Fans of rock music were treated to a spectacular performance by Heart at the Allentown Fair on July 12, 2023. The band’s much-anticipated return came after a previous cancellation due to lead singer Ann Wilson‘s health issues. The concert lasted for 1 hour and 45 minutes, delivering a powerful set that showcased the band’s legendary status in the rock genre.
The evening began with the thunderous opening of “Bebe Le Strange,” immediately igniting the crowd’s enthusiasm. Ann Wilson, 75, commanded the stage with an energy that belied her age, standing strong while leaning on a stool. Her vocal prowess was clear as she growled, “…So taste our medicine, and I hope you like it; we’re Heart.” The audience erupted in cheers, a testament to the band’s enduring connection with fans.
Heart’s journey began in the early 1970s in Seattle when sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson broke through a male-dominated music scene with hits like “Dreamboat Annie” and “Little Queen.” Their unique blend of hard rock and lyrical ballads carved out a significant space for women in rock music. Now on their “Royal Flush Tour,” Heart was joined by talented musicians including Ryan Wariner and Ryan Waters on guitars, Paul Moak on keys, Tony Lucido on bass, and Sean Lane on drums. This lineup paid homage to the band’s legacy while delivering a fresh and dynamic sound.
As the concert unfolded, Nancy showcased her acoustic Martin guitar during the performance of “Love Alive.” Her fingers danced over the strings, captivating the audience. Ann’s voice was the centerpiece throughout, but Nancy’s guitar skills shone bright, particularly during the poignant “Crazy on You.” The powerful harmonies in “Little Queen” displayed the band’s vocal chemistry, while the sound mix was flawless, allowing every note to resonate with clarity.
During the show, Nancy reminisced about her encounter with the late Eddie Van Halen, recounting how he complimented her guitar skills, saying, “You play really good acoustic guitar.” This personal touch added warmth to the concert, connecting the audience with the band’s history. Nancy performed an acoustic tribute titled “For Edward,” which was met with appreciative applause.
The energy escalated with a psychedelic drum solo leading into the classic “Magic Man,” prompting the audience to dance. The setlist also included the 1990 hit “You’re the Voice” and a cover of Led Zeppelin’s “The Rain Song,” showcasing the band’s wide-ranging influences. The evening continued with a stunning bass solo and a mash-up of “Straight On” and David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance,” highlighting the band’s versatility.
The climactic moments of the night featured “Alone,” which began with Moak on acoustic guitar and blossomed into a full-band experience. The performance then seamlessly transitioned into “What About Love,” culminating in an homage to Zeppelin with “The Ocean.”
The concert reached a thrilling conclusion with “Barracuda,” a song that has resonated with fans since its release. Both guitarists displayed impressive solos, creating an electrifying atmosphere that left the audience exhilarated. Ann Wilson’s live vocals were nothing short of extraordinary, reminding everyone of her significant role in paving the way for female rock artists.
Reflecting on the night, Ann remarked, “Time flies when you’re doing rock and roll.” For the attendees at the Allentown Fair, the concert was not merely a performance; it was a celebration of rock music, nostalgia, and the enduring legacy of Heart.