Heart played a pivotal role in paving the way for a generation of female artists and bands that emerged after their groundbreaking success. At the heart of this Seattle-born group’s origins was an unwavering passion for music. The members were driven by their love for creating and performing, which transcended the typical narratives surrounding gender in the music industry.

In a recent episode of the UCR Podcast, Nancy Wilson reflects on the early days of the band, stating, “When we started out, it was not a gender-specific story.” She elaborates on the camaraderie they shared with male counterparts in the music scene. “We were just one of the guys, in many ways, just slogging away side by side with some great players,” she explains, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined their journey.

As Heart began to gain traction, the dynamics within the band shifted, particularly between the Wilson sisters and other members. Nancy acknowledges that their eventual prominence was a natural outcome. “We grew up in a super-musical family, with all levels of music and styles,” she shares. Their unique position as sisters and songwriters provided them with an advantage, drawing attention and placing them at the center of the band’s success.

READ MORE: Discover the Top 10 Heart Songs that defined a generation.

This unique circumstance led to intriguing dynamics, as Nancy notes, “being singled out as women.” She emphasizes that they were not driven by feminism but rather by a strong work ethic instilled in them as military brats. “We wanted to be like the Beatles….and by the time we came out in the mid-’70s, everything was possible in music,” she says, highlighting the influential figures of the time, including Janis Joplin and Grace Slick. Heart’s emergence in the music scene was a natural progression within this vibrant landscape.

Listen to Nancy Wilson on the ‘UCR Podcast’

Looking ahead, Wilson is excited to share her insights at the upcoming third annual Women’s Rock Camp, scheduled for December 5-8 in Los Angeles. She observes significant progress in the industry since her early days. “It’s an interesting time right now in music,” she acknowledges. With a wave of talented female artists like boygenius, Courtney Barnett, and The Last Dinner Party gaining recognition, it’s clear that women are increasingly stepping forward and making their mark as influential rock musicians.

Heart is set to resume its highly anticipated Royal Flush tour in February, featuring a rotating lineup of special guests, including Cheap Trick, Squeeze, and Lucinda Williams. This tour promises to celebrate their rich legacy while showcasing the vibrant evolution of rock music.