, the respect, the enjoyment, the emotion! I swear I thought Amber was gonna cry at one point but she held it together like the professional she is. You guys deserve all the praise you get.
Big Led Zepplin fan, but this is probably my favorite version of "Stairway To Heaven" so far. Ann Wilson knocked it out of the park, and seeing John Bonham's son, Jason on drums, made me cry like a little bitch :)
It takes supreme confidence to try and cover any Zeppelin song but especially Stairway,arguably the greatest rock song ever made. This arrangement is absolutely mind blowing. Adding the orchestra, choir and Jason Bonham was more than I could bear. I'm speechless in front of my computer! The Wilson sisters brought this song to a level that had to make the members of Zeppelin so proud! There is no number to rate this, no words to describe it. I'm emotionally drained and flat out floored!! Simply a tremendous performance! Not to mention Jason Bonham and the choir all wearing bowlers hats as a tribute to the legend John Henry "Bonzo" Bonham!! I'm awestruck!!! Oh and how could I forget Ann Wilson a 60 + year old woman singing like she's 20 years old! Like the Wilson sisters said when they first saw the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan show,they stated they didn't want to date the Beatles, they wanted to be the Beatles! Make a band and perform on stage like them. Well they played at The White House in front of The President and Led Zeppelin!! Ann, Nancy, you made it girls!!! What a show stopper!!! One of the single best performances I have ever seen!! Check out Hearts version of Going to California an acoustic number from led Zeppelin 3. The Wilson sisters knock it out of the park again!!!
I have seen this performance over a dozen times now, and it still sends literal chills up my spine and almost brings me to tears every time. I can't explain why... It just does.
On drums is original Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham's son Jason. Jason is wearing John's hat and is playing John's drum kit. The other 3 members of Zeppelin didn't even know Jason was going to be there.
Did you notice Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones (all of whom were wearing Kennedy Center Honors medals) in the stands, appreciative of Heart's cover of their classic song?
Wow!!!!!!! I grew up listening to Heart, and the good old stuff. This is a peek into Heart's real genius! Pure talent. Through all of the drugs, alcoholism, and pain, Heart kept that pure talent alive!!! Ann Wilson is so amazing!! She is timeless figure that all musicians should try to emulate if they dare to try. Thanks!!
I've been a fan of Zeppelin for 5 decades, "Stairway to Heaven" is a big part of the soundtrack of my youth. I've also been a fan of Heart for a little over 40 years. The ladies have stated many times that Led Zeppelin was a major influence to the band. They've covered Zeppelin songs many times at their shows, in fact when I saw them in 1977 they covered "Rock n Roll" to close out the show on the night Elvis died. I highly suggest you look into interviews with Ann & Nancy about this evening. You'll get an inside look into how nerve wracking this night was. By the way your faces when Ann started singing were priceless, I have seen this video 200 times and I get chills everytime.
I get choked up every time I see this performance. It's one of the best live performances I've ever seen. Zeppelin in the balcony, Jason on the drums with his dad's hat, the choir, Plant crying, Page and Jones smiling from ear to ear, Ann Wilson singing her fkn heart out. Such a perfect show
Jason looking up... oh man...
It’s like the other groups,came out, did their thing. Then Heart comes out like,”pay attention children, THIS is how you do it “
Underrated comment.
I'm going to make this bold statement -- not only do I think this is the best cover of Stairway to Heaven, IMHO this is the best cover of ANY rock classic ever. This video brings tears to my eyes every single time I hear it.
Not a cover, but a tribute from friends.
Youre wrong but I forgive you
@@MadMax-ut2wc You're the one with the hot take on this one bud
heck yes!
Lets not forget George Michael singing *Somebody To Love for the Queen Tribute. There was no one else that could have brought that song to that level. This Heart performance and the George Michael performance were two of the best tribute songs I have ever seen. They were both music excellence! ( Quick mention Korn singing *One for the Metallica Tribute and Limp Bizkit singing *Sanitarium were also worth a watch)
Ann Wilson brought Robert Plant to shed a tear! She had brass balls to sing this song in front of them. She did an amazing job.
Totally agree but they both had them through out career
More likely seeing John Bonnan's (Bonzo) son playing the drums doin his dad proud !
Robert Plant is not a fan of covers of this song. But he said himself he was blown away by Heart and this entire ensemble.
I've heard that Robert Plants tears came after seeing the entire Choir revealed in the background wearing the bowler hats in tribute to John Bonham. They were best friends
ruclips.net/video/5VH6k9OcjEk/видео.html
Dude don't ever forget lucky you are to have amber... she's something special....!
Remember Anne Wilson was 62 years young when she belted out this song!!!!!
Let's not overlook Nancy Wilson's beautiful guitar work. The opening riff was gorgeous.
Yes, it was!
Heart is the greatest female band not to take away from their background musicians who are phenomenal.
