Little Queenie (Live 1977)

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Little Queenie (Live 1977)" by Heart, recorded for the King Biscuit Flower Hour, and their Zoo Freaks are loving it. This high-energy cover of Chuck Berry’s classic was performed live at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles on July 15, 1977, capturing Heart at the peak of their early career. The track, broadcast nationally by WBCN in Boston, showcases Ann Wilson’s powerhouse vocals and Nancy Wilson’s searing guitar work, transforming Berry’s rockabilly anthem into a hard-rock spectacle. According to a 2017 post on X by Heart, Ann and Nancy reminisced about their album Little Queen, released that same year, noting the raw energy of their live performances during that era, which this recording embodies. Fans on the Heartmongers Facebook group often cite this live version as a standout, with one member calling it “a blistering tribute to Chuck Berry that steals the show.”

Trivia about this performance ties to the King Biscuit Flower Hour’s legacy. The radio show, hosted by Bill Minkin, was a staple for rock fans, airing on over 300 stations at its peak, as noted on Wikipedia. Heart’s 1977 set, including “Little Queenie,” was a promotional push for Little Queen, which faced legal drama with their former label, Mushroom Records. A Ultimate Classic Rock article details how the band’s switch to Portrait Records led to a court battle, with Mushroom attempting to block Little Queen’s release. The live energy of “Little Queenie” reflects Heart’s defiance and determination during this turbulent time. Fan discussions on the Heart Fan Club website recall Ann Wilson’s playful stage banter during the 1977 tour, with some Zoo Freaks speculating she ad-libbed parts of “Little Queenie” to rile up the crowd.

Heart, led by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, began in Seattle’s vibrant music scene in the early 1970s. Ann joined a local band called Hocus Pocus in 1970, which later became Heart after Nancy joined in 1974, as detailed on their official bio page. Their blend of folk, rock, and blues, inspired by Led Zeppelin and Joni Mitchell, set them apart. The band’s debut album, Dreamboat Annie (1976), recorded after moving to Vancouver, Canada, exploded with hits like “Magic Man” and “Crazy on You.” Ann’s commanding vocals and Nancy’s intricate guitar riffs established Heart as pioneers for women in rock. Despite sexist pushback, as Ann shared in a 2017 X post reflecting on Little Queen, their persistence paid off, with the album achieving triple platinum status.

Stay connected with Heart through their official website, where you can find tour dates and merch. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and throwback posts, like their 2017 nod to Little Queen. Fans can join the Heart Fan Club for exclusive content or engage with the Heartmongers Facebook group, a lively community sharing memories and rare live recordings. Zoo Freaks can keep the vibe alive by diving into these spaces, celebrating Heart’s enduring legacy.