Heart’s "Magic Man": A Song’s Journey from Obscurity to Revival
The Long-Awaited Return of a Beloved Classic
"Magic Man" is one of Heart’s most iconic and enduring songs, yet it took years for the band to rediscover its magic. In a recent conversation with Ultimate Classic Rock’s Matt Wardlaw, Nancy Wilson reflected on the song’s tumultuous history and its eventual resurgence in popularity.
The Initial Resistance
For years, Heart abandoned "Magic Man" due to Ann Wilson’s reservations about the song’s lyrics. According to Nancy, her sister viewed the tune as a "teenage girl story," and as a result, she had a hard time connecting with the material. As a singer, Ann has always been particular about the lyrics she sings, demanding authenticity and believability.
A Low-Performances Count
According to Setlist.fm, Heart only performed "Magic Man" a total of 15 times between 1989 and 2001. This meager performance count is surprising given the song’s popularity and enduring fan favorite status. It wasn’t until Nancy Wilson’s persistence and guidance that the band began to incorporate the song back into their setlists.
Breaking Down the Barriers
Nancy recalled having to "talk [Ann] into it again" to perform "Magic Man." She encouraged her sister to view the song as a universal experience, rather than just a teenage girl’s story. "Look, this is every young girl’s experience," Nancy said. "You don’t have to pretend you’re a teenage girl. You just have to sing it to every girl." Ann eventually came around, and the band began to perform the song more frequently.
The Long Version Returns
The full, epic version of "Magic Man" is now a staple of Heart’s live shows. The song features various sections and departures, making it a true journey for both the band and the audience. "It’s a fun journey to go on," Nancy explained. "That’s a very ’70s, authentic ’70s rock song." The song’s revival is a testament to the band’s dedication to their craft and their commitment to delivering a high-energy performance.
Conclusion
"Magic Man" is a true classic, and its journey from obscurity to revival is a testament to the power of perseverance and artistic vision. Heart’s willingness to revisit and reimagine their past works has resulted in a more dynamic and engaging live show. Fans of the band and of classic rock music alike can appreciate the song’s enduring appeal and the band’s dedication to their craft.
FAQs
Q: Why did Heart abandon "Magic Man" for so long?
A: Ann Wilson’s reservations about the song’s lyrics led the band to temporarily shelve "Magic Man" from their setlists.
Q: What was the turning point that led to the song’s revival?
A: Nancy Wilson’s persistence and guidance encouraged Ann to reapproach the song with a new perspective, viewing it as a universal experience rather than just a teenage girl’s story.
Q: What is the full version of "Magic Man" like?
A: The full version of "Magic Man" features various sections and departures, making it a true journey for both the band and the audience. It’s a 7-minute epic song that showcases the band’s musicianship and Ann’s powerful vocals.
Q: Has "Magic Man" become a staple of Heart’s live shows?
A: Yes, the full version of "Magic Man" is now a regular part of Heart’s live performances, and fans eagerly anticipate its inclusion in the setlist.
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