Indeed. She nailed it in front of Jimmy Paige. Most impressive. He gave it a standing ovation.
The sound engineer should be honored him/herself for keeping the choir, an orchestra, a rock band and Ann's mighty voice all clear. Kudos to all!
Ah. Ears! I saw Philip Glass perform in the early 80s. The sound engineer, at his console, was onstage, front and center, as a member of the quite eclectic mix of musicians, vocalists, and various sound-makers. It stuck-out and stuck-with me as feeling unique. Not hidden in the pit, not all dark and shrouded, but dressed and lit, performing with the sounds throughout the show. Alas, memory... may have been the Koyaanisqatsi music. Oh, well. Good call!
I like her but I prefer the original version by Led Zeppelin, it's what I grew up with.
That is such a FANTASTIC mix!!!
Amen to that
Im a Huge L Z fan But to me this sounds better But it Has the extra people behind them I wish LZ had the back up in the 70s Then I would really LIKE L Z BETTER
Yes... crying IS the correct reaction!
My heart is full knowing that both of you young folks appreciated this amazing performance as much as this 70 yo lady.
Watching Robert Plant shed tears. She didn't just sing the song, she understood the lyrics he wrote. She felt and lived them.
YES MAM, SHE DID.
Definitely!
💯 this performance is an absolute guilty pleasure of mine. Amazing performance, amazing song, amazing bands
I had read somewhere that Robert Plant lost his son not long after the drummer passed away so I'm sure this all brings back those memories.
Jimmy deserved TWO guitarists throughout, no matter, still the best tribute ever given
To have the balls to sing Stairway in front of Led Zeppelin...Ann and Nancy NAILED IT.
Yes, they did!
Yes they did i would be scared to death that i would mess up
My wife died of Cancer. In her last weeks she planned her funeral and Stairway was included. The night she died my girls were playing music she liked to try to calm her down. She died during Stairway. I cry every time I hear the song and especially this version. ❤️❤️
So sorry for your loss this is a beautiful song and a lovely tribute.
She climbed the stairway to Heaven. I’m so sorry she passed, but at least she’s no longer suffering.
So sorry for your loss...te abrazo fuerte desde Argentina
Cancer touches all our lives in one way or another. Sending much love and respect my friend.
It’s amazing how music can leave such a lasting impact, whether joyful or sorrowful. I hope you are able to find peace through this song. May she rest in peace, I’m so sorry for your loss
Robert, Jimmy and John Paul all in attendance. The hat Jason and the choir wear is in homage to his father who used to wear that style hat a lot on stage. Jason is an incredible talent. It makes me smile to see Jimmy smiling and so closely studying the lead guitarist’s playing. Heart knocked this out of the park, just a spectacular performance. Robert and Jimmy were heavy musical influences for Ann and Nancy from very early on. Ann said she was always more influenced by male lead singers than female vocalists, especially Robert Plant.
And the whole choir wearing the bowler hats - what a moment!
Truth! good context addition 🙂
'Nuff said!
Also the drums he played belonged to his dad.
+great song , thanks
You bring in the fact that Ann Wilson overpowers a 100 person choir and that is a testament to her voice!
I dont think its her voice that is the reason, but how the microphones are tuned.. at many places they can shut them down/turn them down so the frontperson is louder :)
@@jydeinden No s**t that microphones can be changed in volume, the fact still remains that her voice overpowers the choir. If you don't know what that means, it's okay, just learn more before being so confident next time.
Greatest cover of Stairway To Heaven period! ❤🎶🤘
@@Sacred_Silence Don't like being wrong huh?
It was a surprise to everyone that Jason was going to play drums on this song, apparently he even took out his dad's old derby hat for the performance. What is extra special is that John Bonham was Robert Plants best friend and after his passing the band was never the same. Plant was moved to tears this evening seeing his best friend and band mates son playing on stage with his dads hat on. Near the end of the song Jason looked up as to say Dad this was for you! Very powerful evening for all who witnessed this. Heart is a Class Act! GREAT REACTION GUYS.
Right, in general, the honorees never know who is going to pay tribute to them. Check out Cyndi Lauper’s tribute to Cher at the Kennedy Center Honors. Worth a Female Friday reaction!
And if I recall right, Plant asked Jason to be there and Jason - knowing he was going to be performing there - told him he had a prior commitment and couldn’t attend because he wanted to be a surprise. Hence the joyful surprised look from Plant when they announced Jason - who is Plant’s godson - on drums. Just a beautiful, emotional, perfect performance.
Even part of the choir had derby's on
He is playing his fathers drum-kit too.
Not just "Dad, this is for you", but also to tell John Paul, Jimmy and especially Robert- his godfather- that he loved them.
