Career WAS OVER…Till BACK UP Singer’s FLUKE Vocal Took Legendary Band BACK to #1 | Professor of Rock

No doubt about it. Heart is one of the defining acts of the rock era. And their catalog is filled with essential entries in the rock canon. Today, we’re telling the start-to-finish story of Heart who rose to prominence in the 70s, fell from grace in the early 80s, and then put together one of the greatest comebacks of the neon decade. And we’re doing it via five vital tracks that capture what they are all about. And there’s plenty of drama and epic moments along the way… from chasing their breakout hit to fighting sleazy promoters to hitting one of the most badass notes of all time. Plus you’re going to get an inside look into all five of these songs from singer Ann Wilson. It’s a story you’re not going to want to miss… NEXT on the Professor of Rock.
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Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. if you ever blew out your speakers from playing the music too loud back in the day… you’ll dig this channel of deep musical nostalgia made sure to subscribe below right now. We also have a Patreon you'll want to check out. There you’ll find an additional catalog of exclusive content and you can even become an honorary producer to help us curate this music history.
It’s time for another episode of our series Evolution. On this show, we tell the story of a band’s career through 5 defining tracks. These may not be a band’s most popular songs, and they may not even be my personal favorites. But each song will take you from the beginning to the end of a band’s journey and showcase the evolution of their sound and artistic direction. For today’s episode we’re telling the story of Heart with particular emphasis on the powerhouse sister duo of Ann and Nancy Wilson.
The incredible journey of Heart goes back to the sixties when Seattle-based brothers Roger and Mike Fisher, and friend Steve Fossen, formed a band called The Army. Cutting their teeth around the Seattle area, the band would go through multiple line-ups and name changes in these formative years… including White Heart and Hocus Pocus. By 1972, the band relocated to Vancouver BC in Canada so Mike wouldn’t be drafted to Vietnam. This same year, the band was joined by vocalist Ann Wilson who also entered into a relationship with Mike. By 1974, Ann’s younger sister Nancy joined up as well and began dating Roger. With the Wilson sisters on board, the band started going by ‘Heart’ and paid their dues gigging around Vancouver. As Heart’s following grew in Canada, they were picked up by the Canadian label ‘Mushroom Records,’ which was managed by Shelly Siegel.
When Heart issued their debut album Dreamboat Annie, the band’s line-up consisted of the Wilson sisters, Roger Fischer and Howard Reese on guitar, Steve Fossen on bass, and Mike Derosier on drums. Dreamboat Annie was released in September 1975 and sold 30,000 copies in Canada within its first few months. But the US was a different story. Said Nancy, “Though we were stars in Canada, the United States was a tough nut for us to crack. We had to break the States manually, by taking opening slots on tours, and traveling to radio stations… Our first real success in the States came from border cities like Detroit, Seattle, Buffalo, or any place that could pick up Canadian radio… If Heart was going to build on the success of Dreamboat Annie in Canada, we needed to play regularly and tour...

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the GREATEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE from a song from both a male and female?

[@TerrickTerran]

Stairway to Heaven

[@Code.Name.V]

Ann Wilson - Sweet Darlin (Live) Freddie Mercury - Who Wants To Live Forever (Live in Budapest)

[@Whisper_292]

Edge of Seventeen--Stevie Nicks (Barracuda--Ann Wilson gets honorable mention) Love of My Life--Freddie Mercury

[@surlechapeau]

Janis Joplin - Another Piece Of My Heart. (female) Nazareth-Love Hurts(Dan McCaffery) (male) runnerups: Boston- More Than A Feeling(Brad Delp); Harry Nilsson- Without You, Percy Sledge- When A Man Loves A Woman.

[@TB6791]

Wow 😮 that's gonna take a minute... I'll be back in a bit 🤔

[@jennyjenny4501]

Wishing Ann Wilson all my prayers with her fight with cancer. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@BReal-10EC]

The cancer was already removed, this is just preventative chemotherapy to hopefully keep it from coming back. Her prognosis was very good iirc.

[@shiroibasketshoes]

I wish Ann Wilson the best, too. It sounds like she is taking the proper steps to deal with it, but we know cancer can be ruthless.

[@Code.Name.V]

​@@BReal-10ECThat is good news.

[@odditiesparanormalmysterie1723]

I've been lifting her up in prayer ever since I heard the news my sister. Let's hope she beats it!

[@ProfessorofRock]

She's got this!

[@SonnyCrocket-p6h]

if you can make Robert Plant cry with your rendtition of his masterpiece, you know you've put a dent in the Universe

[@TJ-id6ee]

Great comment and so true!

