Heart’s Quiet Tribute: “Going to California” on The Howard Stern Show
Delivered a deeply moving tribute to with their stripped-down rendition of “Going to California” on. Known for honoring Zeppelin throughout their career, the Wilson sisters chose a different path this time—one rooted in restraint, intimacy, and emotional clarity.
Rather than leaning into power or spectacle, this performance embraced the song’s acoustic heart. It offered listeners a fresh perspective on Zeppelin’s softer side while remaining faithful to the spirit that made the original so enduring.
Approached the vocals with haunting grace, balancing strength and tenderness in equal measure. Her voice drifted effortlessly through the melody, capturing the dreamlike introspection of the lyrics with remarkable sensitivity. Each phrase felt considered, allowing the emotional weight of the song to unfold naturally.
Alongside her, recreated the delicate acoustic textures originally shaped by Jimmy Page. Her fingerpicking was precise yet expressive, honoring the source material while asserting her own musical voice. Together, the sisters created a soundscape that felt both familiar and deeply personal.
This was not Heart’s first tribute to Led Zeppelin, but it was among their most intimate. Over the years, Ann and Nancy have spoken openly about Zeppelin’s influence on their musical identity. Their admiration famously reached a peak with their performance of “Stairway to Heaven” at the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors—a moment that visibly moved Robert Plant.
That history gave added weight to “Going to California.” During their Stern appearance, the sisters reflected on how Zeppelin’s music helped shape who they became as artists, making this performance feel less like a cover and more like a conversation across generations.
In contrast to Heart’s high-energy staples such as “Barracuda” and “Magic Man,” which they also performed during the session, “Going to California” revealed a quieter, more introspective side of the band. The acoustic arrangement gave the song room to breathe, highlighting Heart’s versatility and emotional range.
The performance coincided with the announcement of Heart’s Royal Flush Tour, their first major tour in several years. While the tour promises a mix of classic hits and new material, it was this understated moment that lingered longest—proof that impact doesn’t always come from volume.
Heart’s longevity has always been rooted in their ability to evolve without losing sight of their influences. This rendition of “Going to California” wasn’t imitation—it was reinterpretation, shaped by decades of lived musical experience and genuine admiration.
By channeling Zeppelin’s poetic lyricism through their own lens, Ann and Nancy Wilson created something both respectful and distinctly theirs. The chemistry between Ann’s expressive vocals and Nancy’s intricate guitar work transformed the song into a moment of quiet communion.
Written decades ago, “Going to California” felt immediate and alive in Heart’s hands. It wasn’t just a performance—it was storytelling, connection, and gratitude woven together. A reminder that great songs don’t merely endure; they continue to grow when placed in the care of artists who truly understand them.