Unlike many bands who lose a sibling, these guys have stayed with Jason throughout his life and have always been there for him. They are all family.
it's very seldom that a cover ever compares favourably with the original, especially Led Zeppelin songs, but this version must be the best one ever done. The very fact that the band members gave them a standing ovation says it all and to see Jason Bonham standing in for his father the way he did was just so emotional for me. Pure artistry.
I've read in comments that he has toured and performed with Heart. Not sure how often or for how long.
It was a tribute not a cover. Ann marked every syllable with the same emphasis and tone that Robert Plant sang. They were magnificent.
i had always said 2 songs should never be covered on pain of death
Led Zep's "stairway"
Lennons "Imagine"
then i heard Eva Cassidy sing imagine
then a friend sent me a link to hearts version of stairway (he was close to being so dead for recommending it)
boy was i wrong must have seen it 100 plus times now, tears still flow, awe is still struck,
These women are in their sixties while performing this ! And still amazing !!!!
The only remake that equils the original.She bought the original singer to tears up there on the balcony.Flawless
Respectfully I disagree. There’s only one Robert Plant. And she needs the choir behind her to try and match the power of his voice
@@dannysalamon5731 Well I agree that there's no one who compares to plant but I dont think anyone else could have done it justice like heart.
That's not true, the reason he cried is because Jason Bonham was there, robert himself told howard stern
@@dannysalamon5731 You're a fool.
equils
When I saw this the first time, I had to give it to the guy playing the solo. I mean, not only is he on stage in front of the president of the United States and a whole bunch of celebs, he's playing one of the most iconic guitar solos of all time in honor of the true guitar legend who played it first. Imagine the pressure he was under. Those are gigantic shoes to fill, and he made it look easy.
He killed it
Wasn't that Sheldon from Big Bang?
YES!! I thought the same thing when I first watched it. They are the musicians for every Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, and they always kill it. I believe they’ve done other work-the drummer I’ve seen in previous years briefly toured with The Smashing Pumpkins during the years when Jimmy Chamberlin was not with the band. So I feel like they’re all accomplished musicians in their own right. 🙂
I admire not only his playing but the guts to play Jimmy Page's music IN FRONT OF THE MAN HIMSELF!!! I'd never have the guts to do that even if I could!!😮😮😮😮😨😨😨
ikr, this can't be overstated. when I was a teen in the 80's and would go into music stores there would always be a sign saying "no stairway" cuz the staff would be so sick of hearing people (trying) to play this solo on the guitars, this is THE most iconic rock song ever (debatable, but I think most would agree). To play that solo in front of Page and the world, come on, the absolute definition of pressure.
Ann was in her early 60s in this performance, and she slayed. Her voice has deepened and mellowed over the years, but it hasn't lost an ounce of its power.
I know some Motown, gospel or blues fans may disagree but to me Ann is the female vocal G.O.A.T. 70 now and she can still out sing 99% of the music industry.
Her voice will only get better as she gets older.
The Wilson sisters (HEART), Stevie Nicks, and Pat Benatar are my 3 (4 technically) fav female rockers!!! 34 y/o dude here stating this proudly.
Habeev07, how about Signe Toly Anderson of Jefferson Airplane?
@@gmc6790 Ann is the GOAT in the Rock genre but Aretha, Patti Labelle, Etta James all greatly influenced Ann.
Ann is 🔥 but can't put her above the roots that bare the fruits. None of whom zi mentioned were Motown artists BTW. I am more of a fan of non Motowm black artsts from that era. Motown waa designed to crossover toba white audience, in other words watered down.
That is single handedly my favorite Kennedy Center Honors Performance ever! Heart did that song complete justice
yes sir. my very favorite as well. Monumental comes to mind. DAMN.
Might be my favorite rock live performance, period
Same Tier as Aretha's performance, with this one being my favourite as well.
The Wilson sisters (HEART), Stevie Nicks, and Pat Benatar are my 3 (4 technically) fav female rockers!!! 34 y/o dude here stating this proudly.
This one and Aretha Franklin's Kennedy Center Honors for Carole King. You've gotta see that one too. I've seen them both dozens of times.
FUN FACT: In the 70's, Heart was often referred to as "The Female Led Zeppelin". The Wilson Sisters have covered a lot of Led Zeppelin songs over their career so they were the perfect choice for this honors performance.
I love their version of Rock and Roll!
I was going to mention this too... good thing I scrolled down so I didn't steal your point.
I'm in my mid-60s and remember Heart on the radio every few minutes in the '70s, being compared to Zep.
The absolutely best cover EVER of Stairway to Heaven. Ann and Nancy Wilson (a.k.a. Heart) are American treasures. Love, Love, Love...
I have seen this a million times. I always cry. Ann and Nancy Wilson are just so super special. Absolute treasures. This performance was one in a million.
