On a crisp spring evening in Toronto, the Coca-Cola Coliseum buzzed with anticipation as fans gathered for one of the most anticipated rock events of the year. Heart, the legendary rock band known for their powerful vocals and timeless hits, took the stage, promising an unforgettable night of music. As the lights dimmed and the crowd roared, the unmistakable opening chords of “Bebe Le Strange” filled the air, signaling the beginning of a performance that would leave a lasting impression.
Full Setlist
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Bebe Le Strange
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Never
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Magic Man
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Love Alive
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Little Queen
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Straight On / Let’s Dance
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These Dreams
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Crazy on You
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Dog & Butterfly
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Dreamboat Annie
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Going to California (Led Zeppelin cover)
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4 Edward (Nancy Wilson solo)
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Mistral Wind
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Alone / What About Love?
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Magic Man
Encore:
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The Ocean (Led Zeppelin cover)
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Barracuda
The Energy
From the moment Ann and Nancy Wilson took the stage, the energy was palpable. The crowd erupted into cheers as the opening notes of “Bebe Le Strange” rang out, setting the tone for the evening. Ann’s powerful vocals and Nancy’s masterful guitar work were complemented by the band’s tight rhythm section, creating a sound that was both polished and raw.
The setlist was a perfect blend of classic hits and deep cuts, showcasing the band’s versatility and depth. Songs like “Magic Man” and “Crazy on You” had the audience singing along, while tracks like “Dog & Butterfly” and “Mistral Wind” showcased the band’s more introspective side.
The lighting and visuals enhanced the experience, with each song accompanied by stunning visuals that complemented the mood and tone of the music. The transitions between songs were seamless, keeping the momentum high throughout the performance.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
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“Magic Man”: The crowd’s reaction to this classic hit was deafening, with fans singing along to every word. Ann’s emotive delivery brought a new depth to the song, making it feel fresh and intimate.
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“Going to California”: The band’s rendition of this Led Zeppelin classic was a highlight of the night. Nancy’s acoustic guitar work was delicate and precise, while Ann’s vocals soared, capturing the essence of the original while adding their own unique touch.
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“4 Edward”: Nancy’s solo performance was a standout moment. The haunting melody and her emotive playing captivated the audience, showcasing her talents beyond the electric guitar.
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“Barracuda”: The encore performance was a fitting conclusion to the night. The song’s driving rhythm and powerful vocals had the crowd on their feet, singing along and creating an electrifying atmosphere.
The Vibe
The vibe at the Coca-Cola Coliseum was one of unity and celebration. Fans of all ages gathered to witness Heart’s performance, united by their love for the band’s music. The atmosphere was inclusive and welcoming, with fans exchanging smiles and stories throughout the night.
The venue itself was the perfect setting for the concert. The intimate setting allowed for a closer connection between the band and the audience, while the acoustics ensured that every note was heard clearly. The sound quality was exceptional, with each instrument and vocal coming through crisply.
Tiny Quibbles
While the performance was largely flawless, there were a few minor technical issues. At times, the vocals were slightly overpowered by the instruments, making it difficult to catch every lyric. Additionally, the transitions between some songs felt a bit abrupt, though this did little to detract from the overall flow of the set.
The absence of an opening act was noticeable. While Heart’s performance was more than enough to satisfy, the lack of a warm-up band left the audience with a bit more time to wait before the main event. However, this was a minor issue in an otherwise stellar evening.
Final Thoughts
Heart’s performance at the Coca-Cola Coliseum was a testament to their enduring legacy in the rock world. The band delivered a high-energy set that spanned their entire career, from early hits like “Magic Man” to newer tracks like “4 Edward.” Their ability to connect with the audience, both emotionally and energetically, was evident throughout the night.
The surprise inclusion of “Going to California” and the epic rendition of “Barracuda” showcased the band’s willingness to take risks and push musical boundaries. The crowd’s enthusiastic response was a testament to the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
As the final notes of “Barracuda” echoed through the arena, it was clear that Heart had once again proven why they are one of the most influential bands in rock history. Their performance was a celebration of their past, present, and future, and a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire.