I was in the choir for this performance. One of the best moments of my life. Some fun facts: * Jason Bonham being on drums was a surprise to EVERYONE. He had told Led Zeppelin that he had a prior commitment and couldn't make it to the ceremony, and Dave Grohl had been on drums for all the rehearsals, including the live dress rehearsal. * This broadcast version has footage from both the dress rehearsal and the final performance * Nancy Wilson is super nice in person * Stephen Colbert came up to me and some other choir members after the show to tell us we did a great job * We rehearsed every day for 2 or 3 weeks for this performance. * When only the small choir is shown, the full choir is still singing, just behind the curtains
Their drummer, John Bonham, died years ago. His son Jason is also a drummer. The story goes: when Zeppelin was notified that they were being honored at the Kennedy Center they contacted Jason to invite him to the awards show. Jason told them that he couldn't attend because he had a prior commitment. The rest of the band was sad that he wouldn't be able to attend. They had no idea that the prior commitment was that Heart had contacted Jason and asked him to stand in as drummer for the performance. That's why Robert stood up in shock when they introduced him at the beginning. He wasn't expecting to see him there, let alone drumming in honor of his late father. Jason even wore his dad's iconic hat for the performance. :)
Whoever did the arrangement for this cover, deserves a Grammy. I mean Ann killed it, but the way they layered in the strings, then the backup singers, then the horns and the choir....OMG, the song just kept getting bigger and bigger. Just amazing.
The reason Robert Plant teared up was because he was thinking of his best friend John Bonham and seeing his godson playing the same drum kit that his father played as Led Zeppelin's drummer. You need to know the Wilson sisters idolized Led Zeppelin growing up. Did you notice that Jason looked up to the sky as to ask his dad if he approved of the job he did.
It warms my heart to see young people (you!) today be so moved and touched by Led Zeppelin. I am 62 years old. When I was in High School back in the 70’s , Led Zeppelin meant the entire world to me. Everything. They still do. When John died we thought the world was ending. Jason was just a small boy then. But here we are, decades later, those 3 are still the rock gods of lore, and Jason is a grown man with all the drumming chops passed down from his father. Their show from 2012 with Jason drumming is just incredible.
Young lady you wasn't the only person to cry during this video. I am a 61 year old Army Veteran. My birth sign is Cancer. We feel this more strongly than most people. I hate being so sensitive. I'm my generation a man is supposed to be strong. Your not supposed to cry over things like this. Advice to you my young lady friend. You need not apologize for feeling things so deeply. The music touches you very deeply inside your soul. That in itself is a beautiful thing.
This song is very emotional when sung properly. Watching Robert's face as the song starts, you can see he was judging the performance. Jimmy Page was rocking it whatever the outcome. But when the curtains are lifted and the choir starts, Robert felt like the most accomplished man on Earth. It's no wonder he shed some tears. Don't worry my dear, your facial expressions and trembling in your voice tells us all about how you felt.
Very, very few artists could have ever pulled out a respectable version of Stairway, being one of rock's greatest compositions. Ann and Nancy Wilson murdered this cover in all the best ways possible, and in front of the remaining 3 members of Led Zeppelin at that.
Such an amazing performance, and a great reaction. Ann Wilson was asked in an interview what it was like to perform this in front of Led Zeppelin, and she replied "how do you read the Bible to Jesus?"
Watching Robert Plant shed tears. Ann Wilson didn't just sing the song, she understood the lyrics he wrote. She felt and lived them. Also, let's not overlook Nancy Wilson's beautiful guitar work. The opening riff is gorgeous.
Imagine having Led Zeppelin giving you a standing ovation after you do a cover of their song. It's like you've achieved everything in that moment. Awesome !
Plant went on the record not long after this performance saying when he found out they were covering STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN he cringed because he’s seen it ATTEMPTED by many other artists before and he thought they never did it right until this performance. So much so he went out of his way to tell Ann Wilson that she’s the FIRST one he’s seen who he thought did it justice….. HIGH PRAISE evident by his holding back the tears during the performance ❤❤❤❤
@@datubeda I did too but saw many people over the years commenting on how Led Zepplin hated it?? Anyways, its a great thing I think. Especially when the singers come up from the floor and start singing!!
Here are two things about this performance you may not know that will make you appreciate it even more. First Led Zeppelin was the band that inspired heart the most. They got their start as a Led Zeppelin cover band. Secondly when the choir popped up they were all wearing the🎉 same hat that Jason Bonham was wearing. That hat was a direct tribute to his father John Bonham who was the original Led Zeppelin drummer. When you watch it again keep those two things in mind you'll like it even more😊
Easily the best cover of a song ever. Robert and John Bonham (Bonzo) were best friends and Robert looked after Jason when his dad died. Those tears are for a long lost best friend and a sign of how proud Robert was of Jason that night. Also when Jason looks up as if to say “how was that Dad?” 😢
Robert was Jason's Godfather it was Robert that broke the tragic death to his mother and Jason Jason was wearing his fathers bowler hat and playing his dads drum kit the group didn't know that Jason would be there he told them unfortunately he had another gig that night then the show began the rest is eternal epic history {:- ) PAV UK
Robert plants 5 year old son died arpumd the time stairway came out amd he said he grew to hate the song until he heard this performance. I've met just by chance and he's the lovilest, warm human being.
I'm a 65-yr.-old guy who cries every time I watch this performance. Your description of all the beauty, love, and respect in the room captures it perfectly. Thanks for giving me another opportunity to cleanse my energy field.
indeed. there are a great many incredible performances at this event. so many over the years. and they always have the BEST musicians backing everyone up.