Keep in mind- Ann Wilson was 62 when they performed this. Robert Plant has said he HATES when people cover this song- but loved this version. There is a longer version of this performance when you see the reaction of other celebrities in the audience...but the one they do show is classical cellist Yo Yo Ma. I LOVE his reaction. I probably watch this video at least once a month, and saw Heart in concert a few years ago and they ended the show with it. AMAZING. Best cover of a song EVER.
Yes! What Beth Hutter said!
Ann is the most talented singer to sing this song.
@@MrWhoevr The setting is not nearly as grand and there is no chior, but the Lincoln Lab Band does a great cover of this song. You should consider checking it out on RUclips.
That's great to learn that was Yo Yo Ma. Thanks for that.
@@SuperHappyflowers I love that part- it just shows good can be appreciated by all kinds of different musicians.
68 years old, and she is still unmatched!!!
Only Ann Wilson could have sang that as a tribute. What an outstanding performance. I love the Kennedy Center Honors. A very special award. Great reaction!!
They absolutely picked the right person to sing the song. Annie is a Rock Legend in her own right. She did them proud!
He was probably crying..STOP, STOP! PLEASE make it STOP!
@@kenperk9854 Plant HATES this song but probably liked this version.
@@mem1701movies he doesnt hates the song
@@mem1701movies he hates when other people cover the song, but said he loved this performance
They killed it...legendary....love it
John Bonham was the original drummer for LZ....what an honor for his son to play the drums for his dad's band tribute.
Ann Wilson is widely considered to be one of the best female singers in the history of rock. She was 62 years old at the time of this performance!
You can take the word female out of that sentence and it's still equally as true.
@@jasonremy1627 absolutely!
She and her sister screwed the pooch when they fired one of the best bands EVER! For the last twenty something years, their performances were kinda a sad tribute and a , can you imagine how great they could have been if they had been willing to compromise sense Roger ACTUALLY founded Heart to begin with.
@@jasonremy1627 TRUE DAT.
@@kenperk9854 What chu talkin bout Willis. Take your Meds..
I appreciate Ann Wilson's recognition of the moment. She is a legendary front woman and could have easily overpowered the song with her dominating vocals and presence. But she recognized, and played her part like the goddamn professional she is! Love this reaction.
when the curtain rises and the choir comes in, with the lady behind jimmy her reaction, blows you away
This was one of the best tributes ever. Stairway to heaven has been chosen many, many times as the best rock song EVER! And there is nobody who can pay tribute to that great band Led Zeppelin other than Ann and Nancy Wilson from HEART. These were legends paying tribute to legends. Once in a lifetime presentation.
Another Kennedy Center tribute suggestion: Adam Lambert singing Believe; paying tribute to CHER. That's another incredible presentation.
Possible the Best Production and Performance EVER!! Jason Bonham was such a Classy Touch!!! Thank you Heart!!
Robert Plant is Jason's Godfather.
Heart is the only band who can sing this masterpiece with the respect it deserves. Mind blowing performance, especially wearing the John Bonham hats at the end. ❤️
I love how Page, like the professor so proud of his students. Mouthing the notes and fingering on the guitar solo. Never fails to make me cry tears of joy.
To put this performance in context- This was performed to honor the band Led Zeppelin when they were awarded "Kennedy Center Honors"
It was performed in front of the three remaining living members of the band - John Paul Jones, Robert Plant and Jimmy Page--- the three older gentlemen featured on camera several times.
Led Zeppelin gave Heart a standing ovation for the performance of one of their signature songs.
"The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual honor given to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture. The honors have been presented annually since 1978, culminating each December in a star-studded gala celebrating the honorees in the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C. "
I am glad you pointed that out. I don't think they realized that Led Zeppelin was sitting there themselves. The emotion they were picking up was the tribute to these guys, one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Check out Lenny Kravetz,s performance at that evening honoring LZ
Thanks for truncating my thoughts.
This wasn't a cover, it was a brilliant tribute.
Aretha singing "Natural Woman" at The Kennedy Center should be their next Female Friday reaction. ✌️❤️
Their standing ovation was for the drummer, Jason Bonham, son of Led Zeppelin's original drummer John Bonham. Ann Wilson's vocal was mediocre at best. I've heard her do better.
@@leahrosamilia8006 if you want to see one of the best Kennedy Center rock and roll performances ever, check out Aerosmith's Steven Tyler singing the Abbey Road medley at the Kennedy Center honors for Paul McCartney.
Ann can do no wrong!!! Timeless voice. Rock on Queen 👑
The best tribute performance EVER!!
This was an incredible moment in recent rock history. They did the song justice for sure. But I’m excited for you guys to hear the Zeppelin version, which is arguably the most iconic rock song of all time. EVERYBODY who grew up with rock knows this song. That’s why this performance meant so much to the audience that night and to everyone watching.
