Heart and The Wilson Sisters Shine with The Royal Philharmonic at Royal Albert Hall in “What About Love”
Heart’s performance of “What About Love” with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall was a monumental event that showcased the band’s enduring talent and the timeless appeal of their music. This concert, recorded in June 2016, was a significant milestone for Heart as it marked their first-ever performance at the prestigious venue and their first concert film featuring a full orchestra. The collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra added a layer of sophistication and grandeur to the performance, elevating their classic hits to new heights.
The Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy, have been the driving force behind Heart since the band’s inception in the early 1970s. Their dynamic presence and powerful performances have made them icons in the rock music world. Ann Wilson’s voice is often described as one of the best in rock history, and her ability to convey deep emotion and power through her singing is unparalleled. Nancy Wilson’s guitar playing and harmonies complement Ann’s vocals perfectly, creating a synergy that has defined Heart’s sound for decades.
“What About Love” is one of Heart’s most beloved songs, originally released in 1985 on their self-titled album. The song became a massive hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Heart’s comeback in the 1980s. The orchestral arrangement performed at the Royal Albert Hall brought a new dimension to the song, with the strings and orchestral flourishes adding emotional depth and intensity.
The Royal Albert Hall, with its rich history and acoustics, provided the perfect backdrop for this performance. The audience was treated to a visual and auditory feast as Heart and the orchestra seamlessly blended rock and classical elements. The concert featured a mix of Heart’s greatest hits, including “These Dreams,” “Alone,” “Barracuda,” and “Magic Man,” alongside tracks from their latest album at the time, “Beautiful Broken.”
The chemistry between Heart and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was evident throughout the performance. Conductor Nick Davies expertly guided the orchestra, ensuring that the orchestral elements complemented rather than overshadowed the band’s rock sound. The result was a harmonious blend that highlighted the strengths of both the band and the orchestra.
Ann Wilson’s vocal performance was a standout, showcasing her incredible range and emotional depth. Her ability to convey the song’s themes of longing and passion resonated deeply with the audience. Nancy Wilson’s guitar work was equally impressive, her solos and riffs adding a raw, rock edge to the orchestral arrangements.
The concert was not just a musical performance but a visual spectacle as well. The staging, lighting, and cinematography captured the grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall and the energy of the performance. The interplay between the band and the orchestra was highlighted, showing the mutual respect and collaboration that made the concert so special.
The inclusion of Jason Bonham, son of Led Zeppelin’s drummer John Bonham, added another layer of depth to the performance. His presence on the drums brought a sense of continuity and homage to rock history, bridging the past and present.
This performance was released as a live album and concert film, allowing fans worldwide to experience the magic of that night. It serves as a testament to Heart’s enduring legacy and their ability to innovate and captivate audiences even after decades in the music industry.
The Wilson sisters continue to be a powerful force in music, their influence and contributions recognized and celebrated by fans and peers alike. Their performance with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall stands as one of the highlights of their illustrious career, a perfect blend of rock and orchestral music that showcases their timeless talent and the enduring power of their music.
