The Day Heart Jammed With Prince — And What Came Out Of It

April 1, 2025

It was a cool summer evening in 1982 when the members of the rock band Heart found themselves in an unexpected situation that would shape their music and careers forever. The air buzzed with excitement as they prepared for a small concert at a local venue in Los Angeles. Little did they know, the night held a surprise that would leave a lasting mark on their artistry. As Ann and Nancy Wilson, the sisters who fronted the band, tuned their guitars, murmurs of a special guest filled the room. That guest turned out to be none other than the legendary Prince, a rising star known for his electrifying performances and groundbreaking music.

As Prince walked into the dimly lit backstage area, there was a mix of anticipation and disbelief. Heart was already making waves in the rock world, but sharing the stage with Prince was like hitting the jackpot. He had just released his second album, “Prince,” and was known for hits like “I Wanna Be Your Lover.” The sisters exchanged nervous glances and giggles as they prepared to jam, each of them wondering how this unexpected collaboration would unfold.

Once on stage, the atmosphere transformed. The crowd was a mix of Heart fans and curious Prince admirers, and the energy was electric. As they began to play, Prince stepped up to the mic, his voice smooth and commanding. The combination of Heart’s rock edge with Prince’s funk and soul was nothing short of magic. They played a medley of songs, blending “Barracuda” with Prince’s “1999,” creating a sound that was fresh and exhilarating. In that moment, the two distinct styles merged seamlessly, captivating everyone in the audience. Heart’s music gained a new dimension, and the collaboration felt like a celebration of creativity.

After that night, the connection between Heart and Prince only deepened. They found themselves collaborating on new songs in the following months, with Prince sometimes contributing lyrics and melodies that pushed Heart in exciting new directions. The experience influenced Heart’s next album, “Bad Animals,” which featured a richer, more varied sound. The band members felt reinvigorated, and the spirit of creativity that came from jamming with Prince propelled them to new heights in their careers. They began to explore different musical elements, embracing a blend of rock, pop, and soul that resonated with a broader audience.

For Ann and Nancy, that night was more than just a show; it was a release of pent-up passion and creativity. It taught them the importance of stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing collaboration. “Music is meant to be shared,” Ann would often say in interviews afterward, recalling the transformative experience of jamming with Prince. Both sisters walked away inspired, filled with a renewed sense of purpose. The jam session not only strengthened their bond as sisters and bandmates but also solidified their belief in the power of music to connect people from different worlds.

Looking back, that fateful evening in 1982 became a defining moment in Heart’s journey. It reminded them that, sometimes, the most magical moments happen when artists unite, bringing together their unique talents to create something beautiful. As they continued to tour and release more albums, the memory of that enchanting night served as a beacon of inspiration, guiding them through the challenges of the music industry. Heart thrived, and the lessons learned from their jam with Prince fueled their artistic fire for years to come, proving that music truly knows no boundaries.