Such a fitting tribute. They put the "Heart" spin on it while keeping it close to the original, all the way down to the guitar solo. And seeing Jadon Bonham rocking the hat like dad and beating those skins was the cherry on top. Another great reaction.
ICONIC reaction girl.... The ONLY thing that came remotely close to Heart’s performance was YOUR reaction.... This is why we fall in love with these reactions. You are providing a description of how we felt when WE first experienced it. Bless you and continue conveying your soul with us.
A week before this first aired on PBS, I saw Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience perform in Reno, NV as a tribute to his father. A giant screen played behind him, showing old home movies of him as a young kid running around a swimming pool, at what appeared to be a BBQ.......with all of the original Led Zeppelin in their prime.
This old man shed a tear also. One of the best live productions to date. You must watch the entire tribute. Jack Black does a touching retrospect and funny opening. Great reaction. Fully Agree with your take on it
I'm not ashamed to say this performance has the same effect on me every single time I see it. It's also important to note that the Wilson sisters as did many, adored led Zepplin and tried to emulate their style.
My dad passed away on 1/5/24. Since then I have been listening to Stairway to Heaven a lot and this version is breathtaking. Seeing Jason Bonham play his dad’s drums while wearing his dad’s hat gets me emotional. Beautiful work by Heart.
Led Zeppelin has over the years always been one of my favorite bands, as well as Heart. The sisters from the very beginning have been simply magical in their renditions and stage performances. I truly love your ENTIRE reaction to this song. I agree 100% with everything you have said in your comments. I, too, am left in tears whenever I revisit this iconic song, which itself a Led Zeppelin masterpiece. Lastly, I would like to add that the reaction of the original members of LZ is absolutely priceless...genuine tears... They could cry with joy.
The other musicians shown at the end of the video (Lenny Kravitz, Jack Black, etc.) each did covers of Led Zeppelin songs at this tribute. I think "Stairway To Heaven" was the last song of the concert honoring Led Zeppelin.
Every time they show the band.. I just tear up so quickly because you can see it in their faces - the nostalgia, the culture, the essence, and the good memories all at once. But it is bittersweet also because it was so long ago when they reigned the rock world. And here they are being honored with a perfect cover song performance. It also reminds everyone of LZ's genius, soul-moving music that new generations still listen to today. Just a glorious moment.
Heart (Ann and Nancy at least) have always been huge Led Zeppelin fans and they have several other Led Zeppelin covers on TH-cam. My favorite is their cover of "Battle Of Evermore" but "Going To California" is a close second.
I cry every time I watch this performance! Love that you felt that emotion as well! For Led Zeppelin’s Celebration Day performance 20 million people entered a lottery for 20,000 tickets! Legendary for a reason!! This was the finale of the Kennedy Center Honors performance and you need to watch the complete show! Epic!!
I've been looking forward to this since your first reaction to Heart. I knew you'd fall in love with this magnificent performance. There's so much going on here, from Jason Bonham being on drums, to the remaining members being honored and so emotionally invested, to the choirs, to all the luminaries in the audience, and finally, to the brilliance of Anne's vocals. It's one of my top 3 live performances. I think I'll go back and watch your reaction again, because it's so beautiful to see how much joy it brings you. ❤
Also Aileen if you’d like to see the band playing at this age (although this was five yrs later) with Jason on drums, check out The Celebration Day concert from the O2 Arena in 2007, quite simply one of the greatest gigs you’ll ever see, I know you’ve reacted to Kashmir before but the performance of said song at this concert is ICONIC, Jason absolutely kills it on drums, would love to see you react to that, or any other song from that concert, Black Dog, Rock and Roll and No Quarter are my faves from the concert. Again such a beautiful reaction to this performance ❤️❤️
Aileen, I loved you before but seeing your reaction to this brought tears to my eyes and I love you even more. To see a young soul appreciate and love the music I grew up loving and feeling the music is a beautiful thing
I Absolutely LOVE Heart's Cover of this song 💖 I have been Blessed to get to See Heart in concert 3 times now and each time, I was Taken by My Daughters as a Gift 💝 I would Highly Recommend you also Listen to Heart's Cover of "You're The Voice" WOW! Brings ME to Tears Every Time I Hear It! ~Namaste~ GrammyMary
Truly a phenomenal honoring tribute to the 3 living legends and the one legend no longer with us. And to have the son of that legend who has passed, play the drums in honor of his father, that was so inspiring to me, the bowler hats in honor of John Bonham as well, it's the details that show the true love that was on display during this performance, and everyone could see and feel it. Also many big names in that crowd, but Yo-Yo-Ma rocking out to the song never fails to put a smile on my face :)
I've watched this video of that performance a million times and I cry every time. Ann is an amazing singer and Nancy is an amazing guitarist. Jason killing it on drums. Such an amazing performance.
Hello Aileen, When I saw your video (Stariway to heaven, Kennedy Center Honors), it was clear to me: I will never forget your smile, your joy and your emotions 🌷.I am an "old rocker" from Germany. So old that I was allowed to see Led Zeppelin "live" in Germany in the 70s. The boys were very close to me!!! Jimmy Page played a guitar solo with a violin bow and John Bonham played a drum solo with his hands, without sticks. Craziness! When I say "I love you" to you today, my motivation is your smile and your musical empathy. You are a very nice and great woman. Your video will stay in my memories forever. Warm greetings from Germany, Ingolf aca AROCC 😘🥰😘
Having growing up with this song in the 70’s it has so much meaning to me and brings tears to my eyes. But this performance always makes me emotional when I watch it! ❤️❤️
The Kennedy Center Honors provide recognition to living individuals who throughout their lifetimes have made significant contributions to American culture. Every year it is in December. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has selected the 46th Honorees for lifetime artistic achievements: actor and comedian Billy Crystal; acclaimed soprano Renée Fleming; British singer-songwriter producer, and member of the Bee Gees, Barry Gibb; rapper, singer, and actress Queen Latifah; and singer Dionne Warwick.