Def I just hope they do a live version, Heart we’re amazing but the original can never be beaten, this is the iconic of iconic songs, probably gets voted as the greatest song ever at number 1 than any song, everyone has an opinion, but it’s that level of royalty…
It’s not arguable
Stairway has been #1 on top 100 of all time forever. That's how huge this song is. Heart are huge Zep fans and have worked with them. They are not strangers, but Heart are fangirls. This is the only professional performance of Stairway by anyone other than Zep.
Amber is so precious when she gets emotional like that. I feel you girl! You are SO good at reading and articulating the emotions which is a big reason why I watch y'all's channel. Both of y'all are good at that. Y'all are going to have to come back and watch this again after seeing the original Led Zeppelin version. I was a kid when the original was popular on the radio and hearing this always makes me cry like a little baby! It's sooooo beautiful, in so many ways. Ann's belt is powerful and her vibrato is EXQUISITE! Y'all need to scoot it back to 7:05. Y'all were jamming out and you missed a sweet interaction between John, Jimmy and Robert. The members of Led Zeppelin were very close, truly like a family. They were notoriously fond of one another and had such an amazing symbiotic relationship and dynamism between them. It's always wonderful to watch them together. Even John, who is usually so stoic, was all smiles at this performance. Also, Robert Plant is an ENFP (in the Myers Briggs Type Indicator) which means he's a strong Introverted Feeler and you can just feel the emotion welling up inside him before the tears come. It makes my heart both melt and sing every time I see it! Also, please tell me you recognized President Barak Obama and First Lady Michelle. This event was HUGE! That shows you the reverence. commanded by Led Zeppelin and Heart both.
Her voice is insane!! They sang this to Zeplin at this show and the band was blown away.
Many would argue that "Stairway to Heaven" is the greatest Rock n Roll song of all time! The sister`s hit a home run honoring Zeppelin, with them in attendance!
"Greatest rock'n'roll song of all time"? Seriously? It's not even the best song on *Led Zeppelin IV* .
Note that each of the choir members and Jon Bonham’s son are wearing bowler hats, which is a tribute to The Great Bono himself. Very touching tribute!
There isn't another group of people that could have pulled this off as well as they did. And it always hits me in the feels near the end when Jason looks up towards Heaven almost like he's saying " You made it up the Stairway Dad". 💞
Ann and Nancy Wilson, A.K.A. Heart, are top tier professionals and even after all these years Ann is still one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Her skill and power is amazing.
The best part about this video for me is watching Robert Plant's reaction. When you can bring the original artist to tears performing his song, you're doing something right. Ann absolutely nailed it.
I have seen this so many times, and I cry every single time. This song is even more poignant to me because the original Led Zeppelin song was still pulled up on my son's computer when he died, it was the last song he listened to and I know he left it as a message for me that he was going on ahead to the next adventure of his soul and would be okay. He was very ill with congestive heart failure, only 31 when he died.
Sharilyn Bratton , you have my deepest condolences . I too , cry every time I hear this song , and I have also lost a son . Stairway has been my favorite song since I was14 .
@@naenae796 My condolences on the loss of your son, there is no grief like it for certain.
My son died at 38 yo in 2019. Led Zeppelin was one of his favorite bands. I share in your grief and honor you for sharing his story.
@@sharilynbratton6476 Thank you.
@@denofboxers1996 Oh, my, so recent, my heart goes out to you. May your son's memory be a blessing forever.
Never EVER get tired of seeing this. Ann is the best rock voice ever but here, she goes even beyond surreal.
Ann Wilson can still blow the face off of most vocalists at 70!
This has got to be the greatest cover of any song ever. The first time I watched it I was left absolutely speechless.
It is the best cover ever..even better with the band there and the late John bohams son Jason on drums ..dad would be so proud...and the guitarist wow.on point all the way...this old bitch still loves her rock
3 covers have done that to me
this one
Eva Cassidy singing Lennons "Imagine"
Johnny Cash singing "Hurt"
I’ve seen Heart four times live. They are in my top 3 bands. John Paul Jones from Zep has worked with them. They are huge Zep fans. They’ve toured with Jason Bonham. This couldn’t have been planned better. Heart is the only band who could perform a tribute to Zep and get away with it. And what a perfect choice for a female Friday 😊And this was the shortened version.
I've seen them 3 times! Aren't they AMAZING?! Every bit as good as the album if not BETTER.
I saw them 4 times too! They and other rockers stopped coming to So. Florida or I would have seen them a million times.
Guy from germany here who has only seen them once performing live, but has every record, every movie and every known bootleg and every super 8 "video" that has ever been recorded.
I had tickets to see Led Zep but the show was cancelled because of the drummer's death. I saw Heart and they did do Rock and Roll. When I saw Robert Plant alone I was a little disappointed because his voice wasn't up to snuff and Stevie Ray Vaughan was the opener and super pumped up the audience.
