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That's not the FULL version, search YT for the one that says Complete. Led Zeppelin - Kennedy Center Honors (complete) (I would put the link but You Tube hides or deletes comments with links)
@@paulinestavaris3114 It's not so much Jimmy or John Paul as they, especially Jimmy, really get their contribution to rock and can appreciate those who want to emulate them as part of their growth into their own style. Robert Plant is the one who really took issue with people trying to cover Stairway and felt no one could ever do it justice. Heart was really the only group they gave real exception to for covering their songs. This cover of Stairway really hit all the marks in style and paid true homage to the band, something you can see in Plant's approval of the performance at the end.
The drummer was Jason Bonham, son of the original LZ drummer John Bonham. That made the whole performance that much more emotional for the original guys in the band, Robert Plant in particular. You don't even have to be a big Led Zeppelin fan (or a big Heart fan for that matter) to get goose bumps from this performance. Kennedy Center Honors has had some truly amazing performances over the years, but this one is right up near the top of the list for sure!
I can only imagine that pressure to perform that funderfull peace of music in front of its creators, over 40 years its original been performed. And it still is live today, one of new classics.
It was later publicized that Led Zeppelin went back stage to the Heart sisters and said they and the orchestra played the best version of the song ever. I've listened to this rendition no less than 30 times.
Stairway as originally played was fantastic, but this performance really illustrates how something can originally be missing that grandiose level that brings it to the heights it should have. It's a song that was always destined to be bigger in scope and detail than it ever was.
The queens of rock and roll performing to the best rock band in history. A legendary moment. Growing up with these bands was the best! Hearing them again brings back a flood of wonderful memories seeing them live.
@@1hankmeister Yes. That was his dad's set. I haven't been able to figure out if it is the one that originally played Stairway but it probably is since it was recorded for LZ IV. Drummers tend to have an eclectic personality when it comes to sets, though. Some stuff HAS to stay the same, and then some stuff just HAS to change. The Throne being the most important and sacred of all.. :D
Seeing Robert Plant welling up says it all. The loss of John Bonham was deeply personal to the band and resulted in their end. Being a huge Led Zeppelin fan and seeing Jason playing the amazing tribute on his dad drums also gets me choked up each time I see it.
John "Bonzo" Bonham died in 1980, He and lead singer Robert Plant were best buds since their teen. Bonzo often wore a black bowler hat, so when the choir and John's son Jason had them on-well, Robert just could not hold back. Neither could I when I watched it. Glad you did this one, Polo.
Yes so many people forget that's as much at the heart of the tribute is still wearing the bowlers the choir that brings me to tears more than anything else
I can't imagine what it must have been like for that guitarist to play THAT solo right in front of Jimmy Page. Wonderful performance - and the guys being honored genuinely seemed to enjoy it.
@@annettehesselius74 His name is Shayne Fontayne. He was probably best known for being in the band, Lone Justice, in the 1980s, but he played and toured with lots of folks - from Bruce Springsteen to Ian Hunter.
Ann Wilson talked about this performance some time later. She talked about running into Robert Plant at this show and he said to Ann, "You know, I never like when someone performs that song. But I liked it tonight." And you can see it. Plant was moved to tears up in that balcony. Just a magical performance all around.
I grew up in Seattle - Heart was notorious for playing zeppelin covers and killing them - zeppelin apparently was a fan of them. Coincidentally, Cameron Crow was married to Nancy Wilson - and was the first entity that zeppelin allowed to license thier songs (see almost famous). They are a tight circle and it's really cool. Used to see heart in clubs in BC belting this out.
As was my thought when I heard someone was attempting a cover. It was a major production and it was very well done. Not the original but worth appreciation
@@jeffblevins5899 The tough part is that time is a harsh master to all of us. I heard Ann & Nancy doing Barracuda earlier in October '23 and it hurt me to hear Ann use voice tricks and curveballs to get through it.
@@jeffblevins5899I grew up in Vancouver BC and remember Heart being regulars up here in the 70s, although damn it I wasn’t old enough to see them in the bars. I didn’t know Nancy was married to Cameron Crowe. Very cool so thanks for sharing that tidbit and the Zeppelin connection. I’ve watched Almost Famous a few times and never get tired of it.
Robert had actually invited Jason to accompany LZ to this event. Jason replied he had a gig scheduled for that night and declined. That's why you see the reaction from Robert when Jason is introduced. Beautiful.
Story goes that he was pretty angry at Jason since it was such a huge honor to his dad and it seemed like he was ditching for a minor gig. Imagine being invited to play your dad's set on a performance of one of his group's most revered songs.... could you really resist a bit of a prank on of the legends you grew up knowing?
Ann Wilson has one of the most powerful female voices. And her sister Nancy can play a mean guitar. This is one of the best tributes to Led Zeppelin with Ann & Nancy doing the classic song "Stairway To Heaven". No one else could have pulled it off as well. "Heart" have had so many great hits such as "Magic Man", "Crazy On You", "What About Love", "Never", "Dog & Butterfly", "These Dreams", "Alone" etc.
That's interesting because I was thinking who in today's music industry could have pulled this off . I couldn't think of anyone . Lady GA GA maybe ? Cheers .
@@grayd509Brandi Carlisle maybe? After seeing the Joni Mitchell Blue album live at the Gorge show she did this summer, she could probably do it justice. But Heart aced this - especially with Jason on the kit and everyone wearing bowlers. Peace from Toronto
Ann Wilson & Gracie Slick are the powerhouse female singer/rockers. No one comes close to them. "Magic Man" is my favorite of Heart's songs. My Dad came home one day to find me watching a music special of Heart. He said, "Ugh, a girl band." And I replied, "That's right. they're Sisters, & they're terrific. Sit down & listen." Well, when the concert was over, Dad said, "Wow, they girls really know how to rock." I came home the next week to find my Dad watching a rebroadcast of that concert. That's how much he liked them.
I've seen this so many times now and I never get tired of it. To me, it's the perfect combination of bringing something new to the song, and being faithful to the original.
Can you believe Ann was 62 here? Talk about aging into your voice!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤ And imagine the stones it took for Shane Fontayne to play that solo right in front of Jimmy Page!
@@tm2bee Would have been so easy to totally murder it... "Hang on! Go back a couple of bars, let's go again" I imagine he'd been practicing it so much he could play it in a coma if need be.
I remember seeing this live on TV when my dad and I were just flipping through channels. We caught it just as they were introducing Heart, and when it was done, my dad and I just kind of looked at each other because we couldn't believe how incredible it was. Makes me cry almost every time I hear it.
I am physically unable to watch this clip without having tears running down my cheeks. The gravitas behind it all just grabs me emotionally and pulls me in. Jason on the drums, and that this was the culmination of a show where many world class musicians had paid tribute to Led Zep. It's just beautiful.
Same! And the memories this song brings up and Ann Wilson's voice... the song of my childhood with the singer of my teenage years. It brings me to tears every damn time and trust me, it takes a lot to make me cry. This does it though.
Absolutely incredible!! This is possibly the greatest “cover song” ever!! The emotions from everyone just give it another level of incredible!! Ann Wilson proves once again why she is regarded as on of the best vocalist in music!! Thank you for the fantastic reaction!👏👏
Yeah man, what else can we say? This is simply magical. Worth noting that Heart has performed several Led Zeppelin covers at their live shows over the years, such as Black Dog, Misty Mountain Hop, Going to California, Battle of Evermore, and they nail it every time. Something about Anne's tone, range, and charisma; even though she doesnt sound like Robert Plant, she still perfectly matches the energy, emotion, and story of those songs. Five Stars.
This gets better every time I watch it. Wonder what it was like to be Plant, Jones, and Page sitting there reflecting on their lives in music and realizing they actually made a dent in the culture.
I love the way layers are added as the song progresses and the reaction of the band when the curtain rises revealing the huge choir in back! When the creators of the music are wowed then you know it’s a magical moment. I have seen this performance many time and I still cry every time!
Listen AND watch ... loooove seeing the reactions, the head nods .. note for note .. waiting .. watching .. hearing .. and the damp eyes .. lol .. love it, pure emotions!
This version, cover, rendition, call it what you choose... is one of THE most POWERFUL covers of all time. Few songs have a cover that does justice to the original, but with Jason on the drum kit, Anne's pipes belting, and the choir coming in and taking us to church... I've seen Robert Plant in several forms outside of LZ, and he's not an outwardly emotional kind of guy in tears and Jason almost looking like his Dad while performing, it is VERY hard to not be just moved by this!
In 1971 I was 4. I grew up listening to music. My brother was 7 years older. He listened to music all of the time. I don’t remember hearing this for the first time. It was just part of the fabric of my life. I so enjoy 70s music. My parents finally bought him some headphones. 😂
I was born a child of the 50s and cut my teeth on the music of the likes of the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and such. Stairway to Heaven was THE tune that was almost like an anthem. This cover brings me such joy and tears at the same time. I'm 69 years old but I pride myself in exploring the newest music talent out there and there are certainly some folks cutting their teeth on today's talent. Still...my rock heroes are slowly leaving us. Hearing this cover rockets me back to those years. Ahhh...when we were young...
Heart outdid themselves and with Bonham’s son on drums it was magic! The original was magic but this version really paid homage to Led Zeppelin! Nicely done!
Amazing performance. What I loved most of all, besides Ann & Nancy Wilson, was the presence of singers and artists of all races and backgrounds up on that stage. Just goes to show you that Rock 'n' Roll is for EVERYBODY. 🤘🏻🫶🏻🤘🏻
Ann honored this song well. Such a great performer. Even more amazing was watching the emotion on the faces of LZ as she performed. Even better when the choir joined! I have watched this two many times to count. It's excellent!!