[@dannykent6190]

I bet Robert Plant might cry if he heard me try to cover his songs... maybe for different reasons.

[@TJ-id6ee]

@@dannykent6190 haha

[@vr6186]

That made ne laugh out loud ​@@dannykent6190

[@akidodogstar5460]

@@dannykent6190 You win today's Internet chuckle award.

[@kathleensyck953]

Their father was a teacher at my Jr. High School in WA. He was quite proud and wanted to share their talent so he asked them to come and play for us. They came and played in the courtyard. It was exciting and they made quite a few fans.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What did Mr. Wilson teach back then?

[@marigoldenergy8512]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980I had to look it up on Wikipedia because u grew up in the area and wondered if he was my teacher and I never knew it. It says that he taught English. Now I’m bummed because he wasn’t my teacher after all.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@marigoldenergy8512 Oh no! But at least you were able to remember him though.

[@kathleensyck953]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 English.

[@kathleensyck953]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 he taught English.

[@turbomustang84]

I was given 6 months to live in 98 from stage 4 cancer now I've lived to meet my 8 grandchildren.... So Miss Wilson you got this ..... God bless

[@roizeldiez3500]

This is awesome! ❤

[@chrissiecruise7196]

Similar for me. Doctors told me "no one makes it past 5 years". That was in 2007. I just thank God it hasn't come back So yes, Ann, you got this and God bless

[@karentrimmer]

I was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 1980. All they could do was cut it out and hope they got it all.

[@sandlot40]

The most wonderful thing I've read in months. May God bless you and yours. ❤️

[@robertwalkey1443]

Bless you Ann Wilson

[@galeway1697]

And they did it all fully clothed! Good luck to them in their future. Prayers for Anne's recovery.

[@Mistmantle88]

And without autotune

[@palamnaeus]

But can you imagine it otherwise at the Kennedy center? 😂

[@hardnewstakenharder]

They were sexualized by the industry as lesbians, what are you talking about??

[@thinkwholistic267]

I was at the airport in Chicago one day in the seventies, standing in line behind a group carrying these strange flat boxes. I asked one of the guys what was in them and he said we just earned a gold record. I said Wow, what band are you. He said, Heart. I got to tell him I had contributed to his award and he thanked me. They were not a big deal yet but I was sure crazy on them!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Cool story!

[@Rorschachqp]

I see what you did there.

[@knowsmebyname]

Every time I think about it i want to cry

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Awesome!

[@davidadams5280]

You sound like a Magic Man

[@markmcarthy596]

Heart’s performance of Stairway to Heaven for Led Zeppelin is the Most epic cover Ever.

[@ProfessorofRock]

No question!

[@cudwieser3952]

@@ProfessorofRock don't sleep on hearts cover of you're the voice either. :)

[@Caledoniarose]

Absolutely! No question.

[@silverliner4894]

Even Robert Plant teared up

[@KenLieck]

The Butthole Surfers & Sandra Bernhardt cover of Barracuda is pretty horrifying (I prefer Phantom Tollbooth's version) but despite the efforts of all involved, one of the three mixes/edits has leaked to KZbin if any of you want to check it out. No idea what the members of Heart think about it.

[@Banglaroadbarhopping]

The Kennedy Center performance is the most epic moment I have ever personally experienced in all my time listening to and watching rock music. The finest cover of one of rock's most difficult songs becomes a worship song as the choir comes in. Robert Plant tears up, and I'm right there...crying. The most moving musical moment ever. I can't count how many times I've watched it and I still tear up every single time. Prayers for Ann.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The most epic moment of the 21st century for music.

[@davidcampbell4870]

Totally agree, and I teared up again just now watching even the tiniest of clips included in this interview. Not only does Ann have the greatest rock voice, but the first time I ever heard her, listening to the Dreamboat Annie album when it first came out, I was impressed by how clean and clear and perfect her voice sounded, unlike most singers, who may have great voices and sing with perfect pitch, but nevertheless have some tiny bit of raspiness or other quality coloring their sound. That's not a bad thing -- it usually makes for memorable singing, and a very recognizable sound with a lot of character and emotion, but their voices still aren't pure, not like Ann's.

[@allisonreimers9411]

I heard Barracuda on the radio when I was 12 and I loved it. The idea that a woman was rocking it out like that was amazing. Then I saw them on The Midnight Special and realized that another woman was on guitar. My young mind was blown.

[@rhondahall9832]

I have always thought Ann Wilson was so beautiful! And…..wow! Can she sing! Her sister is excellent on the guitar, too! ❤

[@joermnyc]

Ann and Nancy playing Stairway to Heaven for Led Zeppelin at the Kennedy Center Honors has to be the PINNACLE of their lives!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I have to agree...So great!