The Wilson Sisters also had a sideproject at one point, called The Lovemongers, who did an amazing cover of Led Zep's "The Battle Of Evermore" that was also on the OST for the movie Singles (which had a bunch of Seattle/Grunge acts on it) Loved watching Robert here, going from kinda serious "how is this going to go?" to smiles and tears - no one quite covers Led Zep like Ann and Nancy do!
Love your reaction Aileen. I have watched this video DOZEN of times. If I am having a down / bad day I will watch this video because it is so magnificent and lifts my heart. It is the one video where I will smile and cry at the same time. When you cried, I cried. I love the reaction of the remaining members of Led Zeppelin. As you said, they tried to remain stoic, but you could see the emotion coursing through them. Amazing, Fantastic, Magnificent, Magic, Wonderful, Enduring, what other superlative can I use. Oh well, time to get back to marking reflective journals from my students. Thank you the brain break.
They absolutely did it justice. I got to see Led Zeppelin in concert in the 70's. Just amazing. And when the remaining members give you a standing 'O'... yeah, you've done something. Oh, and I love your reaction. The music touches everyone that listens...
Aileen you really need to do the original studio version to get the full impact of this song, quite literally the greatest song ever written. Beautiful reaction to an amazing performance, you know you’ve done a good job when you’re bringing the writer to tears, Robert, Jimmy and John Paul Jones were blown away ❤️❤️❤️
@@71ernz you're correct there has been many Stairway reactions lately and I thought she did the one with the lyrics and the graphic to the original version.. sometimes I can't keep them all straight.
I loooove your reaction videos. Alot of people listen to music but you feel it. I love that! And when she hits that note, it gets me every time. Damn allergies🥹
I only take the time to tell this story on either my favorite reactors, or on reactors that do this song, and it truly moves them, and you tick both those boxes for me, enjoy......................... About 2 years ago, after seeing this performance for the first time, I stumbled on an interview given by Ann in the weeks following this performance. She said she was very humbled by all the compliments her and Nancy received, but was only really worried about what the band, especially Robert, thought. At a dinner following the event, Robert approached her table, said hello to everyone and then Ann. He paused for a moment, kind of staring off into space, then said, I've never liked that song over the years. Ann literally started to tear up, Robert looked down realizing the misunderstanding of his words and said, no no dear, I meant I've always thought it dreadful because It's been covered so many times over the years, and no artist has ever done the song justice....until tonight. He took her hand and kissed it, and said, Bravo my dear, and walked off. Ann said she knew right then she could die a happy women and have no regrets.
This is highly embellished. Ann didn't cry, and Robert didn't kiss her hand. He told her he had grown to hate the song because it was always butchered, "but tonight I liked it. Thank you". That was it -- no crying or hand kissing or other drama. Also Jimmy sought out Nancy and complimented her acoustic playing and told her that intro is one of the most difficult passages to play correctly, especially all alone and under pressure like she was. The Zep guys were very complimentary but no need to embellish it.
@@billsimpson6136 .....Oh, I guess you were there???..... Simpson party, your table is ready, do you mind sitting next to Ann and Nancy Wilson's table, sorry it's all we have available. Listen ass hat, I have no idea exactly what was said, if anyone cried, or if anyone's hand was kissed, take it up with Ann!! The interview with Ann was at a radio station, I wanna say Buffalo or maybe Cleveland, and Nancy was not with her, I don't remember what she was promoting, I think it was still Heart's 2012 album "Fanatic", because this interview took place in 2013, a couple months after her performance at the Kennedy Center which was Dec. of 2012. This was in print form in a music industry type publication, where they had printed the transcript of the interview. What I wrote was pretty much WORD FOR WORD what Ann said to the radio DJ interviewing her!! Maybe she left a few parts out after that, maybe she embellished it the first time she told it at the radio station, I have no fucking clue dude, but that's what the lady said, or at least what the transcript said she said. Either way she told it, or whatever the exact version of the story is, that apparently is a very big deal for you, what I wrote above, DOES NOT change the crux of the story what soever.....Ann was worried about what Robert thought about her performance, there was a mixup for a quick second and Ann thought he didn't care for it, then he explained what he meant, and complimented her on a job well done, which made Ann very happy, End of story, don't be that douche nozzle, it's not like I'm giving out medical advice or tips on how to fill out your taxes, it's simply an anecdote I read from a beloved music artist. So how bout you ask me next time something like, "hey, where did you hear that from, cause I heard it happed differently", instead of coming at me like some bitch from mean girls just looking to start drama!!
@@billsimpson6136....Yes, I'm sure you were, who did you sit next to at the dinner table, Ann or Nancy? Or did ya go stag that night and get to be a big piece of beef in a Heart sandwich?
Girl, I got emotional along with you too, when I watched your video... this is because I'm 63 years old and Led Zepplin have always been my favorite band... I enjoyed them and continue to do so even today today... a big blessing for your comments, and for you personally. Thanks.
I love watching your reactions of music that I have known as timeless 💝 I grew up in Seattle in the 80's-90's,as a musician I have been blessed with meeting and experiencing even some of the actual concerts that you have reacted to 💝...Thank You for seeing and letting me re-live the experience all over again within your reactions...and You Shine and are Beautiful Sweetheart!🔥💞✨💝😘🌹
God, every time this video is recommended, I have to stop and watch. This may be one of the best cover songs I've EVER heard. Heart is out of this world talented.
