Get ready for the most emotional performance of “Stairway To Heaven” you’ll ever see. But here’s the twist – it’s not performed by Led Zeppelin. Instead, it’s played by two members of the band Heart. Back in the 1970s, both Led Zeppelin and Heart were hugely popular rock bands.
In 2012, Led Zeppelin received a special honor from the U.S. President at the time, Barack Obama. They were awarded the Kennedy Center Honors, which is given to people who have made a big impact on American culture. Some of the famous past winners include music legends like Frank Sinatra, Joni Mitchell, Sammy Davis Jr., and Ella Fitzgerald.
Led Zeppelin was one of the most influential rock bands ever. Many other famous artists have said Zeppelin inspired their music, including Def Leppard, Metallica, Alice Cooper, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Madonna, Beastie Boys, and even Lady Gaga!
Heart was also unique because they were the only hugely successful rock band fronted by women. They had several big hits like “These Dreams,” “Alone,” and “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You.”
The Kennedy Center Honors include a big event with performances to celebrate the winners. In 2012, to honor Led Zeppelin, Ann and Nancy Wilson from Heart teamed up with Jason Bonham, the son of Zeppelin’s late drummer John Bonham. They performed an unforgettable version of “Stairway To Heaven.” Even though Heart had played the song before, this time was extra special. They were playing in front of Led Zeppelin themselves, the President, and many famous people.
Even though they were nervous, their performance was incredible—full of deep emotion and energy. But what really made it special were the reactions from Led Zeppelin. Robert Plant had tears in his eyes, and the band members kept smiling at each other, remembering old times. One touching moment happened when the gospel choir singing with Heart put on black bowler hats to honor John Bonham, who passed away in 1980. Jason Bonham, playing drums just like his father, finished the song with tears in his eyes, but he played perfectly.
Of course, the audience loved it and gave a standing ovation. The cameras showed people singing and dancing along. Led Zeppelin’s music had touched so many people, probably more than they ever realized. Later, Robert Plant spoke with L.A. Weekly about what the moment meant to him:
“When I saw Heart perform ‘Stairway To Heaven,’ I just couldn’t believe that song had anything to do with this 64-year-old man sitting next to John Paul Jones. I thought to myself, ‘This is me… How did this happen?'”
Ann and Nancy Wilson admitted they were very nervous playing such a legendary song. When they finally met the members of Led Zeppelin after the show, they were anxious to hear what they thought. Robert Plant, who hasn’t performed the song in years, shared something interesting. He said:
“Oh my god, I’ve grown to hate that song so much because everybody murders it so badly. But you guys did great!”
And Jimmy Page, Zeppelin’s guitarist, told Nancy:
“You played that so well.”
What better compliment could they have received? That performance was truly unforgettable, and everyone who watched it will always remember it.
What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
