On August 18, 2021, rock legend Ann Wilson delivered a powerhouse performance at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, reaffirming her status as one of the greatest vocalists in rock history. From the moment she stepped on stage, Wilson captivated the audience with her commanding presence and soul-stirring voice, creating an atmosphere charged with admiration and excitement.
Her setlist was a dynamic blend of Heart classics, personal favorites, and bold covers, including a standout rendition of Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog.” Rather than mimic Robert Plant’s iconic delivery, Wilson reimagined the song with her own vocal firepower, infusing it with drama and emotional grit. The performance was a thrilling fusion of tribute and reinvention, earning explosive applause and visceral reactions from the crowd.
Supported by her solo band, The Amazing Dawgs—featuring seasoned musicians like Tom Bukovac and Paul Moak—Wilson’s sound was both precise and passionate. The band’s chemistry with Wilson was palpable, enhancing each song with vibrant energy while allowing her voice to remain the focal point. Their musical synergy created a seamless flow through shifting moods and tempos, showcasing their deep respect for the craft.
The venue itself, Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, added to the magic. Its intimate layout and storied history amplified the experience, allowing fans to feel every note and nuance up close. The connection between Wilson and the audience was electric, with fans singing along, raising fists, and visibly moved by the performance’s emotional depth.
Wilson’s relationship with Led Zeppelin runs deep. Heart has long cited the band as a major influence, and her tribute to “Stairway to Heaven” at the Kennedy Center Honors famously brought Robert Plant to tears. That reverence was evident in her “Black Dog” performance, which served not just as homage but as a declaration of her enduring strength and artistry.
Beyond covers, Wilson introduced new material like “Greed” and “Black Wing,” revealing fresh layers of her creativity. These songs, rich in poetic lyricism and musical experimentation, demonstrated that Wilson is still evolving as an artist. Yet, her signature fire—the same force that defined her decades ago—remains undiminished.
Her version of “Black Dog” was more than nostalgic—it was proof of her continued mastery. Even in her 70s, Wilson’s voice carried the aggression and agility of her youth, igniting the crowd with every raspy growl and soaring note. The band’s arrangement modernized the classic, adding new textures while preserving its thunderous energy.
Other covers, like Queen’s “Love of My Life” and The Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” further showcased Wilson’s ability to breathe new life into rock staples. Each interpretation felt personal and alive, turning familiar tracks into fresh experiences.
The night was a celebration of rock’s legacy and Wilson’s place within it. Her authenticity, passion, and fearless storytelling continue to resonate across generations. As the final notes of “Black Dog” echoed through the ballroom, the roaring ovation confirmed what fans already knew: Ann Wilson remains rock royalty, her crown untouchable and her fire eternal.