Your reaction "Experience" to this video is defined as HONOR. Which is emotional when witnessed. One day, that experience will be yours, towards you...when that special man commits to you in HONOR❤️🙏❤️
Every time I watch this it brings tears!!! I was a teen back then and now I'm 60 and it still gets to me!! I'm so glad the younger generation is loving the old rock groups. I will be driving one of my grandkids in my 74-bronco playing the classic rock and they'll say who's this Papa Taz, I'll say this was when rock and roll was rock and roll!!!😁😁
Heart and Led Zeppelin toured together a few times in the 1970s, so the members of the two bands know each other well. Reportedly, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant said Ann and Nancy Wilson partied *hard* . 😁 The entire Kennedy Center Honors program is worth watching. Jack Black served as master of ceremonies, and a bunch of other bands showed up to play Zeppelin songs. The Kennedy Center also honored David Letterman, and the following Monday, Letterman had the remaining members of the band on his Late Night show. That's worth watching, too, just to see the reaction of Paul Shaffer and the Late Night band when the Hammers of the Gods walked out on stage and took their seats. 😎
Heart and Led Zeppelin never toured together. John Paul Jones did produce one of Heart's albums though. Ann and Nance have never toured with Robert, Jimmy, John Paul individually or together as Zep.
Heart did tour with Jason Led Zeppelin Experience following this event. Maybe a little bit prior, all I know is they had another singer on line but Jason requested that he perform with Heart. Heart did this with minimal practice for Anne was fighting the flu.
You're right on the mark little sister. In great music always we'll do that to the right people at the right time. When you get as emotional as you do at some of these, it just proves how good the music is.
You're an incredible person, Aileen! Clearly, you have a lot of passion, wisdom, and appreciation of great music, and being deeply 'moved' by the music is always icing on the cake! Thanks for your authentic and expressive music reactions.
I'll be darned if I didn't get emotional watching it again, and it's about the 5th time I've watched it. Phenomenal. Bonzo's son, the choir and the orchestra made it a grand slam.
This is one of the best , more pure , real reactions I’ve ever watched. If this song doesn’t stir up emotion in you , you aren’t human. Beautiful song and a fantastic reaction. Don’t worry I was crying along with you! Ever damned time !! 6’2 250 of sobbing mess. Thank you for an amazing reaction. ❤
A beautiful reaction, to an amazing rendition. Nancy Wilson did a phenomenal performance. The band and choir was fantastic surprise. Great video, keep it up 👍
Legends honoring legends in a room full of legends.
I was in the choir for this performance. One of the best moments of my life. Some fun facts:
* Jason Bonham being on drums was a surprise to EVERYONE. He had told Led Zeppelin that he had a prior commitment and couldn't make it to the ceremony, and Dave Grohl had been on drums for all the rehearsals, including the live dress rehearsal.
* This broadcast version has footage from both the dress rehearsal and the final performance
* Nancy Wilson is super nice in person
* Stephen Colbert came up to me and some other choir members after the show to tell us we did a great job
* We rehearsed every day for 2 or 3 weeks for this performance.
* When only the small choir is shown, the full choir is still singing, just behind the curtains
That must have been incredible to be a part of something that epic.
Thank you as you are forever in one of the most beautiful live covers of any song. When the choir started I cried.
@@dwleroy I'll second that. It was nothing short of sensational
Great job to all of you who played a part. I was fortunate enough to have seen the original televised broadcast.
Thank you for sharing!!! The magic shines through in this performance.
Their drummer, John Bonham, died years ago. His son Jason is also a drummer. The story goes: when Zeppelin was notified that they were being honored at the Kennedy Center they contacted Jason to invite him to the awards show. Jason told them that he couldn't attend because he had a prior commitment. The rest of the band was sad that he wouldn't be able to attend. They had no idea that the prior commitment was that Heart had contacted Jason and asked him to stand in as drummer for the performance. That's why Robert stood up in shock when they introduced him at the beginning. He wasn't expecting to see him there, let alone drumming in honor of his late father. Jason even wore his dad's iconic hat for the performance. :)
That's amazing. I knew the drummer was Johns son but I had no idea the story behind was so poignant. Happy tear... 🤘🤘
Don’t forget, he’s also playing on his dad’s drum set here as well
@@benkyle76 I didn't know that!
It was Robert plant who is Jason's godfather that invited Jason to sit with the band and Jason told plant that he couldn't make it
Kinda looks like Jason had a “gotcha” moment with Robert. Certainly surprised
Whoever did the arrangement for this cover, deserves a Grammy. I mean Ann killed it, but the way they layered in the strings, then the backup singers, then the horns and the choir....OMG, the song just kept getting bigger and bigger. Just amazing.
41 years old… lover of all music. Easily one of the most beautiful renditions EVER.
You and I both
The fact that you could still hear Ann‘s voice so distinctly with an entire choir singing behind her is iconic
The reason Robert Plant teared up was because he was thinking of his best friend John Bonham and seeing his godson playing the same drum kit that his father played as Led Zeppelin's drummer. You need to know the Wilson sisters idolized Led Zeppelin growing up. Did you notice that Jason looked up to the sky as to ask his dad if he approved of the job he did.
It warms my heart to see young people (you!) today be so moved and touched by Led Zeppelin.
I am 62 years old. When I was in High School back in the 70’s , Led Zeppelin meant the entire world to me. Everything.
They still do.
When John died we thought the world was ending. Jason was just a small boy then.
But here we are, decades later, those 3 are still the rock gods of lore, and Jason is a grown man with all the drumming chops passed down from his father.
Their show from 2012 with Jason drumming is just incredible.
