"Stairway to Heaven" (Led Zeppelin Cover) by Heart, Reaction/Analysis by Musician/Producer

[@StrateleStudios]

ATTENTION: When someone sends me a link to a video to react to that is the video I will react to. I don’t take the liberty to change it as I trust that is the exact version they want to see (in case someone is wondering why I did not react to the full version of this video). Thank you! 😊

[@scottyh8494]

Yes you got short changed unfortunately. The whole 7:59 version was easy enough to get the link off youtube. It is much better than this and a lot more thrilling to watch.

[@debbicozart7130]

There's always a hater

[@StrateleStudios]

@@debbicozart7130 comes with the job 😄. Thats why I’m fortunate to have you and Brad on the channel to balance things out 🫶

[@alexisr5199]

What? This is actually a bit longer version showing John joining the band..

[@marciebulsaraorcutt]

@@alexisr5199The full version is two minutes LONGER than this one, and is actually 100 times better… You should check it out sometime! (Just look for something that says “FULL VERSION” in the title.)

[@MikeInMD1961]

Not sure if this was mentioned, but Ann Wilson was 62 at the time of this tribute, and she was fighting the flu. What a set of pipes!

[@kimk.4710]

Quite simply the BEST Kennedy performance ever.

[@ChuckHackney]

I agree. And as much as I love Zep's original version, this tribute by the amazing group Heart, is my all time fave version of this song.

[@ChuckHackney]

Annie and Nancy rule!!!!!❤

[@rickbowman21]

Agreed!

[@ALousyGolfer1]

Perfect! 👍🏼

[@Zozo-K-]

My favorite part of this video is seeing Jimmy Page so clearly loving every second of this performance.

[@karenmandeville7116]

Jason is his godson, and had told Robert he had a previous obligation when Robert asked him to come. It was a great surprise, and i believe that was Jon's kit that Jason was playing.

[@billoneil6594]

This cover sends chills down my spine every time I watch it. Incredible!!

[@mattthoumine7427]

Quite possibly, the most perfect cover of a song ever. What makes it even better is it was performed live. Everytime I watch this the hairs go up on the back of the neck.

[@sagebooker]

This tribute is a masterpiece, as much for the emotion as much for the quality of the Wilson's interpretation of this classic. I can't help watching it over and over. Thanks for reacting to it too

[@markgalliher5707]

If you separate the emotional impact of the event and performance, you have to give huge credence to the talent of the arranger(s). The slow build, the rhythmic punches and the way that it peaked with the gospel choir at the perfect moment is just sheer artistry.

[@markdecker6190]

Although I've searched a bit I can't find much info on who or how this was put together in the first place. Apparently the sisters were only there for a short period of rehearsal. Shout out to guitarist Shane Fontayne and his great solo.

[@markgalliher5707]

That alone is a tribute to their talent. Thanks for your comment!

[@samanthabamantha5816]

@@markdecker6190 they only had one rehearsal beforehand. Yes, the entire production was pure perfection!

[@mikeb36240]

When you can move Robert Plant to tears you know you did well.🤘😎

[@randyhochstein8455]

Robert said that what had touched him most, was that his Godson (Jason) surprised him by showing up to play unexpectedly. Plus the bowler hats, and Jason’s glance towards “Heaven” at the end.

[@copperhopperwarren4788]

Yes, the band had asked him if he wanted to sit w/ them in his dad's place.... he told them he'd love to but he had another gig he couldn't get out of..😏 That's why Robert stood up at the beginning and was shaking his finger at him 😂

[@EleanorThinks]

I am convinced your goal is now to make us 'oldish' people cry....and we love it!!! Keep it coming 🥰

[@StrateleStudios]

😂😂😂❤

[@rebeccalipps23]

I could watch this performance daily & never tire of it. You might also enjoy The Wilson Sisters performing Zepplin's "Battle of Evermore". I have come across 2 versions. The Seattle version is superior in sound & video quality. Equally as epic as this performance!