[@Dirt-Diggler]

That performance at the Kennedy Centre still brings me to tears 👌 as soon as you mentioned it, they started, it's not just the song or the band or the choir or the beautiful homage to Bono but seeing their reaction just slays me, every dam time !

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Best moment of their lives so far.

[@georgevanbernum2355]

I’m gonna check that one out now!☺️👍

[@DW-nb2zc]

Important venue but ain't even their song so how great for them was it

[@llongone2]

Not just "greatest female rock vocalist of all time", Ann Wilson is one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time, male or female.

[@skotrock]

This is true

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

She absolutely belongs on that list!

[@bobbywise2313]

Yes

[@haplopeart]

Total agreement

[@gsxrkz]

Yes but don't forget about Stevie Nicks.

[@cherylmundy6354]

I am so glad you included Dog and Butterfly. That song has always touched my heart, so to speak and will always.

[@moniquelegarda1842]

Ann's voice was created for rock and roll. I pray for Ann's healing and that she may continue to sing for many more years.

[@RonThiery]

Heart was my first ever concert as a 16 year old kid in December 1978. We stood in line for over four hours in sub-freezing temperatures so we could get as close to the stage as possible (festival seating). When we entered the venue, we ran towards the stage and were lucky enough to get a spot up against the roadie barrier. As it turned out we were right in front of the spot where Nancy Wilson played her guitar for most of the show. Forty-six years later and I remember it like it was yesterday. A starry-eyed kid with a front row seat watching the most beautiful woman in music rock-out.

[@Mark-db1ok]

And Heart was MY first concert experience as a 13 yr old at the Astroworld amphitheater for the bad animals tour in the 80s. Things I remember: Feeling of "Wow so they're really HERE playing for us, like, in person! Cool!" Also my sister explaining to me the weird sweet smokey smell 😏

[@laurenwalden3937]

mine too. through the years, I never missed one show when they came to San Diego. greatest female singer ever!

[@mheuman]

I saw 5hem at the Paramount Theater in Seattle during the Passionworks tour, I saw 16 and it made me a Heart fan for life. ❤

[@greystone83]

cool

[@MJmysummerlove]

Not going to lie, watching the video of Heart covering “Stairway To Heaven” is like watching a historical event take place and no matter how many times you watch it, you still feel the same way you did as the first time. Ann Wilson, to me, ranks as high as Pat Benatar with regards to female vocalists, while Nancy, as amazing on guitar as she is, is certainly underrated as a singer. I wish Ann Wilson a speedy recovery 🤍🎶

[@ProfessorofRock]

I have to agree. A historic moment!

[@exploringtheparanormalwith81]

Yes! Glad you mentioned Pat!! I did too!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s really hard for me to say any words when watching their performance.

[@scottinman7507]

Adam, that took A LOT of guts, to list a song/performance, as the #5 career defining piece of music, for a band who has a whole catalogue of great songs. As you, I, and everyone who has watched Ann and Nancy’s rendition of Stairway to Heaven, (50 times for me), their performance, in front of the living members, with JB on drums, is absolutely one if not the best, tribute of all time. Of the other 4, Crazy on You still stands up as a rock anthem. I’m still trying to perfect Nancy’s acoustic intro on my guitar. Finally, wonderful interview with Ann, cancer SUCKS and I hope she beats it.

[@IheartDogs55]

I agree that Pat Benatar is also as great a singer as Ann Wilson.

[@fluttergirl75]

When my daughter was 10, I played Heart. They got my daughter's interest so I told her how important they were not just for rock, but for music in general. By fluke, the next week, her male teacher decided to talk about Heart and how important they were for women and music. Doesn't get any better than that! She's grown up now and still a fan.

[@jpp7783]

Their importance for the role of women in popular music cannot be understated. In a period where women’s roles in music were to be groupies, sex pots chasing after the men folk, they were different. Nancy Wilson said, “all the other girls wanted to marry the Beatles. We wanted to BE the Beatles.”

[@marklane61]

On June 14, 2003 the Muckleshoot Tribe of Washington state opened their new venue, the White River Amphitheatre. The honor of first concert was given to local superstars Heart and an amazing opening was enjoyed by thousands. The tribal Elders performed a blessing ritual then Heart performed a rock blessing. What a show. I am so glad and honored that I was one of the joyous rockers in the crowd in attendance that evening. Heart played their own music and selections from the Led Zeppelin catalogue. Talk about lightning in a bottle. An event like that only happens once and you are truely blessed if you experienced it. Thank you Ann and Nancy for a moment I will remember to my last breath

[@Trix897]

It’s a great venue too! Greetings from Kent, WA!