The greatest cover of all time. Period end of sentence
the Wilson sisters are nothing short of amazing
Yep, they're members of the top tier of greats, and such likeable persons off stage too.
I'm a 57 year old biker. I cry every time I see this reaction video. Outstanding reaction you beautiful soul!
Young lady you wasn't the only person to cry during this video. I am a 61 year old Army Veteran. My birth sign is Cancer. We feel this more strongly than most people. I hate being so sensitive. I'm my generation a man is supposed to be strong. Your not supposed to cry over things like this. Advice to you my young lady friend. You need not apologize for feeling things so deeply. The music touches you very deeply inside your soul. That in itself is a beautiful thing.
Amen brother!
@@walterbuckhannon3947 I’m a Cancer too, and yep…😭
This song is very emotional when sung properly. Watching Robert's face as the song starts, you can see he was judging the performance. Jimmy Page was rocking it whatever the outcome. But when the curtains are lifted and the choir starts, Robert felt like the most accomplished man on Earth. It's no wonder he shed some tears. Don't worry my dear, your facial expressions and trembling in your voice tells us all about how you felt.
Stairway to Heaven is the best rock song EVER !
Very, very few artists could have ever pulled out a respectable version of Stairway, being one of rock's greatest compositions. Ann and Nancy Wilson murdered this cover in all the best ways possible, and in front of the remaining 3 members of Led Zeppelin at that.
That guitarist nailed the solo , Jimmy Page was ecstatic over it
Such an amazing performance, and a great reaction. Ann Wilson was asked in an interview what it was like to perform this in front of Led Zeppelin, and she replied "how do you read the Bible to Jesus?"
Very, very carefully...
And with amazing emotion...@@gfimadcat
Honestly
Priceless answer by Ann Wilson. Thank you for bringing that up.. love your reaction.
How do you read the Bible to Jesus, indeed🙏🏽
Watching Robert Plant shed tears. Ann Wilson didn't just sing the song, she understood the lyrics he wrote. She felt and lived them.
Also, let's not overlook Nancy Wilson's beautiful guitar work. The opening riff is gorgeous.
I'm not sure he even understands the lyrics he wrote
and jason bonham playing the drums, the essence of LZ was together once again
Robert said, that he got so emotional, because he was thinking of his best friend John Bonham, seeing his son behind his fathers drum kit.
Robert was crying cause his God Son showed up and came through!
No invisible sky daddy there tho. The memories of his friend brought him to tears.@@CjSalch
Imagine having Led Zeppelin giving you a standing ovation after you do a cover of their song. It's like you've achieved everything in that moment. Awesome !
I've listened to Heart do this song about 30 or 40 times, and each time it brings tears to eyes ,but tears of joy ❤
I loved how you teared up every time you saw Robert's face!
Plant went on the record not long after this performance saying when he found out they were covering STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN he cringed because he’s seen it ATTEMPTED by many other artists before and he thought they never did it right until this performance. So much so he went out of his way to tell Ann Wilson that she’s the FIRST one he’s seen who he thought did it justice….. HIGH PRAISE evident by his holding back the tears during the performance ❤❤❤❤
Heart would never do that to Zeppelin, just listen to their version of Rock & Roll live .
That guitarist nailed the solo , you can see it on Jimmy's face .
Thanks for that. I always wondered how they felt about it.
@@watcher63034 I thought their faces said it all ;)
@@datubeda I did too but saw many people over the years commenting on how Led Zepplin hated it?? Anyways, its a great thing I think. Especially when the singers come up from the floor and start singing!!
Here are two things about this performance you may not know that will make you appreciate it even more. First Led Zeppelin was the band that inspired heart the most. They got their start as a Led Zeppelin cover band. Secondly when the choir popped up they were all wearing the🎉 same hat that Jason Bonham was wearing. That hat was a direct tribute to his father John Bonham who was the original Led Zeppelin drummer. When you watch it again keep those two things in mind you'll like it even more😊
Yep, you couldn't miss John's iconic bowler.
Easily the best cover of a song ever.
Robert and John Bonham (Bonzo) were best friends and Robert looked after Jason when his dad died.
Those tears are for a long lost best friend and a sign of how proud Robert was of Jason that night.
Also when Jason looks up as if to say “how was that Dad?” 😢
Robert was Jason's Godfather
it was Robert that broke the tragic death to his mother and Jason
Jason was wearing his fathers bowler hat
and playing his dads drum kit
the group didn't know that Jason would be there
he told them unfortunately he had another gig that night
then the show began
the rest is eternal epic history
{:- ) PAV UK
So THATS who Bonzo is
Robert plants 5 year old son died arpumd the time stairway came out amd he said he grew to hate the song until he heard this performance. I've met just by chance and he's the lovilest, warm human being.
And don't forget she is 62 performing this.... There is no words to say...
I'm a 65-yr.-old guy who cries every time I watch this performance. Your description of all the beauty, love, and respect in the room captures it perfectly. Thanks for giving me another opportunity to cleanse my energy field.
Ann Wilson is one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time. Even at 62 here, she still sounded so powerful.
Aileen, you should REALLY watch the FULL VERSION of this!!!! Then watch the full tribute to Zep at the Kennedy Center Honors 2112!!!!
Stairway to Heaven is not an easy song to perform. HEART NAILED IT!!!
This song is a religious experience. Have seen this countless times and shed tears every. single. time. Masterpiece 🔥
Me too... I'm a grown ass man and I cry every time 😂 . . . 😭
Amen brothers..... there with you!
This performance never fails to bring me to tears. Seeing the members of Led Zep being so thoroughly blown away, it just gets me right where I live.