Led Zeppelin's lead singer, Robert Plant, was brought to tears because of the drummer, Jason Bonham. Jason is the son of John Bonham, the band's original drummer and Robert's best friend, whose death in 1980 resulted in the end of the band. They had invited Jason to represent his Dad at this ceremony honoring Led Zeppelin. But Jason told them he had a scheduling conflict. The conflict turned out to be walking out on stage to surprise the band by playing the drums during the tribute. Look at how surprised and happy Robert is when they introduced Jason at the beginning. The tears came as Robert thought about his friend and was sad he could not be there. It's also very poignant to watch Jason look up toward heaven, thinking undoubtedly about his Dad, as Anne sings the word heaven in last line of the song.
It would have been so much great fun to have been amongst any of these great & fantastic musicians. They were brilliant collaborating & 🎉🎉working as a team of stars they are!
As others have mentioned, drummer Jason Bonham is the son of the late Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham. The bowler hat he and others were wearing was also in tribute to John, as he would occasionally wear one in concert onstage (you can look up images online of John Bonham wearing a bowler). Jason tells a story that Robert had invited him as his guest to attend the honors however, Jason had to turn him down because he was performing - he said it was the most difficult secret he'd ever had to keep. I hope you react to the band perform this from Madison Square Garden. Trust me, it is not overkill and will be worth it.
Neil Peart of Rush will always and forever be my favorite percussionist, but John Bonham, with his flawless technique and unique sound, has a special place with me as well. I've heard several of the Wilson sisters' covers of Zeppelin's songs, and Ann's voice and Nancy's guitar virtuosity are among the few that could do them justice.
The drummer in the cover is the son of the original drummer of Led Zeppelin. The father passed away, so it's more than just a tribute to the band, it's also a tribute from son to father.
I’ve watched this performance probably close to 100 times over the last decade. Still brings me to tears, and I’m not a led zeppelin fan or heart fan really, I just find this performance and song to be absolutely phenomenal
This is the best tribute ever. From Ann and Nancy, to Jason, to the amazing Choir, there is nothing about this performance that isn't perfect. And all the men were moved to tears, absolutely beautiful moment.
The great vocal talents of Ann Wilson and guitar playing of her sister Nancy. Together they are rock and roll powerhouse that is Heart. No other female singer could have pulled that off flawlessly like they did.
Yes, we love our Zeppelin, lol 😊 So epic, I hope you’ve listened to more! All of My Love was written by Robert Plant after his 5 year old son tragically died 😢 I also LOVE When the Levee Breaks, which doesn’t get so much love. It’s so good though!
I get the chills and emotional EVERY SINGLE time I watch this ❤️ especially because The drummer Jason, his dad was the drummer for Led Zeppelin. He did his dad proud ❤️
I can't tell you how many times I've watched this performance, including all the reactions to it out there and it still brings tears to my eyes. The one you reviewed was an edited version, the longer complete 7-minute one is out there too with a better more pronounced edit of Nancy's incredible vocals.
Yes! Supernatural and Magical! I have watched that performance about 20 times! It gives me chills each time. To see the original composers and performers enjoying it was so special! Thank you for sharing your reaction.
I’ve watched this video at least 50 times and every time I watch it I get emotional and tear up- it is so powerful and so perfect! I absolutely love watching the three surviving members of Led Zeppelin reactions- Jimmy Page created what is in my opinion, the number one Rock song of all time. Nancy and Anne Wilson perhaps the best cover of any original song! Just incredible.
I’m almost 63, so this was my youth. Heart has always been one of my absolute favorite bands and while I wasn’t a Led Zeppelin fan per se, this song is a beautiful, moving, classic. Heart doing this song was indeed magical. I’ve seen this before, but it still moves me. I cried all the way through. It’s cool seeing younger generations discover the amazing music I grew up with.
Ann and Nancy commented on how they were performing in front of Led Zeppelin AND the President. “No pressure” they said. They had also bumped into Robert, Jimmy and JPJ beforehand but couldn’t say why they were in town. You probably know the meaning behind the hats (Bonzo wore it).. Robert got tired of the song, but with Jason there, etc. it brought tears to his eyes.
That song could NOT have been better represented. Driving them to tears realizing someone finally KNOWS how to play the same way they felt has to be the most utmost forms of respect
I remember watching this when it aired and being blown away. When that screen rose and revealed the choir...chills. Also, Jack Black's intro of Led Zeppelin was hilarious :D
I had the privilege of going through my teens in the 70's. I am now 67 years old and this song has always been one of my favorites. Still brings chills and a lot of memories. You have only just begun a wonderful time of music and rock and roll. GOD Bless❤️🙏🇺🇸🕊️
Was never a huge Led Zeppelin fan, but knew many of their songs, but this version of stairway to heaven is amazing- Thanks for the reaction. Glad you enjoyed it also.
