Synopsis
Kicking and Dreaming: A Story of Heart, Soul, and Rock and Roll by Ann Wilson and Nancy Wilson, with Charles R. Cross, is a memoir that tells the story of Heart, one of the most successful rock bands of all time, through the voices of its founding members. Ann and Nancy Wilson, sisters and pioneering female rock musicians, recount their journey from childhood to rock stardom, navigating the male-dominated music industry while staying true to their artistic vision.
The book begins with their early lives in a military family, moving frequently and finding solace in music. Ann, struggling with a severe stutter, found her confidence through singing, while Nancy, inspired by folk music, developed a deep connection with the guitar. Their love for The Beatles ignited a dream of making music their career. As they grew older, their passion for music led them to the Pacific Northwest, where Ann joined a band that would later become Heart, followed by Nancy’s addition to the group, cementing the band's identity.
As Heart gained momentum in the 1970s, Ann and Nancy faced numerous challenges, including industry skepticism about female-led rock bands, objectification from record executives, and the pressures of fame. Despite this, they achieved major success with albums like Dreamboat Annie and Little Queen, producing iconic hits such as Crazy on You, Magic Man, and Barracuda. The latter song was famously written in response to a sexist encounter with the press, demonstrating their defiance against the industry's expectations.
The book does not shy away from personal struggles, detailing Ann’s battles with body image, weight shaming, and substance abuse, as well as Nancy’s heartbreaks and the toll of touring on relationships. Their commitment to their music often conflicted with personal happiness, but they persevered, adapting to shifts in the industry and reinventing themselves in the 1980s with power ballads like Alone and These Dreams, reaching new heights of commercial success.
Beyond their career, Kicking and Dreaming delves into the personal bond between the sisters, showing how their unwavering support for each other helped them endure the highs and lows of fame. The memoir also highlights the evolution of rock music, the gender barriers they broke, and the influence they had on future generations of female musicians. It is a candid, deeply personal, and inspiring account of two women who refused to compromise their passion, proving that rock and roll was not just a man’s game.