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Heart, undeniably, is a rock institution, an absolute powerhouse of searing guitar licks and unmistakable vocals. Led by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, few acts have left such a mark on the rock music canon, and “Crazy on You” might just be their masterpiece. On this episode of The Story Behind the Song, Heart’s Nancy Wilson takes listeners behind the insanely iconic song. Listen above or wherever you get your podcasts.
Formed in 1973, Heart was on top of the musical world within just a few short years. Their 1975 full-length debut, Dreamboat Annie, housed such hits as the title track and the irresistible “Magic Man.” Three songs into the tracklist, however, humbly lies what still stands as one of the band’s most recognizable jams — “Crazy on You.” “Crazy on You” not only features one of the all-time great guitar licks, but some of the most kick-ass singing the 1970s has to offer. Each aspect of the multi-phased tune is pure gold, from the shredding, acoustic intro to the shuffling verses to the larger than life chorus.
More than just a killer track, though, the song boasts a surprisingly Heart-felt (ha, get it?), love-above-all message. “That song had so much to say. It was relevant, but it was also sexy at the same time,” Wilson says of the meaning tucked within the sensual lyrics and composition. “It talks about the political world we’re from, and then it just says, ‘Oh, I can’t do all this. I might as well just go crazy on you.’ When all else fails, make love.”
Listen to Heart’s Nancy Wilson explore “Crazy on You” and more above, or on your favorite podcast platform. You can also watch a segment of the interview via the video player below or on YouTube. For more of Heart, grab tickets to their recently-expanded 2024 tour, which features support from Cheap Trick.
Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song for all the fresh and archival episodes coming in Season 2, and rate and review on Apple Podcasts to show your support for our series. Also, check out the new TSBTS merch — including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle — available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below!
Follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media, and keep up with the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our shows.