Heart’s Nancy Wilson Says It’s ‘Embarrassing’ to Call Herself an American

Heart’s Nancy Wilson hasn’t minced her words when it comes to the state of the world, claiming she feels “embarrassed” to call herself an American in this day and age.

Wilson’s comments came via a new interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in which she reflected on some of Heart’s enduring singles. In the interview, Wilson noted that the band’s third single, 1975’s “Crazy on You,” was written as a critical response to the Vietnam War, though the lyrics have found themselves relevant once again.

“We were kind of embarrassed at that time to call ourselves American because of the dirty politics of the Vietnam War,” Wilson explained. “To be as subtle as possible, it’s more embarrassing now.”

The discussion also focused on the likes of 1977’s “Barracuda,” which had been initially written about a sleazy industry figure of the time. However, with reference to an infamous quote from President Donald Trump, Wilson conceded the track “is even more relevant in the salacious billionaire culture with the grab-them-by-the-(expletive) mentality.”

“These songs will be there long after we are gone,” she added, before focusing on the contemporary prevalence of the sexism that inspired “Barracuda.”

“I think for women in the culture the pendulum will come back again, and there’ll be another renaissance in the arts to push back against the oppression of the cranky old rich white guys,” Wilson added. “I hope I am alive to see that next revolution.”

Wilson, who has served as the backbone of Heart alongside sister Ann, isn’t alone in her criticism of American politics. In 2018, Ann claimed that the Seattle band’s “Barracuda” could be used by just about any candidate in the 2020 election if they desired. “I think anybody but Trump,” she clarified.

Heart first formed in 1967, though would not take on its most recognizable form until Ann Wilson joined in 1971, with Nancy following in 1975. Debut album Dreamboat Annie was released that same year and would peak at No. 7 on the Billboard 200. The group would top the chart a decade later with their self-titled eighth album, which also featured their first Hot 100 chart-topper, “These Dreams.”

Despite numerous splits and reunions over their lifetime, Heart resumed activity in 2023, with the Wilson sisters receiving a Grammy lifetime achievement award that same year. One decade earlier, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by fellow Seattle artist Chris Cornell.