Seeing Heart live was THE most captivating and greatest sounding show I've been to, to date. The audience couldn't get enough. And I've seen some HUGE names in rock music where the connection between the people and the music wasn't as apparent.
There are some classic songs you don’t touch because they are so iconic. This is one of them, but Ann Wilson and Heart are well respected and kill the hell out of a song. Not to mention having Jason Bonham there. Seeing the emotion from LZ is everything you need to know.
Seeing Yo-Yo Ma grooving to the song in the audience, you know you're doing something right. I can only imagine the electricity in the theater that night. What an amazing tribute.
So so awesome to do this tribute to them while they are here to enjoy this! What a moment. The whole show the year this was done 2012 is AMAZING!! Go back and watch the whole show. They did Buddy Guy and Letterman also.
The guy at 05:42 grooving to the sound is Yo Yo Ma, possibly the premier classical cellist in the world today, and someone who is able to appreciate both the old and new masters of classical music.
This is what I wanted you to react to since you listened to the original. I’m a 72 year old grandma, when my 70 year old brother and I get together we always watch this. Always get goosebumps. Love this!
I always watch the Kennedy Honors. This by far was the best performance I’ve ever seen performed there. Led Zepplin is my favorite band….I got the chills during this performance.
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You should see the full length version of this. This one is edited to be quite a bit shorter.
Not only is Jason the original drummer son he's wearing his dad's head and playing his dad's drum kit
Just Epic
That's not the FULL version, search YT for the one that says Complete.
Led Zeppelin - Kennedy Center Honors (complete)
(I would put the link but You Tube hides or deletes comments with links)
Thank you for doing this one! I've been waiting sooooo long and you did it justice. 🙏🙏👍👍❤❤
This wasn't a cover.... It was Artists paying Homage to legends.
Ann & Nancy should legally be the only people allowed to play this live.
I'm sure Robert, Jimmy and John Paul would agree with you. Don't they dislike whenever anyone covers this song?
Its legends playing homage to legends
@@paulinestavaris3114 It's not so much Jimmy or John Paul as they, especially Jimmy, really get their contribution to rock and can appreciate those who want to emulate them as part of their growth into their own style. Robert Plant is the one who really took issue with people trying to cover Stairway and felt no one could ever do it justice. Heart was really the only group they gave real exception to for covering their songs. This cover of Stairway really hit all the marks in style and paid true homage to the band, something you can see in Plant's approval of the performance at the end.
The drummer was Jason Bonham, son of the original LZ drummer John Bonham. That made the whole performance that much more emotional for the original guys in the band, Robert Plant in particular. You don't even have to be a big Led Zeppelin fan (or a big Heart fan for that matter) to get goose bumps from this performance. Kennedy Center Honors has had some truly amazing performances over the years, but this one is right up near the top of the list for sure!
When they all had on hats…😢
Chokes me up every time...
Jason's presence was a surprise to the band.
They had invited him to sit with them but he told them he had a gig that night... 😂
Couldn't agree more, amazing performance
I can only imagine that pressure to perform that funderfull peace of music in front of its creators, over 40 years its original been performed. And it still is live today, one of new classics.
It was later publicized that Led Zeppelin went back stage to the Heart sisters and said they and the orchestra played the best version of the song ever. I've listened to this rendition no less than 30 times.
Stairway as originally played was fantastic, but this performance really illustrates how something can originally be missing that grandiose level that brings it to the heights it should have. It's a song that was always destined to be bigger in scope and detail than it ever was.
Can you imagine leaving this kind of legacy behind? This will song will be remembered forever.
The queens of rock and roll performing to the best rock band in history. A legendary moment. Growing up with these bands was the best! Hearing them again brings back a flood of wonderful memories seeing them live.
The fact that Jason was playing his dad's part AND his DRUMS! That gets me every time!
Those were his dad's??? Phenomenal.
He was also wearing one of his hats.@@1hankmeister
@@1hankmeister Yes. That was his dad's set. I haven't been able to figure out if it is the one that originally played Stairway but it probably is since it was recorded for LZ IV. Drummers tend to have an eclectic personality when it comes to sets, though. Some stuff HAS to stay the same, and then some stuff just HAS to change. The Throne being the most important and sacred of all.. :D
Seeing Robert Plant welling up says it all. The loss of John Bonham was deeply personal to the band and resulted in their end. Being a huge Led Zeppelin fan and seeing Jason playing the amazing tribute on his dad drums also gets me choked up each time I see it.
John "Bonzo" Bonham died in 1980, He and lead singer Robert Plant were best buds since their teen. Bonzo often wore a black bowler hat, so when the choir and John's son Jason had them on-well, Robert just could not hold back. Neither could I when I watched it. Glad you did this one, Polo.
