Staff Picks

50,000 fans roared as Heart rocked “Barracuda” at the NHL Winter Classic, proving their legacy still burns bright.

Since the early 1970s, Ann and Nancy Wilson have been the driving force behind Heart, captivating audiences with their commanding vocals and electrifying stage presence. Ann’s powerhouse voice, widely considered among the finest in rock, soared through the stadium with soul-stirring intensity. Meanwhile, Nancy’s fierce guitar work brought a gritty, kinetic edge to the performance. Their explosive rendition of “Barracuda” served as a potent reminder of Heart’s enduring influence and the sisters’ rightful place as legends in rock history.

This performance held special significance as it marked Heart’s first major reunion after years apart due to personal and professional differences. For long-time fans, witnessing the Wilson sisters back together was an emotional moment—more than just a musical showcase, it felt like a homecoming. The Winter Classic set became a celebration of their shared journey, resilience, and undeniable chemistry that has always fueled the magic of Heart. It was a triumphant return that radiated both strength and sincerity.

With nearly 50,000 fans filling T-Mobile Park, the energy in the stadium was electric. The audience’s enthusiasm was contagious as voices from every corner of the venue joined in on “Barracuda,” turning the performance into a roaring, communal experience. The sheer volume of genuine crowd participation stood in contrast to modern productions heavy on backing tracks, proving that raw, live rock still has the power to unite and thrill in the most authentic way.

Heart’s inclusion in the Winter Classic emphasized how the event goes beyond sports—it’s a celebration of city pride and culture. With deep roots in Seattle, Ann and Nancy were a natural and meaningful choice. Their presence not only honored the region’s iconic music scene but also brought a uniquely local energy to the national stage. The performance became a cultural moment, blending the spirit of hockey with the heartbeat of the Pacific Northwest’s rock legacy.

While “Barracuda” lit up the night, it was only part of an unforgettable setlist that spanned Heart’s career. With each song, the sisters showcased the same fierce passion that’s been their hallmark for decades. Backed by the grandeur of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, their music took on an even richer dimension. The fusion of symphonic and rock elements added drama and elegance, turning fan favorites into sweeping anthems that soared through the winter air.

Heart’s path has been lined with milestones that few bands ever achieve. With over 35 million records sold globally, they’ve produced some of rock’s most enduring hits, including “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You,” and “These Dreams.” But beyond chart-topping success, the Wilson sisters have shattered expectations for women in rock, becoming role models who redefined what was possible in a male-dominated genre. Their trailblazing legacy is not only musical, but cultural.

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