Shane Fontayne played guitar with Heart at the Kennedy Center.
At the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors in 2012, where Led Zeppelin was celebrated, the rock band Heart delivered a highly acclaimed performance of Led Zeppelin's iconic song, "Stairway to Heaven." During this memorable tribute, the lead guitar duties were handled by Shane Fontayne.
The Iconic Performance
Heart's rendition of "Stairway to Heaven" stood out as a highlight of the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors, which paid tribute to Led Zeppelin members Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones. The performance featured:
- Ann Wilson of Heart on powerful lead vocals.
- Nancy Wilson of Heart on acoustic guitar and backing vocals.
- Jason Bonham, son of Led Zeppelin's late drummer John Bonham, on drums.
- An orchestra and choir, adding to the grandeur of the performance.
Shane Fontayne's contribution on lead guitar was pivotal, as his solo captured the essence of the original while adding a unique flair to the live rendition. This particular performance is often cited as one of the most moving and impactful tributes in the history of the Kennedy Center Honors.
Key Personnel in Heart's "Stairway to Heaven" Tribute
The following table highlights the primary musicians involved in Heart's powerful performance at the Kennedy Center Honors:
| Role | Musician(s) | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Vocals | Ann Wilson | Delivers the iconic vocal performance. |
| Acoustic Guitar, Vocals | Nancy Wilson | Provides foundational acoustic rhythm and harmonies. |
| Lead Guitar | Shane Fontayne | Performed the memorable and acclaimed guitar solo. |
| Drums | Jason Bonham | Maintained the powerful rhythmic backbone. |
| Keyboards | Ben Smith | Contributed to the rich orchestral sound. |
| Bass | Dan Rothchild | Grounded the performance with a solid bassline. |
Fontayne's involvement ensured that the guitar solo, a defining element of "Stairway to Heaven," was delivered with precision and emotional depth, contributing significantly to the performance's lasting impact.