Apparently Bonzo was also the only member of the band to attend the funeral of Plant's young son.
Yes so many people forget that's as much at the heart of the tribute is still wearing the bowlers the choir that brings me to tears more than anything else
I can't imagine what it must have been like for that guitarist to play THAT solo right in front of Jimmy Page. Wonderful performance - and the guys being honored genuinely seemed to enjoy it.
Yes very brave, who is he?
@@annettehesselius74 His name is Shayne Fontayne. He was probably best known for being in the band, Lone Justice, in the 1980s, but he played and toured with lots of folks - from Bruce Springsteen to Ian Hunter.
@@citizenghosttown Thank you !
Fun fact they had to reinforce the stage to account for the massive weight of his balls
Ann Wilson talked about this performance some time later. She talked about running into Robert Plant at this show and he said to Ann, "You know, I never like when someone performs that song. But I liked it tonight." And you can see it. Plant was moved to tears up in that balcony. Just a magical performance all around.
I grew up in Seattle - Heart was notorious for playing zeppelin covers and killing them - zeppelin apparently was a fan of them. Coincidentally, Cameron Crow was married to Nancy Wilson - and was the first entity that zeppelin allowed to license thier songs (see almost famous). They are a tight circle and it's really cool. Used to see heart in clubs in BC belting this out.
As was my thought when I heard someone was attempting a cover. It was a major production and it was very well done. Not the original but worth appreciation
@@jeffblevins5899 The tough part is that time is a harsh master to all of us. I heard Ann & Nancy doing Barracuda earlier in October '23 and it hurt me to hear Ann use voice tricks and curveballs to get through it.
@@982spyder5 She would be in her 70's, so after 60 or more years of singing, how would your voice be?
@@jeffblevins5899I grew up in Vancouver BC and remember Heart being regulars up here in the 70s, although damn it I wasn’t old enough to see them in the bars. I didn’t know Nancy was married to Cameron Crowe. Very cool so thanks for sharing that tidbit and the Zeppelin connection. I’ve watched Almost Famous a few times and never get tired of it.
Robert had actually invited Jason to accompany LZ to this event. Jason replied he had a gig scheduled for that night and declined. That's why you see the reaction from Robert when Jason is introduced. Beautiful.
Too cool!
Beautiful surprise
It was so special
Wow. Thanks for the bit of data there. Been watching this for years and never knew that. 🤙🏽
Story goes that he was pretty angry at Jason since it was such a huge honor to his dad and it seemed like he was ditching for a minor gig. Imagine being invited to play your dad's set on a performance of one of his group's most revered songs.... could you really resist a bit of a prank on of the legends you grew up knowing?
I love how Robert Plant and Jimmy Page were admiring the performance and seeing a few tears from Robert, priceless!!!
Can you imagine playing that solo in front of Jimmy Page live?
To me stairway to heaven awakens so many beautiful memories I experienced while listening to led Zeppelin
Ann Wilson has one of the most powerful female voices. And her sister Nancy can play a mean guitar. This is one of the best tributes to Led Zeppelin with Ann & Nancy doing the classic song "Stairway To Heaven". No one else could have pulled it off as well. "Heart" have had so many great hits such as "Magic Man", "Crazy On You", "What About Love", "Never", "Dog & Butterfly", "These Dreams", "Alone" etc.
Nancy isn’t to shabby on the vocals either.
Most definitely, Ann can sing sweet or hard and anything in between.
That's interesting because I was thinking who in today's music industry could have pulled this off . I couldn't think of anyone . Lady GA GA maybe ? Cheers .
@@grayd509Brandi Carlisle maybe? After seeing the Joni Mitchell Blue album live at the Gorge show she did this summer, she could probably do it justice. But Heart aced this - especially with Jason on the kit and everyone wearing bowlers. Peace from Toronto
Ann Wilson & Gracie Slick are the powerhouse female singer/rockers.
No one comes close to them.
"Magic Man" is my favorite of Heart's songs.
My Dad came home one day to find me watching a music special of Heart. He said, "Ugh, a girl band." And I replied, "That's right. they're Sisters, & they're terrific. Sit down & listen." Well, when the concert was over, Dad said, "Wow, they girls really know how to rock." I came home the next week to find my Dad watching a rebroadcast of that concert. That's how much he liked them.
When the members of Led Zeppelin give you a standing ovation for their own most popular song, you know you've done something amazing.
Respect to Heart for taking that gig. Cant imagine the pressure of doing this in front of Plant and Page. Drummer is son of original Led Zepp drummer.
Don't forget John Paul Jones!
There is a story behind the lack of time they had to prep !! 5:12
I've seen this so many times now and I never get tired of it. To me, it's the perfect combination of bringing something new to the song, and being faithful to the original.