Being from Seattle and 60, I had lots of opportunities to see them. Probably 10 or more times! They plagued many Zeppelin covers. When they were starting out in the 70,s, Exp covers helped them to get popular.
I wasn't a big Obama fan, but they sure brought in some amazing music! Several like this that were one-of-a-kind experiences. This was a great tribute to a great band.
I first saw this on TV when it first aired and I was just blown away. Brought Robert Plant to tears Ann Wilson is the only other one that could pull this off. It still gives me goose bumps! Love Led Zeppelin and Heart since I was a teenager in the 70's. Still listen to them today
This is my absolute FAVORITE tribute performance at the Kennedy Center. I've read that Ann Wilson actually had the flu at the time, yet she KILLED IT. Such a beautiful and powerful performance by Ann, Nancy, Jason and the rest of the musicians and singers. And Led Zeppelin absolutely LOVED it. Thanks for this one, and you definitely must listen to the original to fully appreciate how great this Heart tribute was.
I also think that guitar solo in front of Jimmy Page is pretty damn impressive!
And how Jimmy is happy to see it done.
Can you imagine how they pitched it to him?
"Hi, Shayne Fontaine? Wanna perform at the Kennedy Center Honors? You'll play THE most legendary guitar solo ever, in front of The Legend himself. And he WILL study your performance. No pressure!"
@@leomarshall4059
"Who's doing the iconic intro riff?"
"Nancy Wilson. Okay, so maybe lots of pressure."
Yeah, I can't imagine. It's not a very difficult solo, but I'm not sure I could play ANYTHING in front of Mr. Page. Much less something he wrote. I would've been more nervous being Nancy Wilson playing the iconic arpeggiated acoustic in the intro, I would've surely fucked it up.😆
Not really Mary....EVERY guitar player can play Stairway.....the challenging issue here is WRITING Stairway...do that and you too will achieve greatness!!!!
At around the 9:00 minute mark, Jay has that out of body experience when you hear Ann Wilson hit that high note and sustains it and then move above it when she deliveries " To be a rock, and not to roll " for the first time. Her voice is absolutely stunning and there aren't very many vocalist that can put you through so many emotional changes as Ann Wilson can, She truly has a gift and this performance shows the full package....Aloha
My brother was a huge Led Zeppelin fan. He introduced me to their music. He passed away on October 18, and I will always remember him when I hear LZ.
It’s so strange to me that you’re watching a tribute cover of a song you’ve never heard! Also, this song is consistently voted the #1 classic rock song of all time in all polls. It’s not my favorite Zep song but it’s a blowout insane cover. Ann is the bomb.
Yeah for all of y'all that recommended them this before they listened to the original....ugh. *shakes head*
Yes you can’t beat the original. But I l or heart!
Right from the start she sounds so similar. Too bad they haven’t heard the original but I’m sure they’ll catch that.
To be fair its female Friday so there’s that ..
Yes, they should have listened to Led Zeppelin first
This is widely considered to be if not the greatest rock song ever written, at least in the top 3. The orchestra, the choir and Ann Wilson’s vocals makes it absolutely soar. A masterpiece.
It's definitely the #1 rock song ever written.
Brings me to tears everytime. Always loved Jimmy,s face during
the solo as if he's dissecting every molecule thinking don't you
mess up my baby. Gold Standard performance.
Actually he said he was doing all he could not to cry. He was moved by the rendition and by Jason being there.
nah, Jimmy was moved, trying to hold back tears...can't imagine how emotional that would be, especially having John's son there. BEST BAND EVER.
I noticed that also. He was watching them very carefully.
Yes, DEFINITELY listen to Led Zep's original masterpiece. But listen to the studio version first. THAT is the masterpiece!!! Get to know it the way my generation did. Then enjoy whichever live version you can find.
I find myself coming back to this song over and over again. Ann Wilson just slays this song with such emotion and power. Brings chills every time. And I understand Amber’s reaction because I get the same way at the end too.
When you do the Led Zeppelin original version of Stairway to Heaven don't try to judge. Just keep in mind, that Led Zeppelin created this song for the 3/4 piece band and nobody did it justice until this tribute and the enhancements of orchestra and choir brought to this the next level. It is the brilliance of the original song that allows the enhancements work.
Facts
To me the best version of this song is the Led Zeppelin 1973 performance at Madison Square Garden. That one is amazing especially Jimmy Page's guitar solo.
I don't understand not listening to the original artist's studio version first. Especially on such a classic. Oh well. You're right. This is truly the one time you can say a cover of this song did justice to it. It did more, it glorified it. Celebrated it. If it was me though, I'd prefer to go more chronologically from origin to honouring it. But to each their own.
Yup, as you say it's the brilliance of the original which allows this. Really looking forward to the original reaction.
@@alamc200 Agreed.....
