Ann Wilson has long been celebrated for her powerful voice and dynamic presence as the lead vocalist of Heart. Alongside her sister Nancy, she helped shape the band’s sound, blending influences from hard rock, folk, and even heavy metal into timeless classics. Decades later, their music continues to inspire fans around the world.
Raised in a home filled with diverse musical styles, Ann and Nancy were exposed to everything from classical compositions to bossa nova and early electronic music. This eclectic upbringing laid the foundation for Heart’s unique sound, showcased in hits like “Magic Man” and “Crazy on You.”
Though Heart has evolved over the years, Ann’s passion for music remains unwavering. From their debut album Dreamboat Annie to their latest release, Beautiful Broken, Ann’s artistry has endured. Now, she’s sharing a glimpse into her personal playlist, revealing five albums that have left a lasting impact on her life and career.
Blackstar – David Bowie
Ann Wilson has always found inspiration in albums that shape both her music and her life. During a 2021 interview with Spin, she shared some of the records that have stayed with her throughout the years. One album that made the cut is David Bowie’s Blackstar, his hauntingly beautiful final release.
Wilson described Blackstar as “brave and poetic,” capturing Bowie’s boldness as an artist. She emphasized how, throughout his career, Bowie constantly defied conventions, from fashion to gender fluidity. For Wilson, this album stands out because it represents Bowie’s challenge to the “most immutable law of all: mortality.”
Bowie’s willingness to push boundaries and confront such a profound theme made Blackstar an album that will forever remain in Wilson’s collection. It’s not just an album; it’s a reflection of how art can transcend time and face life’s most inevitable truths.
Hejira – Joni Mitchell
Ann Wilson has always been drawn to albums that age like fine wine, and Joni Mitchell’s Hejira is one such album. Wilson, who has been a lifelong fan of Mitchell, described this 1976 release as one that “does not age.” Instead, she believes it “unfolds with time,” growing more meaningful with each listen.
For Wilson, Hejira feels like a lifelong friend. She explained how the album reflects Mitchell’s evolution, calling it a representation of Joni as “a grown woman, a free agent, traveling solo.” The songs capture the depth of Mitchell’s encounters with people and places, blending them with her raw, introspective poetry.
Wilson’s admiration for Hejira goes beyond its lyrics and melody. It’s the way the album continues to reveal new layers that keeps it close to her heart, as if it’s an ever-evolving journey alongside a trusted companion.
Essence – Lucinda Williams
Ann Wilson has long been a fan of Lucinda Williams’ Essence, an album that won her admiration for its authenticity. The 2002 record was nominated for a Grammy, and Wilson described it as “the perfect marriage of unpretentiousness, honesty, and badassery.” For Wilson, Essence stands out in a landscape where many female artists focus on image and style.
Wilson appreciates how Williams provides a refreshing contrast to the “Kardashian/warrior/Barbies” in popular music. She noted that many artists today seem more focused on projecting a hyper-sexual, tough persona. But Lucinda Williams, Wilson emphasized, “actually IS a badass.”
For Wilson, Essence isn’t just a collection of songs—it’s a breath of fresh air in a genre flooded with exaggerated images. Lucinda Williams’ raw talent and unapologetic honesty shine through, making this album a staple in Wilson’s collection.
Perfect Day – Chris Whitley
Wilson has a deep appreciation for Chris Whitley’s Perfect Day, a record that resonates with her on a personal level. She loves how the album feels “so intimate,” capturing a raw, unfiltered emotion that draws listeners in. Whitley’s vulnerability shines through, making it a standout in Wilson’s collection.
For Wilson, Perfect Day is defined by its authenticity. She explained how Chris’s “tangled, smoky vulnerability” is laid bare, with no attempt to disguise or enhance it through heavy production. The album instead creates a “4am, relaxed and buzzed atmosphere” that makes it feel almost like a private moment shared between the artist and the listener.
One of the things Wilson admires most about Perfect Day is how it approaches covers. She believes Whitley’s versions of the songs go “somewhere wonderful,” turning familiar tracks into something uniquely his own. It’s an album that thrives on simplicity and sincerity, making it unforgettable.
Quadrophenia – The Who
Ann Wilson’s final pick takes us back to 1973 with The Who’s rock opera Quadrophenia. She discovered the album by “going back in time,” and it left a lasting impression on her. Wilson noted that Quadrophenia is The Who at their best, saying, “I feel it’s The Who with all cylinders firing.”
While many hail Tommy as The Who’s defining album, Wilson’s preference lies with Quadrophenia. She explained, “Don’t hate me for not thinking Tommy was the one,” adding that Quadrophenia has “more depth; more beauty.” To her, it has everything, from the intricate music to the complex themes of alienation.
Wilson also feels a personal connection to the album. The story of alienation resonates deeply with her, as she believes that Pete Townshend and the band “could really relate close up,” just as she does. Quadrophenia isn’t just an album; it’s an experience that speaks to both the band and listeners on a profound level.