I've seen several times myself and I always get goose bumps and come to tears. Emotionally gratifying.
lol. I make a POINT of watching it on a regular basis. It truly IS a magical moment.
I cannot get enough!
I can’t watch this too often. Every time I do, I still get goosebumps. Amazing 🥲
The bowler hat was a trademark of John Bonham, their drummer and Jason’s father (RIP). Such a great tribute ❤
Can you believe Ann was 62 here? Talk about aging into your voice!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤
And imagine the stones it took for Shane Fontayne to play that solo right in front of Jimmy Page!
Every time I watch this video and it gets to his solo I think about that. Guts!
@@tm2bee Would have been so easy to totally murder it... "Hang on! Go back a couple of bars, let's go again"
I imagine he'd been practicing it so much he could play it in a coma if need be.
And he introduced some of his own ideas, perfectly synthesized with page’s original licks: excellent playing !
I can’t imagine doing it. And Jimmy acted like he enjoyed it too. Talk about kudos on a great performance. It was magical.
Jimmy Page - greatest guitarist of the past 100 yrs in my opinion but I’m a led zep fan from my teen yrs
I remember seeing this live on TV when my dad and I were just flipping through channels. We caught it just as they were introducing Heart, and when it was done, my dad and I just kind of looked at each other because we couldn't believe how incredible it was. Makes me cry almost every time I hear it.
I am physically unable to watch this clip without having tears running down my cheeks. The gravitas behind it all just grabs me emotionally and pulls me in. Jason on the drums, and that this was the culmination of a show where many world class musicians had paid tribute to Led Zep. It's just beautiful.
I'm right there with you😢
Same here. I have watched this so many times. Perfectly produced and performed.
The only thing, it would of been nice to hear the whole song..
Same! And the memories this song brings up and Ann Wilson's voice... the song of my childhood with the singer of my teenage years. It brings me to tears every damn time and trust me, it takes a lot to make me cry. This does it though.
Absolutely incredible!! This is possibly the greatest “cover song” ever!! The emotions from everyone just give it another level of incredible!! Ann Wilson proves once again why she is regarded as on of the best vocalist in music!!
Thank you for the fantastic reaction!👏👏
Simply put, the best cover of one of the best songs ever recorded.
Imagine performing this to Led Zeppelin themselves. Awesome
Yeah man, what else can we say? This is simply magical. Worth noting that Heart has performed several Led Zeppelin covers at their live shows over the years, such as Black Dog, Misty Mountain Hop, Going to California, Battle of Evermore, and they nail it every time. Something about Anne's tone, range, and charisma; even though she doesnt sound like Robert Plant, she still perfectly matches the energy, emotion, and story of those songs. Five Stars.
When Heart were starting out in Vancouver Canada they were basically a Led Zeppelin cover band.
This gets better every time I watch it. Wonder what it was like to be Plant, Jones, and Page sitting there reflecting on their lives in music and realizing they actually made a dent in the culture.
Amazing,that gospel choir.love,love,love
I love the way layers are added as the song progresses and the reaction of the band when the curtain rises revealing the huge choir in back! When the creators of the music are wowed then you know it’s a magical moment. I have seen this performance many time and I still cry every time!
This performance gave me goosebumps despite hearing it many times before.
Probably the best tribute to a band I’ve ever seen. Everyone absolutely killed it. Like you said, a magical moment.
I agree 💯% !!
Best rendition ever. Heart did a stellar job on this. I listen to it over and over
Listen AND watch ... loooove seeing the reactions, the head nods .. note for note .. waiting .. watching .. hearing .. and the damp eyes .. lol .. love it, pure emotions!
This version, cover, rendition, call it what you choose... is one of THE most POWERFUL covers of all time. Few songs have a cover that does justice to the original, but with Jason on the drum kit, Anne's pipes belting, and the choir coming in and taking us to church...
I've seen Robert Plant in several forms outside of LZ, and he's not an outwardly emotional kind of guy in tears and Jason almost looking like his Dad while performing, it is VERY hard to not be just moved by this!
This brings me to tears. The music of my generation will live forever! Thanks Polo!!
In 1971 I was 4. I grew up listening to music. My brother was 7 years older. He listened to music all of the time. I don’t remember hearing this for the first time. It was just part of the fabric of my life. I so enjoy 70s music. My parents finally bought him some headphones. 😂
I was born a child of the 50s and cut my teeth on the music of the likes of the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and such. Stairway to Heaven was THE tune that was almost like an anthem. This cover brings me such joy and tears at the same time. I'm 69 years old but I pride myself in exploring the newest music talent out there and there are certainly some folks cutting their teeth on today's talent. Still...my rock heroes are slowly leaving us. Hearing this cover rockets me back to those years. Ahhh...when we were young...
Robert Plant and Jimmy raised Jon's son as their own and made sure his he & his mom were well taken care of for life
Heart outdid themselves and with Bonham’s son on drums it was magic! The original was magic but this version really paid homage to Led Zeppelin! Nicely done!