[@emeraldenthusiest3932]

Hi Jeff. Love your channel. I'm glad you reacted to it. This was from 2012. Ann was 62 years old at the time. Here is the link for the full version of the performance, which is better than the version you reacted to (the choir is more pronounced and it's longer). Hope you like it even better. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnfbgJR6mq-gjs0

[@debbiewashabaugh9891]

Robert Plant had said that he was nervous about how this song would be performed. But he said he was so happy with it and so pleased with the result.

[@joshuadeshaies7266]

The greatest rock tribute song ever!!! The GOATS were emotional, Robert missed John BONHAM. Also I believe Robert Wrote the lyrics for Stairway. RIP JOHN. Great reaction!!!

[@dominiquepfeiffer9432]

They didn’t abbreviate it, there’s a longer version of this performance.

[@wpollock1]

This is the CBS edit of the performance - there is version with the entire guitar solo that you can check out. Jack Blacks Zep intro is also hilarious.

[@nrsvlda70]

Only a guess, but from videos I’ve seen, the band wasn’t made aware of Jason Bonham being there, and I believe he and Mr. Plant are very close. That could have been part of the reason he was so emotional.. and, as you said, just all the memories flooding in as these tribute songs were sung for them. You might enjoy watching the entire 20 minutes.. all of the singers were amazing, but Heart really knocked it out of the park!

[@vernhoke7730]

Robert asked him to be with him, Jimmy and John. Jason had to make an excuse for not being able to make it as he was part of the tribute.

[@pmjeterjr]

This one still give me chills every time I see it! Thanks!

[@sizzlemann]

I've seen this a few times now. It's still a great watch and listen. There's a great backstory to those lyrics. They're very personal and RP doesn't perform that song anymore.

[@carolynwatkns6304]

Definitely the best cover of stairway to Heaven ever. You must watch the long full version.

[@gregharmon3797]

I’ve watched this so many times

[@billpimentel-vm6cu]

Rock legends playing for Rock Gods

[@larsickenroth7169]

It’s not just Jason’s surprise-presence playing his dads spot, but him and the choir that appears are wearing Bonzo’s classic attire with the bolar-hat. Having them appear out of nowhere to bring it to a close was so powerful…

[@billhealey2060]

A well-spoken review. Thanks for sharing this epic performance. Robert's expression says everything.

[@barryanderson3910]

Good comments, Jeff. You always manage to let us know a little more about you with every reaction. What was Robert Plant thinking? Maybe that it has all gone by too quickly and it would be nice to go back and experience it all again. Jimmy Page looks well for all that he (and the group) has done (if you believe the literature) in their life. As far as who are the best artists, I don't bother myself with that. If you enjoy their music, that's all that's necessary.

[@mgalego4729]

I watched this ceremony some years ago. This was the highest point, surely. It still hits me hard.

[@lgaines62]

Ann Wilson is such a legend! I read that RP said that Heart's performance of Stairway to Heaven was the only cover of it that he ever liked.

[@MoMoMyPup10]

I'm 61, so I think just based on 'getting up there' with them in age I can get a good idea of what Plant is thinking. You're 'on the back 9' of life. You're looking at your whole legacy played out before you on stage, with Jack Black's opening tribute speech and then one band after another giving homage to your old asses. They're British, and they're getting THIS done for them in another country... in front of their president, and they get this kind of tribute/thank you performance, with all the bells and whistles, and it being played by the son of the drummer of the band, and all wearing 'Bolo hats' to honor him?!?! He was definitely caught up in the gravity of the moment, and what his life meant.

[@richardtodd7295]

What a production! Not "new", But it sure is memorable! An outstanding request. And yes, I like it!

[@jaymilu6384]

The long version is available to watch also

[@dougdornseif]

Yep, this one gets me every time still! I was wishing I could tell you as you started the video, "fasten your seatbelt, you're in for a ride!!" It is indeed startling how much time has gotten by since our musical formative years!!