The Kennedy Center Honors have some great performances. This is by far my favorite cover/tribute tune.
indeed. there are a great many incredible performances at this event. so many over the years. and they always have the BEST musicians backing everyone up.
One of the reasons that I love your reactions, is that they are so genuine. Your emotions make us emotional and make us feel the music even more.
Such a fitting tribute. They put the "Heart" spin on it while keeping it close to the original, all the way down to the guitar solo. And seeing Jadon Bonham rocking the hat like dad and beating those skins was the cherry on top. Another great reaction.
ICONIC reaction girl.... The ONLY thing that came remotely close to Heart’s performance was YOUR reaction.... This is why we fall in love with these reactions. You are providing a description of how we felt when WE first experienced it. Bless you and continue conveying your soul with us.
@AileenSenpai_Are you on Patreon? I’d like to contribute to your cause. Really appreciate your reactions.
When Jimmy, John, and Robert gave the performance a standing ovation, that said it all.
There is no better performance!!!
A week before this first aired on PBS, I saw Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience perform in Reno, NV as a tribute to his father. A giant screen played behind him, showing old home movies of him as a young kid running around a swimming pool, at what appeared to be a BBQ.......with all of the original Led Zeppelin in their prime.
It actually aired on CBS, not PBS.
This old man shed a tear also. One of the best live productions to date. You must watch the entire tribute. Jack Black does a touching retrospect and funny opening. Great reaction. Fully Agree with your take on it
Add this old man too !
I'm not ashamed to say this performance has the same effect on me every single time I see it. It's also important to note that the Wilson sisters as did many, adored led Zepplin and tried to emulate their style.
I’ve seen it 100 times and still feel the same when I watch it!👍👍
Ann was 62 at the time of this performance. Masterpiece tribute
I’m so pleased to see how this music still moves the younger generation. I cried too.
My dad passed away on 1/5/24. Since then I have been listening to Stairway to Heaven a lot and this version is breathtaking. Seeing Jason Bonham play his dad’s drums while wearing his dad’s hat gets me emotional. Beautiful work by Heart.
This is one of my favourite performances of any song ever. The whole thing is just sensational from start to finish
Led Zeppelin has over the years always been one of my favorite bands, as well as Heart. The sisters from the very beginning have been simply magical in their renditions and stage performances.
I truly love your ENTIRE reaction to this song. I agree 100% with everything you have said in your comments. I, too, am left in tears whenever I revisit this iconic song, which itself a Led Zeppelin masterpiece. Lastly, I would like to add that the reaction of the original members of LZ is absolutely priceless...genuine tears... They could cry with joy.
Heart undetstood the assignment ❤❤
The other musicians shown at the end of the video (Lenny Kravitz, Jack Black, etc.) each did covers of Led Zeppelin songs at this tribute. I think "Stairway To Heaven" was the last song of the concert honoring Led Zeppelin.
Hands down one of the best reactions I’ve ever seen. You brought me to tears
Every time they show the band.. I just tear up so quickly because you can see it in their faces - the nostalgia, the culture, the essence, and the good memories all at once. But it is bittersweet also because it was so long ago when they reigned the rock world. And here they are being honored with a perfect cover song performance. It also reminds everyone of LZ's genius, soul-moving music that new generations still listen to today. Just a glorious moment.
No words just ❤️❤️❤️❤️. I'm 60 and still get 2 my. Thank you so much. 💯🇮🇹🇧🇪🇪🇺
Heart (Ann and Nancy at least) have always been huge Led Zeppelin fans and they have several other Led Zeppelin covers on TH-cam. My favorite is their cover of "Battle Of Evermore" but "Going To California" is a close second.
Finally getting to see Heart in July this year ❤
Crazy and F'ing amazing rendition. This song will be alive far after most of us
I cry every time I watch this performance! Love that you felt that emotion as well! For Led Zeppelin’s Celebration Day performance 20 million people entered a lottery for 20,000 tickets! Legendary for a reason!! This was the finale of the Kennedy Center Honors performance and you need to watch the complete show! Epic!!
Standing ovation from Plant and Page. Life goal achieved. Incredible performance
wow,your reaction exemplified what we felt through this. Thanks
I've been looking forward to this since your first reaction to Heart. I knew you'd fall in love with this magnificent performance.
There's so much going on here, from Jason Bonham being on drums, to the remaining members being honored and so emotionally invested, to the choirs, to all the luminaries in the audience, and finally, to the brilliance of Anne's vocals.
It's one of my top 3 live performances.
I think I'll go back and watch your reaction again, because it's so beautiful to see how much joy it brings you. ❤
❤❤❤❤❤
Also Aileen if you’d like to see the band playing at this age (although this was five yrs later) with Jason on drums, check out The Celebration Day concert from the O2 Arena in 2007, quite simply one of the greatest gigs you’ll ever see, I know you’ve reacted to Kashmir before but the performance of said song at this concert is ICONIC, Jason absolutely kills it on drums, would love to see you react to that, or any other song from that concert, Black Dog, Rock and Roll and No Quarter are my faves from the concert. Again such a beautiful reaction to this performance ❤️❤️
I second this ❤
OMG yes, that performance is incredible! It’s definitely a “must see”!
Hell yes, Celebration Day version of Kashmir is absolutely mind-poppingly insane.
This is a great tribute, and the Wilson sisters know how to rock.