[@stevenr3134]

I didn’t think my love and admiration for the Heart sisters could get any deeper…. I was wrong. So grateful I grew up listening to their music

[@glauvie]

Not even to mention how Ann is THE MOST STUNNING woman of all time at every age.

[@kittyblak393]

She tried so hard to hide her Beauty and still does

[@danjohnson2986]

Didn’t realize she’s fighting cancer. Lovely of you to give her your best and to allow us to do the same in our own way.

[@trinaq]

I'm so sorry to hear about Ann Wilson's cancer diagnosis, I'm wishing her a speedy recovery. 💔🙏Heart are such a phenomenal band, they rocked both the 70's and the 80's.

[@ProfessorofRock]

They are amazing. Thanks Trina!

[@Code.Name.V]

They were making some great music well into the 90's. Brigade and Desire Walks On were magnificent.

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@Code.Name.V I agree. Stellar.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Godspeed to her.

[@wildpinto3291]

The last time I saw Ann Wilson perform, she was with Jeff Beck at Wolftrap Amphitheater. She can still belt out a tune. R. I. P. Jeff. I miss you, my friend.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing!

[@kemlay2451]

Last time we saw her was that tour also. She was in top form in dallas

[@matthewsan78]

I can’t believe “Never” didn’t even get an honorable mention. To me their most iconic 80s track. Great video though and I love the interview with Ann. That must have been a treat.

[@jackcurtis4906]

Just lost my wife to cancer...I'll be praying for Anne- yes the GOAT of female vocalists. The Kennedy Center cover is the best, but love Heart-start to finish

[@Trobtwillis]

So sad to hear of your loss. 💔 Praying for your well being as well as Anne's.

[@libbylandscape3560]

I’m so sorry for your loss.

[@countryjoe3551]

You have my condolences for the loss of your wife. I watched my wife of 31 years die from cancer on July 29 of this year. She was an amazing musician who loved the Wilson sisters. She is now singing to the One who deserves all our praise and love.

[@pgooddmd]

I'm sorry to hear about your wife. You keep hanging in there. When you lose your other half it sure is tough to keep on going.

[@robertb2720]

I was a young Boy growing up in the 70s,80s. I stared at the Heart Albums while listening to them over and over. Beautiful Women with Angelic voices. Melodies that struck the Soul and still do today. I remember the 1st cd i ever bought when cds came out was Hearts Greatest hits. Own 2 copies now as i wore out the 1st. The 10th track is a live version of Bebe Le Strange recorded 1980 live at the Forum L.A. I crank it up as loud as possible still through my Marantz reciever and Polk Tower Speakers along with a Klipsch Sub. Brings tears of emotion flowing every time. Always a song i want to hear again... and again... God Bless You Ann in Your Journey fighting cancer. Prayers for your healing! You are not alone, for my 50th Bday i found out i had Bone and Blood cancer. 4 years later and still fighting. In remission. You can beat that Bastard also 🙌 Best of wishes. 💕

[@anna_in_aotearoa3166]

Wishing you the very best for your ongoing health journey & hoping you will experience continued remission, great quality of life & lots of rocking on!

[@donnapauley8183]

Ann Wilson’s voice is amazing. As a 9-10 year old, I would try to Belt it out with her but to this day, I cannot compete with her range! Their version of Stairway to Heaven was epic! Praying for health and peace for Ann and Nancy!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yes! Cancer sucks.

[@judybunnell9202]

The Wilson sisters are so beautiful and talented. I thank them and the rest of Heart for rocking me all these years. ❤

[@davem8898]

Ann is so down to earth. Refreshing

[@sandralybrand9425]

You took the words out of my mouth! ❤ I hope she's doing well and be omes cancer free after her treatment! ❤❤

[@sydnigrauberger5984]

I agree that Ann's voice is the most incredible range and belter I have heard in 48 years.

[@thecollective1584]

Prayers out to Ann during her health struggles

[@ProfessorofRock]

I second that!

[@randallrichardson-se7ql]

I saw them in Denver, Mile high stadium,1976 Halloween night. They were incredible. Black Sabbath followed at midnight and blew us away. I was already an Ozzie fan but that night I became a monster fan of Heart and the Wilson sisters. Still am at 70. My prayers go out to both of them.

[@CA7VINBACH]

Ann's voice is so superb I could listen to her sing the phone book.

[@Code.Name.V]

You and me both!