[@naknaksdadn572]

i was going to request this in the future! Nice to see that someone else has. This was a phenomenal performance!

[@mikeb36240]

Here is a great cover from two of todays best vocal preformers Daughtry/Lzzy Hale "Separate Ways" kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2rMiXt3nM-LnqMsi=V-dlusLenjs5Gy_S kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2rMiXt3nM-LnqMsi=V-dlusLenjs5Gy_S

[@keithcorso385]

There’s a lot of brilliance in this performance. Ann Wilson’s vocal and Shane Fontaine’s guitar solo. The real brilliance?…the person who arranged this. Adding the horns, backup singers, strings, and the full choir. Just a visionary.

[@SharonS-fn2ym]

Ann has said in an interview that the whole ensemble only had an hour or so to practice together. Amazing!

[@ChipRobeson-m9g]

Plant asked Jason to join them, but Jason told him he was too busy touring with his band. He’s reaction when Jason walked out tells it all!

[@ChrisGillespie-fe8fq]

Freakin’ epic man!! Wow!!❤

[@StrateleStudios]

It was fun to see Plant’s reaction to seeing Jason Bonham. 👉

[@donnewton415]

THROWN OUT of so many Guitar Centers. :)

[@StrateleStudios]

😂😂😂

[@pjeastwood9241]

You nailed how I feel about Jimmy Page. He WAS a sloppy player, especially when he was stoned or drunk which was a lot of the time. He was also damned brilliant when it came to innovation and composing. Who the hell combines a Theremin, an electric guitar and a violin bow live in concert??? 😁

[@StrateleStudios]

Yes! 👏 👏👏

[@islesanctum833]

Nancy had mentioned that she was very nervous and her hands were stiff from the temperature being very cold Robert was missing his dearest friend Bonzo Missing his son Karac. Robert is the best of a man, a gift to us all

[@worldfamouslanglois4805]

Amazing every time. I wish they'd have amped up Nancy's voice a little bit so it was over the background singers but dang... what a show. Those Heart women kick some ass!

[@kylematheson9991]

That was the edited version from CBS that they took about 2 minutes out of the song there is a full version of the same place

[@islesanctum833]

Great commentary / insights

[@markhopkins3438]

Jason is playing his Dad's drum kit.

[@georgepozega5267]

I saw this when it was o live and was really impressed! This song was really popular when I was in high school. If you want to see another cover of this song that was really well done, The band First to Eleven did a cover with 3 other groups as a colab with each other. The other groups were Violet Orlandi, Lauren Babic, and Addie from Halocene. Here is the link if you want to check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gF7Ym51ojMmbgrM

[@jeffwheaton1733]

The long play version is better if you find it.

[@ChuckDrennen]

Robert Plant has heard so many bad versions of this song. It moved him to hear this. Jason Bonham not only wore his father's bowler hat, he was playing the very same drum set that his father used in the studio.

[@paulriddle7818]

I hope you had a chance to watch the full LZ segment. It was awesome.

[@michaelbecker3397]

The unedited version is much better than this one.

[@Earman54music]

Jason Bonham!

[@MisterJ56]

This rendition always brings tears to my eyes ....... can't help it. Brings back memories ...... buying the album when it came out !! If I'm not mistaken (I'm nearly 68) Jimmy Page got an award (don't know what year) for "Paganini of the year".