I shed a tear for Jason Bonham, as Robert Plant just managed to hold it back... Fantastic music, fantastic version, and a fantastic audience...
Amazing performance. What I loved most of all, besides Ann & Nancy Wilson, was the presence of singers and artists of all races and backgrounds up on that stage. Just goes to show you that Rock 'n' Roll is for EVERYBODY. 🤘🏻🫶🏻🤘🏻
Some tunes move you. Some tunes change you. This rendition does both. Nothing but tears of appreciation here. So thankful to have a song this moving.
Ann honored this song well. Such a great performer. Even more amazing was watching the emotion on the faces of LZ as she performed. Even better when the choir joined! I have watched this two many times to count. It's excellent!!
Again. I am 76 and watching YOU. GET IT. THRILLS ME....THRILLS COME FAR AND BETWEEN, ,,THANK YOU
Led Zeppelin's lead singer, Robert Plant, was brought to tears because of the drummer, Jason Bonham. Jason is the son of John Bonham, the band's original drummer and Robert's best friend, whose death in 1980 resulted in the end of the band. They had invited Jason to represent his Dad at this ceremony honoring Led Zeppelin. But Jason told them he had a scheduling conflict. The conflict turned out to be walking out on stage to surprise the band by playing the drums during the tribute. Look at how surprised and happy Robert is when they introduced Jason at the beginning. The tears came as Robert thought about his friend and was sad he could not be there. It's also very poignant to watch Jason look up toward heaven, thinking undoubtedly about his Dad, as Anne sings the word heaven in last line of the song.
cellist Yo Yo Ma rockin out. Incredible.
It would have been so much great fun to have been amongst any of these great & fantastic musicians. They were brilliant collaborating & 🎉🎉working as a team of stars they are!
I love that.
As others have mentioned, drummer Jason Bonham is the son of the late Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham. The bowler hat he and others were wearing was also in tribute to John, as he would occasionally wear one in concert onstage (you can look up images online of John Bonham wearing a bowler). Jason tells a story that Robert had invited him as his guest to attend the honors however, Jason had to turn him down because he was performing - he said it was the most difficult secret he'd ever had to keep. I hope you react to the band perform this from Madison Square Garden. Trust me, it is not overkill and will be worth it.
Robert Plant is Jason Bonham's godfather...
Everything you said, ditto.
Neil Peart of Rush will always and forever be my favorite percussionist, but John Bonham, with his flawless technique and unique sound, has a special place with me as well.
I've heard several of the Wilson sisters' covers of Zeppelin's songs, and Ann's voice and Nancy's guitar virtuosity are among the few that could do them justice.
I don’t think you can listen to the original song couple times and truly appreciate how good heart does this song
The drummer in the cover is the son of the original drummer of Led Zeppelin. The father passed away, so it's more than just a tribute to the band, it's also a tribute from son to father.
Perfection! A song from the past bringing together all people who treasure it!
I’ve watched this performance probably close to 100 times over the last decade. Still brings me to tears, and I’m not a led zeppelin fan or heart fan really, I just find this performance and song to be absolutely phenomenal
This is the best tribute ever.
From Ann and Nancy, to Jason, to the amazing Choir, there is nothing about this performance that isn't perfect.
And all the men were moved to tears, absolutely beautiful moment.
The great vocal talents of Ann Wilson and guitar playing of her sister Nancy. Together they are rock and roll powerhouse that is Heart. No other female singer could have pulled that off flawlessly like they did.
Yes, we love our Zeppelin, lol 😊 So epic, I hope you’ve listened to more! All of My Love was written by Robert Plant after his 5 year old son tragically died 😢 I also LOVE When the Levee Breaks, which doesn’t get so much love. It’s so good though!
I love that Robert Plant is emotional.
I get the chills and emotional EVERY SINGLE time I watch this ❤️ especially because The drummer Jason, his dad was the drummer for Led Zeppelin. He did his dad proud ❤️
I can't tell you how many times I've watched this performance, including all the reactions to it out there and it still brings tears to my eyes. The one you reviewed was an edited version, the longer complete 7-minute one is out there too with a better more pronounced edit of Nancy's incredible vocals.
This edit is 100% trash, and a crime against the masterpiece of the full performance!
I agree. The 7 minute version has the whole build up, which is really important to the song. The short version shouldn't even exist.
watched this performance hundreds of times... and it still can move this man to tears...
Same here!
When Ann opens up and let’s those pipes rip, that’s something else.
Yes! Supernatural and Magical! I have watched that performance about 20 times! It gives me chills each time. To see the original composers and performers enjoying it was so special! Thank you for sharing your reaction.
I grew up on Led Zeppelin. My parents were huge fans. This is a great cover! ❤
I cry every time I see this video. It is truly supernatural. I love love love it.