[@DaveWillmore]

When she sings, my heart falls in love with her all over again.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree! So great!

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@DaveWillmore Same!

[@MagruderSpoots]

LOL. I think it was Mike Rutherford who said that Paul Carrack could sing the phone book.

[@OZARKMOON1960]

I've always loved everything Heart has done. Both sisters are just so talented. And they just endure. Performing at the Kennedy Center Honors showed they still got it, and Ann's recent duo with Disturbed was just perfect. Thank you for featuring them today.

[@adderman1950]

I have loved Heart's music ever since I first heard them. I know it wasn't big for them but a big thank you to Ann & Nancy for creating their song, How Can I Refuse, as I was courting my wife at the time it came out and we sort of adopted it as "Our Song!" We will be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary next month! Can't thsnk them enough and I will be praying for Ann's health.

[@glennalmayer6563]

Ann and Nancy have meant so much to me over the years and soothed many a difficult time. Dog and Butterfly will always be among the favorites. Masterful!

[@Whisper_292]

Ann Wilson is easily the greatest female rock songer of all time. I hope and pray she comes out on the other side cancer free.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Easily!

[@HawklordLI]

She's good, but not as good as Grace Slick, Linda Ronstadt or Mary Fahl.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

She is in all of our prayers.

[@cindyrobinson3077]

Agree

[@normatible9795]

Agreed but Nancy wilson is just the same she can belt out songs like a rocker. Listen to her " Tbis Dream". She was lead vocal wd Ann singing background. Tbeze 2 sisters are powerful rockstars ,dingers,songwriiterrs not to mention Nancy 's excellent guitar playing

[@r.a.monigold9789]

I'm 78 now and lived and worked in the greater Seattle area in the 70's. All we heard on the radio was HEART music and we LOVED it. Later I had a job that let me briefly interact with the sisters and they were "regular folk" - kind and genuine. So understanding that my jitters were quickly turned to calm gratitude. Not long after I lived next door to Stevie "guitar" Miller and had the pleasure of visiting him, thanks to my gracious land lords. Ooo, I'm a lucky man

[@JJJ5.7]

That Kennedy performance of Stairway to Heaven was incredible...

[@kchaney56]

When the sisters Wilson brought THE Led Zeppelin to tears performing Stairway to Heaven. God bless you both Ann and Nancy, thank you soo much for the music. Keep you in my prayers Ann for your medical issues.

[@Grandmaw438]

So glad I watched this. I had no idea they had all those albums after the 70s early 80s. I had finished college in 81 , got married and began my first career and started a family. I didn’t listen to the radio much after that. I’m going to make sure to listen to their music in the 90s and later! Love them! Praying for Ann for speedy recovery!

[@Zippy-I-O]

Epic Lady Band placed among the GREATEST of all time...Favorite Lady's Band. God, just love 'em. Wishing Ann Wilson's Journey Back to Health to be quick.

[@libbylandscape3560]

Loved Heart, but didn’t hear them until 79 -80, and fell instantly in love. ❤ Wishing Anne the best for a full recovery.

[@stevedriscoll9822]

Ann is on my Mt. Rushmore of Rock singers, man or woman. Wishing her the best.

[@jasonwest3283]

Ann’s voice is absolutely the gold standard that I have measured all other rock vocalists against for the last 40+ years. I still get the chills every time I hear it.

[@PR-BEACHBOY]

So much talent in those two sisters! Amazing! May Ann be healed and may they both live a long, happy, healthy and prosperous life!

[@jeffboyd5412]

I saw Heart in 1985 in Birmingham AL. I loved every second of it. Ann’s voice is Beautiful and so mesmerizing. When she hit those high notes I was totally in love!!

[@MagruderSpoots]

Ann Wilson is second to none.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree!

[@stevemahoney1733]

As a singer? No. As a female singer?.....No. Ann Wilson has a great voice, second to none? No.

[@shavonlynn9317]

Prayers for Ann Wilson❤

[@TimothyOBrien1958]

I got to meet them in 1976, as I recall. They were fronting for the Beach Boys. My cousin was friends with Brian and got us backstage passes. I was 18. It was thrilling. All I could think was how much Ann reminded me of the band Jethro Tull with her flute playing.

[@robertross5201]

One of the greatest bands of all time, fronted by a truly iconic lady-vocalist

[@ProfessorofRock]

She's one in a million!

[@offgridnightmarenewhomeste3215]

I've never seen a better performance in my 59 years! Heart's cover of Stairway to Heaven had Plant in his emotions and Page couldn't smile more! Epic!