[@leerobertson868]

Legends covering Legends

[@jbs256]

Hi Jeff, This was such a magic show. It had all the elements of just being maybe one of the greatest tributes ever. It was goosebumps edge to edge and I felt your emotions coming through. I wasn’t a Zeppelin fan but respected their work and didn’t turn the station. I just wasn’t an album buyer of theirs back in the day. Now with streaming I can catch up on what I missed. Using Ann and Nancy was brilliant, it was perfect. Nancy’s sweet guitar and Ann’s vocal. Shivers. Jason on drums more goosebumps. Heart was a band I did follow but time and age made me forget until this young singer reminded me how great they were and now I’m also using streaming to relive the days of yore. Oh, you couldn’t possibly guess who I’m talking about. The video I’d want to show you is on another service “I” can’t link to it. But there is a mashup video featuring that video from there. So I’ll link that for a reference point. No spoilers here. Just what reminded me of why a young lass would want to grow up to be ❤. The whole damn band. Joe kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWnTo5l9iM6hiM0si=aEqAzFkfOXOckcWn .

[@maryannarep]

I love Jason Bonham and Heart. I always make it a point to watch the Kennedy center honors. They did a great job! Jack Black hosted it. He called it a "zepathon"

[@dbcanada]

Thanks, Jeff. Definitely an emotional tribute. ❤

[@marciebulsaraorcutt]

HI Jeff… Just an FYI: This is NOT Heart’s FULL performance of their Led Zeppelin tribute. (This video you watched was edited down by a couple of minutes for TV broadcasting purposes.) The FULL performance (which IS also on YT)… is SO MUCH BETTER.🙏

[@billfly2186]

Badly edited CBS TV version with bad audio and missing lyrics and solo. Look for the Full Version for a fair reaction.

[@StrateleStudios]

I react to link the requester supplies me.

[@TNKHART]

Such a classic song from back in my day. Heart did a fantastic tribute to the guys of Led Zepplin. I may or may be one of the guilty ones of playing Stairway To Heaven at Guitar Center. Respects.

[@Mtl1508]

Hi Jeff , I love your reactions to these videos and I’m wondering how to suggest a reaction? I searched the site but can’t find out how to. Anyway if you could try the band Silk Sonic and the song leave the door open, I would really appreciate it and i believe you would like them too. Thank you so much

[@StrateleStudios]

Right now my schedule is filled with donation requests. If that interests you there is a link in the description. Thank you! 🫶

[@bradcozart5703]

I love this video! Yes they added some to it but still kept true to the song. Now then, I want to ask you a question. You're a pro guitarist and I wonder if you would have done what Shane Fontayne did? Stand there in front of the man that wrote that solo, one of the most well known in rock, and play it cool as a cucumber? Jimmy Page was counting the riffs as Shane was playing it. I'd have been shaking like a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs 😮. An amazing video of a historic moment in rock & roll. 😎 Thank you for your insight on the video.

[@StrateleStudios]

Honestly, I would have done my best to play it exactly like the original. I’d give him a 7 out of 10. I’m weird, I live for that kind of pressure 😆

[@sunshynff]

Great reaction!! Not sure how this one slipped by me, glad I finally came across it. I quit sharing this story for a while on reactions to this song cause someone said I made it up, and while I have no way of verifying it, I gain nothing by fabricating such a story, it's just something I read online after first seeing this performance, it was a transcript from a radio interview, but it was such a great story she told, and it might give you just a little insight into what you were pondering about, in regards to Roberts thoughts that night, enjoy.... I read an article a couple years after this had been out, with Ann and Nancy Wilson, that was done not too long after this performance, I believe they were still promoting the Fanatic album. They asked Ann if she enjoyed the overwhelmingly great response people had to her and Nancy's performance, especially that night from all her music industry collogues. Ann said yes she was very touched by all the kind words, but to be honest, that night she was only concerned about 3 men's approval, specifically one, Robert Plant. After the show at a big sit down dinner that was held for all the performers and some guests, shortly before the main course was served, Robert approached Ann and Nancy's table. Robert politely nodded hello to everyone, then finally Ann, she said.. then he kind of drifted into thought for a second starring off to space, sighed, and said...."You know, I've always found that song dreadful over the years". Ann said she immediately started to well up with tears, and momentarily felt like she let down one of the people responsible for her becoming a rock n roll singer in the first place. Robert immediately realized the misunderstanding, and said...."No no dear, I meant over the years that song has been so dreadfully over-done by so many people, I've never heard a cover of it that I've enjoyed.........until tonight! Well done by dear, bravo". He then simple kissed her hand and bid her a good evening, Ann said she knew right then and there she could die a happy woman with no regrets.