Heart did the best cover EVER of Stairway to Heaven! ❤
I’ve watched this video at least 50 times and every time I watch it I get emotional and tear up- it is so powerful and so perfect! I absolutely love watching the three surviving members of Led Zeppelin reactions- Jimmy Page created what is in my opinion, the number one Rock song of all time. Nancy and Anne Wilson perhaps the best cover of any original song! Just incredible.
Ann Wilson is 62 years old in this video. Think about that for a sec. Legends performing for legends in front of legends. whew.
Greatest rendition ever
Kennedy Center tributes are the best!
Another iconic performance: Aretha Franklin singing Natural Woman to composer of the song, Carol King.
I’m almost 63, so this was my youth. Heart has always been one of my absolute favorite bands and while I wasn’t a Led Zeppelin fan per se, this song is a beautiful, moving, classic. Heart doing this song was indeed magical. I’ve seen this before, but it still moves me. I cried all the way through. It’s cool seeing younger generations discover the amazing music I grew up with.
Ann and Nancy commented on how they were performing in front of Led Zeppelin AND the President. “No pressure” they said. They had also bumped into Robert, Jimmy and JPJ beforehand but couldn’t say why they were in town. You probably know the meaning behind the hats (Bonzo wore it).. Robert got tired of the song, but with Jason there, etc. it brought tears to his eyes.
That song could NOT have been better represented. Driving them to tears realizing someone finally KNOWS how to play the same way they felt has to be the most utmost forms of respect
This cover by Heart is one of the best tributes of all time
I absolutely LOVE this guy. God Bless, POLO 🙏
I remember watching this when it aired and being blown away. When that screen rose and revealed the choir...chills.
Also, Jack Black's intro of Led Zeppelin was hilarious :D
I had the privilege of going through my teens in the 70's. I am now 67 years old and this song has always been one of my favorites. Still brings chills and a lot of memories. You have only just begun a wonderful time of music and rock and roll. GOD Bless❤️🙏🇺🇸🕊️
This song just builds and builds. One of the most beautiful musical rides ever.
MUSIC UNITES THE WORLD!
If that doesn't give you the chills, it brought tears to Robert Plants eyes when Heart's Ann Wilson hit those notes at the end.
Love HEART❤ Ann Wilson just got better and better over time! What a God given blessing she is! ❤❤❤
Was never a huge Led Zeppelin fan, but knew many of their songs, but this version of stairway to heaven is amazing-
Thanks for the reaction. Glad you enjoyed it also.
Same.
It honestly just gave me chills and I’ve seen it a dozen times
Seeing Heart live was THE most captivating and greatest sounding show I've been to, to date. The audience couldn't get enough. And I've seen some HUGE names in rock music where the connection between the people and the music wasn't as apparent.
I love watching the Led Zep members loving it.
There are some classic songs you don’t touch because they are so iconic. This is one of them, but Ann Wilson and Heart are well respected and kill the hell out of a song. Not to mention having Jason Bonham there. Seeing the emotion from LZ is everything you need to know.
Seeing Yo-Yo Ma grooving to the song in the audience, you know you're doing something right. I can only imagine the electricity in the theater that night. What an amazing tribute.
I was 15 years old when Stairway to Heaven was released. The whole experience of this performance brings a tear to my eye for many reasons.
I could watch it every day and not get tired of it
That whole live performance was just totally outstanding and epic.
Her voice was perfect for this tribute. Whoever thought of Heart really has an ear.
Probably the best cover of any song, ever.
they did this justice very well done.
So so awesome to do this tribute to them while they are here to enjoy this! What a moment. The whole show the year this was done 2012 is AMAZING!! Go back and watch the whole show. They did Buddy Guy and Letterman also.
The guy at 05:42 grooving to the sound is Yo Yo Ma, possibly the premier classical cellist in the world today, and someone who is able to appreciate both the old and new masters of classical music.
Love Anne Wilson. Her voice is untouchable to me. Best female singer ever IMO.
Rock legends, playing for rock, gods and rock gods give rock legends, a standing ovation
Yes,,supernatural..Thanx for this..Drummer is the son of the original drummer, John Bonham...Diesd during their most popular era.
This is what I wanted you to react to since you listened to the original. I’m a 72 year old grandma, when my 70 year old brother and I get together we always watch this. Always get goosebumps. Love this!
This has me bawling my eyes out. This performance was over the top.
This is the greatest and best song in the world, Tribute.
The drummer is the son of John Bonum, the original drummer who passed
I really love how thoughtful and gentle you are in your reactions.
only Ann has the pipes to do this song justice
Her talent and their reactions had me in TEARS. This was INCREDIBLE.
I always watch the Kennedy Honors. This by far was the best performance I’ve ever seen performed there. Led Zepplin is my favorite band….I got the chills during this performance.
Aretha was a close second