[@Llyrin]

I went to a Heart concert at the Baltimore Civic Center in 79. When Nancy led into Silver Wheels, half the crowd (who must not have had the Dreamboat Annie album because they didn’t know what was coming) began to boo. When the rhythm guitar came in and played that iconic riff, it changed to cheers, and I thought, “what a bunch of AWs.” 🤦🏼‍♂️ And from Little Queen, I LOVED Love Alive the moment I heard it the first time.

[@furburgle]

So I'm not the only person who absolutely loves "Love Alive". I rate it as one of the best songs by any artist.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s awesome!

[@Llyrin]

@@furburgle I love the acoustic part. Whenever I play the recording, I HAVE to play along with it. ☺️

[@rebeltuba9422]

Ann Wilson is the greatest female rock singer of all times. Her versatility is amazing, not to mention that she plays acoustic guitar, piano, and startlingly good jazz flute.

[@jimimac2]

Just saw Ann sing on January 11, 2024 at the Shrine Auditorium and her voice is still perfection. Everyone send Ann Wilson a quantum love thought of positive energy to cure the cancer ❤

[@edh9237]

Growing up in Metro Detroit and listening to CJOM, Heart was one of the Bands To See. Motown had moved to La in 1972, and music in our area changed quickly. AM radio held on to Motown as long as it could and we never lost our soul, but FM Rock Rock Radio is what helped us become Detroit Rock City. We are grateful for the bands that made it a point to perform here. Heart was one of the big ones. Looking forward to seeing Heart again after Nancy beats the retched disease. Get better now Nancy!

[@mheuman]

I saw them in 1983 here in Seattle during 5he Passionworks tour, I was enthralled with Ann's voice and Nancy's guitar playing. It inspired me to pick up guitar and I still play to this day. I owe them a big thank you. Best wishes to Ann in her chemo course, may she kick cancer. 🌷

[@yrbadself]

Such a great and talented band. Incredible vocals. Deserve all the recognition that they have ever received.

[@johnnyjohnson1326]

Hands down one of the greatest vocalists EVER. Heart doesn't get enough love outside what gets radio play. One can actually feel the emotion and power she songs with coming through the speakers. Stairway to Heaven tribute was a masterpiece! It still reaches deeply inside me. May the Universe grant Ann Wilson the strength to overcome cancer and grant blessings to her family. Thank you Professor for keeping the music of our youth alive. JJ -South Alabama

[@noizeemama3697]

Ann's voice is excellent. I tear up every time I see Plant tear up. That performance was beyond powerful.

[@TimmyT1972]

I couldn’t agree more that Ann Wilson is the greatest female rock singer of all time. I saw them live a few years back, and was blown away by how she could still belt it out with such powerful vocals. It was one of the most memorable live performances I have ever seen.

[@rdmineer1]

I feel her, Ann. Had my diagnosis last July, stage one but large and high grade. Immediately knew I'd put it off at least a year. My surgery was also successful, though preventative chemo is scheduled for my forever. Hope hers is one and done. It can be the hardest part. She's a keeper, so let's do that. My point: When something odd is going on with your body, SEEK MEDICAL CARE IMMEDIATE.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Praying for you. 🙏

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

Praying for you and recommend you research Joe Tippen’s Protocol. Lots of hope and evidence. 🙏🏻❤️

[@janetarteaga4191]

Ann Wilson and Heart's music literally saved my life when I was young. Thank you Heart ❤! Sending love and prayers to Ann Wilson.

[@ProfessorofRock]

THank you! Rock on!

[@FavoriteMovieDate]

I hope Ann Wilson recovers from her cancer. It is truly a horrible disease. What a lovely woman she still is and of course I agree that she is one of the very best rockers out there.

[@chadbennett7873]

What a simply beautiful episode. I first saw Heart as an opening band on their very first tour to Los Angeles, and I remember seeing Ann play flute on the opening song, and have never seen her do it again ... anywhere. They are special people and a gift to us all. Thank you.

[@DaveWillmore]

I love Heart. They are underrated and should be higher on everyone's list of great bands.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Agreed!

[@sharonrose1226]

I forgot to say. My ex-husband and I saw Heart in concert in the mid 80’s in Indianapolis, IN. My ex absolutely fell in love with Ann and he was glued to the TV every time we saw one of their music videos. She is phenomenal!

[@Cafeman_2D]

My wife and I have watched the performance at Kennedy Center probably dozens of times with cranked volume. It is amazing and never gets old. Ann’s vocals and Heart’s tunes for the past several decades have been stupendous!