😳 No pressure there! Just sing this legendary song and play that guitar solo in front of the icons of rock...and the way Jason looked up towards Heaven at the end like he was saying "You made it up the staircase dad" hit me hard.
When you can bring Robert Plant to shed a tear you know you've nailed it! This is the most amazing cover!
Absolutely love this performances by Heart.
The fact that you’ve never heard the original Zeppelin version just 🤯, you have to hear Jimmy Page shred the guitar and Robert Plant wail. Hearts version is also great, Anne Wilson has one of the best female voices in Rock. RIP Bonzo, best drummer EVER!
Completely agree!
Heart singing stairway to heaven live flawless!!!
One of the best tribute covers of all time.
This is such a great performance..... to me Ann Wilson has some of best ever female rock vocals in history ❤️
totaly agree
Couldn’t agree more. She is my favorite.
..the best
Leave out female, literally epic tier artist!
@@dannyassad9020 I think I heard that the 2 bands are friends , Shes a real 70s girl
IMHO Ann Wilson is the greatest female rock singer EVER! The endless hours I listened to their music when I was in my 20s and 30s. I’ve seen them three times in concert, twice in Seattle and once in Tokyo.
I've watched this a hundred times and cry every time. Stairway is THE ultimate rock song from THE ultimate rock band. Covering Stairway has always been sacrilege lol But if anyone was going to do it, it might as well be Heart. It was such a beautiful tribute to them...I know you haven't really explored them yet, but just know that they've influenced generations of bands, across all genres. They were in the balcony watching the product of everything they did and were. It's a beautiful thing, well deserved.
Bingo. Its sacrilege, frankly a running joke that you show how clueless and bad you are at music, if you sit down and start strumming this in a guitar shop, or heaven forbid play it in a bar or at a wedding. Because you'll SUCK and embarass yourself. Unless you're Heart.
Actually, because she changes the arrangement and is a musical genius, Dolly Parton, of all people, does one of the few other good covers of it.
ME TOO
You better STOP watching this then if it makes you cry this much you'll be dried up for the rest of your life!!💜💜💜🖤🖤🖤♥️♥️♥️💛💛💛
Best cover version I've ever heard of any song 🎵 😍 love It ❤
My favorite cover! So many layers of greatness! ❤️
I loveAnne’s voice! Nancy is a killer guitarist. Just Wow!
Ann Wilson ROCKED that song. They all did. The guitar solo and the choir coming in stirs it up to a whole other level. And seeing John Bonham's son playing the drums and looking heavenward at the end before playing the last bit makes me cry every time. I LOVE this performance. It's perfect.
(And I love seeing the band members reacting. It's so fun and heartening.)
Thank you so much for reacting to this song.
To make all of that even more chill-worthy, the drum set Jason was playing was actually his Dad's.
Just so ya know, Heart was chosen to perform for this because of their special relationship with Zeppelin. They used to perform "Rock and Roll" to warm up before concerts and it became a fan favorite. It was so often requested, they finally published a live version from a concert for their 1980 greatest hits release. My favorites showing their instrumental and vocal skills, as well as their songwriting abilities is the combination of Sylvan's Song/Dream of the Archer. I think this somewhat obscure portion of the album is some of their best work. From the 1977 album "Little Queen". My favorite album from Heart.
This is one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. They kept adding more and more of the choir and Robert Plant had tears in his eyes.
OMG this was absolutely mind blowing!
Honorable mention........... EVERYBODY ON STAGE, especially ANN WILSON! I am proud to be an American honoring, arguably, the greatest rock-n-roll band from across the pond in this fashion. Everybody who had a hand in orchestrating this extravaganza should be so very, very proud of themselves. Not sure how much rehersel time was put into this event, but it must have been a lot based on how well it turned out. Best honoring performance I have ever seen in my 65 years of life! Great reaction guys.
Amber, we were ALL with you in our tearful, overwhelming reaction to greatness. I've watched the original Kennedy Centre version, and reactions like yours, hundreds of times and my personal reaction is the same, every single time. This performance is like some musicians strode down from Mt. Olympus for one mind-blowing performance and left us mere humans gasping for air having witnessed this incredible performance to the gods.
Is it possible to top this???
Go on down the Heart rabbit hole - it's diverse and mind blowing. Huge, legendary talent.👍💕
When anyone learns guitar, it's this songs first chords people play. On the movie Wayne's World, Mike Myers went into a guitar shop, picked up a guitar, and started with the first chords to Stairway to Heaven. Yes, please react to the original because you can't call yourself a rocker until you've listened to Stairway to Heaven, from the Zeppelin.
Nah, the first song that people learn how to play is "Smoke On the Water" ... unless they have an acoustic, in which case "Stairway to Heaven" is right up there as the most common first song.