[@StrateleStudios]

@@sunshynff I can believe that!

[@BakerStudiosIndy]

The very definition of an epic performance. Robert has always taken a very dim view of Stairway covers. His reaction to this one speaks volumes. Ann's vocals stand on their own as the pinnacle of female rock voices. Jason filling in for his late father is a thing of beauty. And Shane Fontayne nailing Jimmy's classic lead guitar riffs in front of Jimmy himself... No pressure there. The choir was nothing short of amazing... Including the bowler hats. Certainly a tribute to top all tributes. I've seen this many times, and each time I am blown away.

[@kurtschmidt9760]

Great reaction. I agree with you about jimmy page. I think maybe you can say the same about David Gilmour, i liked his acoustic a little better then the electric although both were good. Just an opinion and i am sure i will get haters too.

[@StrateleStudios]

👏👏👏🫶

[@bggas400]

Good review. This is one of the greatest productions I've ever seen. I do however wish that people would stop suggesting this particular version because this version cuts out part of the guitar solo. The full version has the entire guitar solo.

[@StrateleStudios]

I do wish I had been given the link for the full version but I never know when I start the reaction.

[@pamjarrett-s9s]

The greatest cover song preformed by any band!

[@davidtullis2810]

Robert Plant said he was thinking about his best friend John Bonham and all the great times they had together. When the chorus at the end were all wearing Bonham's bollar hat broke him

[@StrateleStudios]

🥹

[@oldschoolfink3212]

The story goes, that Robert Plant asked Jason Bonham (his Godson) to attend that event with him. Jason said he had a prior engagement that evening and couldn't make it. That's why Robert was so fired up when Jason was announced. And undoubtedly, a big part of why he was so emotional throughout. Not to mention the performance and the due respect given to the song. Best Live Tribute ever recorded.

[@matto9734]

The emotions... I know this since the beginnings of the 70s...

[@bubsmomma]

I saw the original broadcast. Best number ever at the KC.. Still gives me chills. Ann was in her 60s. She was 71-72 when she sang with Disturbed. Badass

[@bigbow62]

Led Zeppelin: All amazing in their own way.. The grand prize is getting all 4 of them in the same band.... ✌️🙂

[@vernhoke7730]

I've watched interviews with Ann and Nancy, and they were terrified of screwing up in front of the guys. Led Zeppelin was a big influence on them. In fact when I saw Heart they closed out the show with "Rock and Roll" by Zeppelin as a tribute to Elvis. It was August 16th 1977 the day he died.

[@deborahhalbert3372]

When I watch this, I see and hear my youth. My relationship to music and the musicians I’ve known go flying through my brain and for a moment I am young again. I know it’s not true and I do stay young by continuing my appreciation for music, but man, to see a performance like this, you kind of have to tear up. I’m so very thankful…

[@Mrtellitlikeitis]

Jason Bonham the son of the original drummer John Bonham was the drummer here, which caused the emotion you saw. It was a surprise and he was flooded with emotion because Robert Plant had to tell Jason when he was a small boy, that his father had died. They were the best friends, and memories came rushing back. I heard a interview about this performance

[@tazmom0]

"No Stairway??? Denied" -Wayne Campbell

[@tomswanson7446]

A dedication to the greatest rock band that ever walked the planet

[@chetstevensq]

Two outstanding cover songs ever: This one and Cheap Trick performing Don't Be Cruel.