[@ROSALIECALIENDO]

I get the chills every time I hear the Wilson’s singing Stairway. FANTASTIC❤

[@ROSALIECALIENDO]

Me 2.

[@terrywbreedlove]

Back when the music was real. Musicians exploring new sounds and writing honest Lyrics. Singers with real voices and taking chances.

[@mom23wASD]

My husband and I had purchased tickets for their concert in Green Bay, WI before they were forced to call off their tour. Ann, if you see this, know that this fan wishes you the very best!!

[@playhooky]

I did also for another location - the Quad Cities/Moline - & am trying to decide whether to hang onto the tickets like they asked or not.

[@mom23wASD]

@@playhooky We are looking at hanging onto ours, at least for now.

[@chris7492]

I have tickets for their Aug. 16 date at Grand Casino amphitheater in Hinckley, MN. Got a notice that is postponed and will be rescheduled.... Hoping she gets well soon and is back to 100% health!

[@AlexandertheGreat99]

I'm so glad I saw Ann in Kingsford, MI last summer!

[@aspalovin]

Ann is the Greatest Singer of all time IMO. We all wish her good health and a successful rest and recovery. She's Magic,,, man.

[@Code.Name.V]

Her voice is indeed historic.

[@stevemahoney1733]

Of all the singers, in even one genre Ann Wilson isn't the greatest so I can't see how she would be the greatest singer of all time, she's not even the greatest female singer.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

My favorite female singer.

[@josephstrouse6369]

Thank you Ann, may a speedy recovery meet you on your journey! So many memories and emotions come flooding back listening to those songs. What an amazing woman and human being.

[@TravisTennies]

Heart and Zeppelin! The two greatest bands of all time! I want to jam with you guys!!! Bassist here. Ann, I wish the best for you! Wish I could tell you all I've learned about fighting the big C! Love you all.

[@scottweissensee3717]

I also wish Ann the best of health and a quick recovery.

[@betsystevenson4046]

It is pure magic to see this interview with Ann Wilson.

[@Brave2standalone]

Wishing the legendary Ann Wilson full recovery and to be with us to perform for decades to come!

[@virgoddess3456]

I loved “Nothing at All.” Takes me right back to exactly where I was when I first heard it.

[@yvonnedrury8718]

Prayers and power of healing to you Ann ❤❤❤❤❤

[@brendastanley8703]

I’ve lost so many people in my life and recently found that my sister and best friend doesn’t have long . Dog and Butterfly has always given me a sense of peace. I find myself listening to it even more at 58 than I did in my teens.❤

[@mindycatriz5195]

😿😿😿🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@anna_in_aotearoa3166]

Brenda, so very sorry to hear re your heartbreaking news. Hope the remaining time you had/have together is deep & meaningful despite all the inevitable challenges. I can't imagine having to say goodbye to my own beloved sisters - huge empathy for all your family as you journey through this.

[@ittybittykittymama7582]

I have lost my younger sister and both my older and younger brothers. I hope you will remember the wonderful days of love you shared and that the memories are stronger than the pain. 🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@RobertL_0563]

Greetings Professor and community! The first ladies of Rock = HEART! I love it and love them! Looking forward to the episode.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@montrealsports29]

I was supposed to see Heart and Cheap Trick in concert next month, but unfortunately the tour is postponed due to Ann Wilson's health. Wishing her all the best in her recovery!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I was going to see them this summer as well. Next year... Fingers crossed!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

This is awful! Let’s all pray for Ann!

[@rondini2]

That would be an awesome double bill !

[@montrealsports29]

@@rondini2 That's why I bought a ticket! I must admit that it was more to see Cheap Trick, but I know that I would have enjoyed Heart, too.

[@carriekoehler1986]

Cheap Trick was amazing in St Louis July 6 with journey and Def Leppard.

[@hara.zisimou]

Heart is a band that even though it has received lots of success, it's still hugely underrated for what it is. It's probably one of those 2 or 3 bands that each of their songs of every decade touches one's soul even if the message behind it is anger,sadness or love.

[@garymackovic7019]

Heart and there music are generational! Your interview and coverage of their music was spot on! Your father would be proud.

[@deborahwhittington8032]

Ann & Nancy Wilson - words cannot express how their music inspired me 🌟🌟🌟

[@wildpinto3291]

I know this sounds made up, but. I'm out foraging mushrooms with my dog. I kicked back on a fallen tree to watch this video as my dog chased a butterfly. My opinion, Ann Wilson has the best female voices of all time. And absolutely nobody but Heart could cover Stairway To Heaven.

[@sovereignbrehon]

Love love love ❤️ 😍 💖

[@cannonball666]

Were you foraging for Amanita Muscaria mushrooms like on the early record labels?

[@wildpinto3291]

@cannonball666 Yeah, maybe that would explain the trails coming off the Dog And Butterfly. Actually, chanterelles.

[@MetFan37]

You've gotta hear Dolly Parton's cover, it'll blow your mind!!

[@playhooky]

@@MetFan37 Really? I'll have to look it up - didn't even know she had covered it. I love Ian Anderson's cover of Zeppelin's Kashmir with violin player Lucia Micarelli!

[@fratberry]

Ann Wilson is simply the best female rock vocalist of all time. And it's not even close. The Stairway to Heaven cover proved that Ann and Nancy Wilson stand at the top of the mountain with the male performers in the history of rock. And I wish Ann nothing but the best in her fight with the demon cancer that took my father last year. Peace and prayer be with you, Ann.

[@gordonschiff3621]

She is fantastic. Pat Benatar is damn good too.

[@cannonball666]

Heart has been covering Led Zepplin even before their first album when they were playing local high schools and pubs in Canada.

[@danluther1741]

God bless & heal you Ann! You have always been Rock royalty to me! MUCH LOVE!!

[@susanfox-mx3nv]

This was brilliant. The songs you chose, the video clips, and the questions you asked were perfect. It helps that you aren't pretentious, and you are mellow. Blessings, Professor.

[@Big_Tex]

“If you ever blew out your speakers playing music way too loud back in the day … that’s why you have tinnitus.”

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha!

[@SpookyEng1]

Can confirm!

[@veronicagee4335]

WHAT?!? LOL

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Still trying not to get it!

[@cindyrobinson3077]

That's me... Also going to see all of them live

[@lorijsp8813]

“…the evolution of this band” while wearing a Journey tee. I see what you did there, Prof. 🎶🤩

[@AHoundOnAHonda]

Although it says "Evovlution" (1:27).

[@lorijsp8813]

@@AHoundOnAHonda I noticed that, too 🤦🏻‍♀️ (-2 spelling 😆). That came a little bit after I commented.

[@AHoundOnAHonda]

​@@lorijsp8813👍

[@AHoundOnAHonda]

@@lorijsp8813 👍

[@larrynoe6162]

Heart is not just a rock band but a legacy powerhouse of hard and soft rock. Their voices were just amazing. There are ver few people that you only need a single word to recognize who it is.

[@mateogarcia3190]

She looks fantastic doesn't she!? Man, aged like wine. I remember when I was first learning guitar and leveled up to my Dad buying me an electric, "Crazy On You" was one of the first cool riffs I learned. Awesome song.

[@donnadoddsilvia8104]

Heart, one truly incredible Band. They are forever etched in my soul. Love them. Rock would never be the same without them. Ann, get well soon. Praying for you all, as cancer (any sickness) involves every member!! ❤ God Bless 😊

[@MyName-pl7zn]

How can sisters have this much talent? Ann's vocals are amazing and Nancy's guitar flat out great. Really liked your picks but These Dreams deserves to be more than honorable mention. Any band that can bring a tear to Plant's eye playing Stairway is there a bigger compliment? Crazy on You is one of my favorite intros ever. Great episode and well put together professor. Prays for Ann💙

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I honestly thought These Dreams would actually be part of the actual top 5!

[@lesalbro8880]

"Dog and Butterfly" was the song that made the teenage me fall in love with Ann Wilson. That sensitive introspection, combined with her amazing voice... It really resonated with me on a personal level. I could very much relate to what she was saying about her own feelings. Subsequently discovering "Dreamboat Annie" definitely reinforced this perception. The world needs more people like her, I hope she's going to be okay. Also Nancy is amazing too, she deserves more credit than she usually seems to get.

[@miask]

Growing up, my favorite bands were ELP, Heart and Renaissance. I studied Opera and would beg my teacher to let me sing Carpet of the Sun and Crazy on You for my recital. She agreed to Carpet of the Sun with no argument, but I had to beg her for Crazy on You. She finally gave in. I sang Habanero and Voi che sapete, then my teacher brought out her guitar and I did Carpet of the Sun, and finally with her on acoustic and her husband on electric, I sang Crazy on You. Some people were shocked but most were supportive. Everyone was impressed whether they agreed with my choices or not. 🙂❤ Ann and Nancy are icons, I pray for Ann’s full recovery.

[@karherineware3508]

Omg, the Kennedy Center performance was just out of this world! It was soooo moving! Led Zeppelin was in tears, I had the chills, the entire audience got transported with that performance! Outstanding!