Kicking and Dreaming

September 24, 2012
After years of playing small clubs around Vancouver and the Pacific Northwest for little-to-nothing and enduring numerous indignities at the hands of spiteful club owners, sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson finally got their break when Heart's "Crazy On You" hit the airwaves in 1975, thus realizing a dream born when the girls first saw the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show. But while venues got bigger and paychecks increased, they still struggled with rampant sexism in the music industry, and Ann continued to face criticism for her fluctuating weight. Nevertheless, the duo persevered to attain huge commercial success, paving the way for countless female musicians who would follow. Here, the sistersâwith the aid of Cross (Heavier than Heaven)ârecount failures and victories big and small, as well as the stories behind classic songs like "Magic Man," "Barracuda," and "What About Love" with equal parts candor and humility. Unfortunately, Heart's career arc is all too typical, characterized by success, substance abuse, decline, and a comeback. Still, the sisters' grounded approach and appreciation for each other adds a refreshing element to an oft-told tale. Photos.