Buzzing 🇬🇧👍🎵🎵🎶🎶🎵🎶🎵
I love your reaction 😭😭 I'm not crying, you are!😭
Aileen, I loved you before but seeing your reaction to this brought tears to my eyes and I love you even more. To see a young soul appreciate and love the music I grew up loving and feeling the music is a beautiful thing
I Absolutely LOVE Heart's Cover of this song 💖 I have been Blessed to get to See Heart in concert 3 times now and each time, I was Taken by My Daughters as a Gift 💝 I would Highly Recommend you also Listen to Heart's Cover of "You're The Voice" WOW! Brings ME to Tears Every Time I Hear It! ~Namaste~ GrammyMary
Truly a phenomenal honoring tribute to the 3 living legends and the one legend no longer with us.
And to have the son of that legend who has passed, play the drums in honor of his father, that was so inspiring to me, the bowler hats in honor of John Bonham as well, it's the details that show the true love that was on display during this performance, and everyone could see and feel it.
Also many big names in that crowd, but Yo-Yo-Ma rocking out to the song never fails to put a smile on my face :)
Awesome. Aileen I've never seen you cry so much. The boys loved it
I've watched this video of that performance a million times and I cry every time. Ann is an amazing singer and Nancy is an amazing guitarist. Jason killing it on drums. Such an amazing performance.
Hello Aileen,
When I saw your video (Stariway to heaven, Kennedy Center Honors), it was clear to me: I will never forget your smile, your joy and your emotions 🌷.I am an "old rocker" from Germany. So old that I was allowed to see Led Zeppelin "live" in Germany in the 70s. The boys were very close to me!!! Jimmy Page played a guitar solo with a violin bow and John Bonham played a drum solo with his hands, without sticks. Craziness!
When I say "I love you" to you today, my motivation is your smile and your musical empathy. You are a very nice and great woman. Your video will stay in my memories forever. Warm greetings from Germany, Ingolf aca AROCC 😘🥰😘
Having growing up with this song in the 70’s it has so much meaning to me and brings tears to my eyes. But this performance always makes me emotional when I watch it! ❤️❤️
The Kennedy Center Honors provide recognition to living individuals who throughout their lifetimes have made significant contributions to American culture. Every year it is in December.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has selected the 46th Honorees for lifetime artistic achievements: actor and comedian Billy Crystal; acclaimed soprano Renée Fleming; British singer-songwriter producer, and member of the Bee Gees, Barry Gibb; rapper, singer, and actress Queen Latifah; and singer Dionne Warwick.
The Wilson Sisters also had a sideproject at one point, called The Lovemongers, who did an amazing cover of Led Zep's "The Battle Of Evermore" that was also on the OST for the movie Singles (which had a bunch of Seattle/Grunge acts on it)
Loved watching Robert here, going from kinda serious "how is this going to go?" to smiles and tears - no one quite covers Led Zep like Ann and Nancy do!
The perfect singer to cover this iconic song. She is one of the greatest of all time, a true vocal master.
Love your reaction Aileen. I have watched this video DOZEN of times. If I am having a down / bad day I will watch this video because it is so magnificent and lifts my heart. It is the one video where I will smile and cry at the same time. When you cried, I cried. I love the reaction of the remaining members of Led Zeppelin. As you said, they tried to remain stoic, but you could see the emotion coursing through them. Amazing, Fantastic, Magnificent, Magic, Wonderful, Enduring, what other superlative can I use. Oh well, time to get back to marking reflective journals from my students. Thank you the brain break.
They absolutely did it justice. I got to see Led Zeppelin in concert in the 70's. Just amazing. And when the remaining members give you a standing 'O'... yeah, you've done something. Oh, and I love your reaction. The music touches everyone that listens...
Aileen you really need to do the original studio version to get the full impact of this song, quite literally the greatest song ever written. Beautiful reaction to an amazing performance, you know you’ve done a good job when you’re bringing the writer to tears, Robert, Jimmy and John Paul Jones were blown away ❤️❤️❤️
She has
@@stevenseul361 she’s done the live version not the studio version
@@71ernz you're correct there has been many Stairway reactions lately and I thought she did the one with the lyrics and the graphic to the original version.. sometimes I can't keep them all straight.
I loooove your reaction videos. Alot of people listen to music but you feel it. I love that! And when she hits that note, it gets me every time. Damn allergies🥹
I only take the time to tell this story on either my favorite reactors, or on reactors that do this song, and it truly moves them, and you tick both those boxes for me, enjoy.........................
About 2 years ago, after seeing this performance for the first time, I stumbled on an interview given by Ann in the weeks following this performance. She said she was very humbled by all the compliments her and Nancy received, but was only really worried about what the band, especially Robert, thought. At a dinner following the event, Robert approached her table, said hello to everyone and then Ann. He paused for a moment, kind of staring off into space, then said, I've never liked that song over the years. Ann literally started to tear up, Robert looked down realizing the misunderstanding of his words and said, no no dear, I meant I've always thought it dreadful because It's been covered so many times over the years, and no artist has ever done the song justice....until tonight. He took her hand and kissed it, and said, Bravo my dear, and walked off. Ann said she knew right then she could die a happy women and have no regrets.
This is highly embellished. Ann didn't cry, and Robert didn't kiss her hand. He told her he had grown to hate the song because it was always butchered, "but tonight I liked it. Thank you". That was it -- no crying or hand kissing or other drama. Also Jimmy sought out Nancy and complimented her acoustic playing and told her that intro is one of the most difficult passages to play correctly, especially all alone and under pressure like she was. The Zep guys were very complimentary but no need to embellish it.
@@billsimpson6136 .....Oh, I guess you were there???..... Simpson party, your table is ready, do you mind sitting next to Ann and Nancy Wilson's table, sorry it's all we have available.
