Heart singer Ann Wilson welcomed musicians Chappell Roan and Lucy Dacus onto her podcast following a recent concert in Los Angeles. The conversation covered topics including navigating the music industry, artistic longevity, and personal identity.
The discussion occurred backstage at the Crypto.com Arena after a Heart performance in March. It was released on the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s podcast, After Dinner Thinks, on May 6.
During the chat, Roan praised Wilson, telling her, "You’re rockin’ mama! I’m rockin’ because you rockin’, really, truly." Roan also asked Wilson about the experience of releasing a second album, Magazine, after the success of Heart's 1975 debut, Dreamboat Annie.
Wilson described the process as stressful, noting the pressure felt to match a successful first release. She stated this pressure originated from outside expectations rather than within the band.
Dacus, known for her solo work and as a member of the group Boygenius, asked Wilson if she had ever considered quitting music. Wilson responded by comparing it to quitting eating, suggesting it was fundamental. Roan added that making music felt "like water" to her.
The conversation turned to the topic of power and presence, with Dacus directly asking Wilson, "Are you a witch?" Wilson replied that she did not believe so any more than others. She added that having power over people without intent could be seen as a form of witchery.
The question from Dacus resonates with past commentary regarding Wilson's enduring vocal talent and stage presence. A 2014 online post by Tal Bachman, known for the song "She's So High," jokingly attributed the continued success of Ann Wilson and her sister Nancy to a "pact with Satan" due to their sustained performance quality over time.
All three artists have been active with new releases. Dacus recently put out her fourth studio album, Forever is a Feeling. Wilson is preparing to release Ann Wilson & Tripsitter Live in Concert Blu-Ray on June 6. Roan recently released the track "The Giver."