[@pepevisedo7304]

At those events in tribute to historical artists, at the White House (or at the Academy, or at the Kennedy Center Honors, it doesn't matter), spectacular bands are always organized. This one even has Lou Marini (one of my three favorite living saxophonists) in the crowd. Too bulky? Maybe, but I love it

[@devoncooper8296]

Great reaction!!! In your own time, watch the whole tribute. It’s amazing 🤩🤩

[@jbach4311]

Jeff, The Greatest Rock Production Ever!! I.M.O. Heart what a great Choice!! Though the Guitar SOLO was a little Sloopy on this one.

[@chystubin07]

Who wasn't effected by that ❤ and everyone wearing Jon's Derby 😪

[@wilksy2008]

Ohhhh, I am so here for this 👀🤤

[@marciebulsaraorcutt]

This edited version that was shortened for broadcasting purposes, feels/sounds “homogenized” compared to the original longer performance.🖖

[@suzie4417]

One of the Best Kennedy Center Tributes ever 💗💗💗☮️☮️☮️ Robert Plant was very touched by the performance by Ann & Nancy 🥲😍 Jimmy Page & JP Jones,loved the whole performance, Jason surprised them & played his Dad’s drums, Shayne Fontayne on guitar was fantastic and the choir with bowler hats & singing to Led Zep really was touching !! a few other great Kennedy Center Awards are Tributes to Tina Turner, Al Green, James Brown and many others 🥰

[@laurasmith2522]

Ypu should watch the i whole tribute its wonderful and even after seeing this maybe 100xs i still choke up seeing Jason B. Pkaying in his dads place . . 😢

[@nancysewell6670]

I believe this might have been the shortened version of the original performance. Incredible voice, incredible performance!

[@bigbow62]

If i had a guess Robert was missing his best friend and former band mate Jon Bonham ❤ (RIP Jon) Ann Wilson the best womans voice in rock and at 60+... WOW !

[@robertstrohm2412]

One needs to remember that John Bonham was Robert’s best friend. Add Jason to the mix and that choir all wearing a bowler hat in tribute to John I mean, who could keep it together? Also, Jason was playing his father’s kit, notice John’s symbol on the kick bass? Great reactions sir. Really enjoy your knowledge and background. ❤

[@capthegoat]

There was a comment on another reaction by on of the people in that choir. That person said that during the rehearsals it was Dave Krohl playing drums. Jason was a surprise to EVERYONE! Bowlers on the “Heavenly Choir” fantastic! The guys loved it per their own words on Dave Letterman!

[@stpnwlf9]

The tribute was hosted and introduced by Jack Black (hilariously, I might add) and featured LZ covers by the Foo Fighters, Kid Rock, and Lenny Kravitz in addition to the Wilson sisters. If you can find video of the entire tribute, it is well worth watching! By the way, the lead guitar solo was by Shane Fontaine, a well-respected studio guitarist - can't imagine the pressure he felt.

[@suevan50]

There's a full version that you should check out. This leaves some of the tribute out.

[@rickpopham5400]

Yeah, they cut the heck out of this and it still hits pretty hard. There IS a "full" version floating around, but it leaves out the full intro.

[@icu___]

TFW you see possibly your greatest musical statement done the best it's ever been done.

[@randygreen927]

I'm so frustrated that this chopped up for tv version exists. The full complete song version is out there and it flows so much better. Zeps reactions make more sense in real time.

[@johnpagniello2178]

I know I'm late to the party but it was mentioned by Heart that this was the only version Plant has ever liked. Plant has said in past he doesn't like renditions of this song done by others. Plus Heart had only one rehearsal of this, that amazing. just wish he mic was turned up a bit more.

[@alexisr5199]

They asked John to be there for this. He told them he had other thing to do. Hehe. When they see John you can see the their acknowledgement, like ok I got it now. Nice reaction. Also, I have heard you sentanments bout Jimmies playing. I do not no enuff to judge on that.

[@daylanhamilton2930]

Gives me chills every time I hear this version!!

[@melissakhalar1842]

Chills every time I watch this.❤❤❤

[@Beauty-and-the-Dia-betes]

I've watched this cover so many times. It always sounds new every single time.