Listen ass hat, I have no idea exactly what was said, if anyone cried, or if anyone's hand was kissed, take it up with Ann!! The interview with Ann was at a radio station, I wanna say Buffalo or maybe Cleveland, and Nancy was not with her, I don't remember what she was promoting, I think it was still Heart's 2012 album "Fanatic", because this interview took place in 2013, a couple months after her performance at the Kennedy Center which was Dec. of 2012. This was in print form in a music industry type publication, where they had printed the transcript of the interview. What I wrote was pretty much WORD FOR WORD what Ann said to the radio DJ interviewing her!! Maybe she left a few parts out after that, maybe she embellished it the first time she told it at the radio station, I have no fucking clue dude, but that's what the lady said, or at least what the transcript said she said.
Either way she told it, or whatever the exact version of the story is, that apparently is a very big deal for you, what I wrote above, DOES NOT change the crux of the story what soever.....Ann was worried about what Robert thought about her performance, there was a mixup for a quick second and Ann thought he didn't care for it, then he explained what he meant, and complimented her on a job well done, which made Ann very happy, End of story, don't be that douche nozzle, it's not like I'm giving out medical advice or tips on how to fill out your taxes, it's simply an anecdote I read from a beloved music artist. So how bout you ask me next time something like, "hey, where did you hear that from, cause I heard it happed differently", instead of coming at me like some bitch from mean girls just looking to start drama!!
@@sunshynff Actually yes I was.
@@billsimpson6136....Yes, I'm sure you were, who did you sit next to at the dinner table, Ann or Nancy? Or did ya go stag that night and get to be a big piece of beef in a Heart sandwich?
No one covers Zeppelin as well as Heart. I've seen countless reactions to this, but this is my favorite reactions.
Perfect reaction to one of the most perfect songs ever. ❤
Girl, I got emotional along with you too, when I watched your video... this is because I'm 63 years old and Led Zepplin have always been my favorite band... I enjoyed them and continue to do so even today today... a big blessing for your comments, and for you personally. Thanks.
I love watching your reactions of music that I have known as timeless 💝 I grew up in Seattle in the 80's-90's,as a musician I have been blessed with meeting and experiencing even some of the actual concerts that you have reacted to 💝...Thank You for seeing and letting me re-live the experience all over again within your reactions...and
You Shine and are Beautiful Sweetheart!🔥💞✨💝😘🌹
God, every time this video is recommended, I have to stop and watch. This may be one of the best cover songs I've EVER heard. Heart is out of this world talented.
Your reaction "Experience" to this video is defined as HONOR. Which is emotional when witnessed. One day, that experience will be yours, towards you...when that special man commits to you in HONOR❤️🙏❤️
Every time I watch this it brings tears!!! I was a teen back then and now I'm 60 and it still gets to me!! I'm so glad the younger generation is loving the old rock groups. I will be driving one of my grandkids in my 74-bronco playing the classic rock and they'll say who's this Papa Taz, I'll say this was when rock and roll was rock and roll!!!😁😁
Such an epic performance ❤😊
The most beautiful reaction to this performance I have ever seen! I love your tears almost as much as this song!
Tremendous love shown to Led Zeppelin ❤ 🤘🎸🎵
Heart and Led Zeppelin toured together a few times in the 1970s, so the members of the two bands know each other well.
Reportedly, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant said Ann and Nancy Wilson partied *hard* . 😁
The entire Kennedy Center Honors program is worth watching.
Jack Black served as master of ceremonies, and a bunch of other bands showed up to play Zeppelin songs.
The Kennedy Center also honored David Letterman, and the following Monday, Letterman had the remaining members of the band on his Late Night show.
That's worth watching, too, just to see the reaction of Paul Shaffer and the Late Night band when the Hammers of the Gods walked out on stage and took their seats. 😎
Heart and Led Zeppelin never toured together. John Paul Jones did produce one of Heart's albums though. Ann and Nance have never toured with Robert, Jimmy, John Paul individually or together as Zep.
Heart did tour with Jason Led Zeppelin Experience following this event. Maybe a little bit prior, all I know is they had another singer on line but Jason requested that he perform with Heart. Heart did this with minimal practice for Anne was fighting the flu.
Ann Wilson is 62 years old in this video. Think about that for a sec. This is legends singing for legends in a room full of legends WHEW
Your tears made me cry...
You're right on the mark little sister. In great music always we'll do that to the right people at the right time. When you get as emotional as you do at some of these, it just proves how good the music is.
I love, love, love your reaction to this. You brought me to tears with you, and I'm an old fart lol
You're an incredible person, Aileen! Clearly, you have a lot of passion, wisdom, and appreciation of great music, and being deeply 'moved' by the music is always icing on the cake! Thanks for your authentic and expressive music reactions.
This one is by far, the best live playing of any cover band Ive heard.. soo much awesomeness on stage..
The fact that you connected with the song so much, and felt so much emotion throught, truly shows what a beautiful heart you have.
I'll be darned if I didn't get emotional watching it again, and it's about the 5th time I've watched it. Phenomenal. Bonzo's son, the choir and the orchestra made it a grand slam.
This is the song my mom wished to be played at her funeral after she died of cancer 9 years ago. Just another sad story
This is one of the best , more pure , real reactions I’ve ever watched. If this song doesn’t stir up emotion in you , you aren’t human. Beautiful song and a fantastic reaction. Don’t worry I was crying along with you! Ever damned time !! 6’2 250 of sobbing mess. Thank you for an amazing reaction. ❤
They crushed this…
I like the way Jimmy Page was nodding his head with the solo as though he was actually playing it
Ann Wilson was 62. Amazing. Even more amazing is playing a concert on NYE 2023.
A beautiful reaction, to an amazing rendition.
Nancy Wilson did a phenomenal performance. The band and choir was fantastic surprise.
Great video, keep it up 👍
Yes ! Now my day is complete