Live at Kennedy Center Honors 2012 “Stairway to Heaven” by Heart, is a thrilling rendition of Led Zepplin’s “Stairway to Heaven” and was more than simply a tribute to his greatness but also an elaboration in the song’s emotional intensity. Although many songs were performed that Night’s “Hearts” take on this song stands out as the Highlight of the night and the musical technicality and mastery required were performed perfectly to articulate the Song in Honor of Led Zepplin.

Although the song has many memorable aspects, a few specific parts stood out to me the most. First, The full choir that joins halfway through the song adds so much presence and musical energy. The chorus’s inflection and swelling vocals exude emotional pressure and weight to the crowd. 

To Lead this song through was Ann Wilson, whose powerful vocals were more than enough to fill the song with so much depth and love. She was able to masterfully articulate Robert Plant’s voice and technique while still adding her flair and grandeur. She stays along the lines of keeping the classic aspects of the song while still bringing it into the modern light of music in today’s society. Finally, Nancy Wilson was unbelievable on the guitar, staying true to the original lines played by Jimmy Page. She was able to perform in such a way that was a respectful tribute to the original band while still performing note-to-note with the original composition. 

Being able to watch the reaction of the original members of Led Zepplin to the rendition is almost the cherry on top of this beautifully crafted masterpiece. The members have a visibly touching reception adds a layer of timelessness and power to this song. To tie it all together the production and cinematics of the song add depth and the camera work masterfully captures the emotions portrayed by the artists. Overall Live at Kennedy Center Honor’s “Stairway to Heaven” by heart was a respectful and creative tribute to the Famous band Led Zepplin and In my opinion is a must-watch for Classic Rock fans.