Stairway to heaven is one of the first songs that you want to play but it is not such an easy song for a begginer. Smoke on the water was the one and in more modern days is Wonder wall. Stairway have some difficulties, needs a descend ability to play the arpeggios and of course if you want to play all guitar parts you have to be in a good level.
The intro to "Wish You Were Here" were the first chords I learned to play.
Okay then, y'all want to debate it, all right. I guess I should have said is this, everyone I know who's a beginner with the acoustic guitar learns and plays Stairway to Heaven first.
Yall are some pure souls.
This was a performance of a life time.
The story of Zep is amazing, as is their music, but this performance tied the past and the current into a special gift.
Watching Jason look up to his father at the end was a goose bump moment.
Wish you'd have heard the original FIRST to truly appreciate this even more...
I KNEW your reaction to this masterpiece would be magically special & neither of you disappointed. The reverence, the appreciation, the respect, the enjoyment, the emotion! I swear I thought Amber was gonna cry at one point but she held it together like the professional she is. You guys deserve all the praise you get.
Big Led Zepplin fan, but this is probably my favorite version of "Stairway To Heaven" so far. Ann Wilson knocked it out of the park, and seeing John Bonham's son, Jason on drums, made me cry like a little bitch :)
To make it even better, those were his Dad's drums that Jason was playing on.
You probably know that the Wilson sister have said they were influenced by Led Zeppelin and have covered some of their songs.
Listen to Mary Jane’s
This performance is STUNNING.
It takes supreme confidence to try and cover any Zeppelin song but especially Stairway,arguably the greatest rock song ever made. This arrangement is absolutely mind blowing. Adding the orchestra, choir and Jason Bonham was more than I could bear. I'm speechless in front of my computer! The Wilson sisters brought this song to a level that had to make the members of Zeppelin so proud! There is no number to rate this, no words to describe it. I'm emotionally drained and flat out floored!! Simply a tremendous performance! Not to mention Jason Bonham and the choir all wearing bowlers hats as a tribute to the legend John Henry "Bonzo" Bonham!! I'm awestruck!!! Oh and how could I forget Ann Wilson a 60 + year old woman singing like she's 20 years old! Like the Wilson sisters said when they first saw the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan show,they stated they didn't want to date the Beatles, they wanted to be the Beatles! Make a band and perform on stage like them. Well they played at The White House in front of The President and Led Zeppelin!! Ann, Nancy, you made it girls!!! What a show stopper!!! One of the single best performances I have ever seen!! Check out Hearts version of Going to California an acoustic number from led Zeppelin 3. The Wilson sisters knock it out of the park again!!!
Ann Wilson, is, was, and will always be, Pure Rock and Roll incarnate!
I have seen this performance over a dozen times now, and it still sends literal chills up my spine and almost brings me to tears every time. I can't explain why... It just does.
Bob is all tears. Jimmy is all fuck yeah. Letterman is thinking he can't believe he's being honored at the same time. What an amazing show.
On drums is original Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham's son Jason.
Jason is wearing John's hat and is playing John's drum kit.
The other 3 members of Zeppelin didn't even know Jason was going to be there.
This brought me back a few months when I first started watching the channel. I kept thinking “how do you not know these songs?” It is kinda fun though
@@itsmedino They don't know them because They is yunguns. LOL
Always fun watching someone experience a song that you love for the first time.
@@chriso6719 too true
No doubt one of the most amazing, marvelous covers ever performed.
Steven Tyler' at the Paul McCartney Kennedy Centre honors ( Abby Road Medley) is a close second !! It is Epic.
Did you notice Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones (all of whom were wearing Kennedy Center Honors medals) in the stands, appreciative of Heart's cover of their classic song?
Wow!!!!!!! I grew up listening to Heart, and the good old stuff. This is a peek into Heart's real genius! Pure talent. Through all of the drugs, alcoholism, and pain, Heart kept that pure talent alive!!! Ann Wilson is so amazing!! She is timeless figure that all musicians should try to emulate if they dare to try. Thanks!!
This beautiful music will never die, generations after generations will pass and it will never stop sounding great Robert plan
CHILLLLLS every time I hear Ann sing this. Powerful perfection. Nancy's guitar playing is just as great. My favorites!
I've been a fan of Zeppelin for 5 decades, "Stairway to Heaven" is a big part of the soundtrack of my youth. I've also been a fan of Heart for a little over 40 years. The ladies have stated many times that Led Zeppelin was a major influence to the band. They've covered Zeppelin songs many times at their shows, in fact when I saw them in 1977 they covered "Rock n Roll" to close out the show on the night Elvis died. I highly suggest you look into interviews with Ann & Nancy about this evening. You'll get an inside look into how nerve wracking this night was. By the way your faces when Ann started singing were priceless, I have seen this video 200 times and I get chills everytime.
@Vern I agree I watched at least 200 times and every time I hear it I get the body chills.