Believe it or not, after nearly five decades in the music industry, Nancy Wilson, the legendary guitarist and vocalist known for her groundbreaking work with Heart, has just released her first-ever solo studio album, You and Me. At 67 years old, Nancy tells Closer that stepping out on her own wasn’t nerve-wracking—it was liberating. “I felt like it would be fun,” she says. “It’s been a really freeing experience. I felt like I could really stretch out and explore new sounds and emotions.”
On top of her new album, Nancy has also unveiled her very own guitar, the Epiphone Nancy Wilson Fanatic. And if that wasn’t enough, she and her husband, Geoff Bywater, recently moved to Northern California, where she’s set up a personal music studio. “I’ve got this amazing two-room apartment above the garage,” she explains. “It’s my first-ever music space, where I can hang my guitars on the wall and crank up the volume without disturbing anyone. It’s like a dream come true!”
From Childhood Dreams to Rock 'n' Roll Icon
Nancy’s journey with music started early. “I was about 9 years old when I picked up the guitar,” she recalls. “And when the Beatles came along, I knew exactly what I wanted to do—I wanted to be John Lennon. That was it. That was the moment that changed everything for me.”
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Growing Up in a Musical Family
Music was always in the air for Nancy. “My mom was a pianist, and we were a singing family. We’d harmonize together all the time. Sundays were special—we’d listen to opera while eating pancakes. And then there was Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Peggy Lee, Judy Garland, and, of course, the Beatles. Our parents even got into our music. We’d sit together and listen to Abbey Road. It was like a family tradition.”
Exploring the Personal Side of 'You and Me'
When asked about the message behind her new solo album, Nancy opens up about its deeply personal nature. “It’s really intimate,” she explains. “The first track, ‘You and Me,’ is actually inspired by a dream I had about my mom. When you lose someone close and they visit you in a dream, it feels like they’re still a part of you. That’s what this song is all about. It’s incredibly personal.”
Music Meets Film: 'I Am All Girls'
Her music isn’t just limited to albums. Nancy’s song “Daughter” from You and Me is featured in the Netflix film I Am All Girls, a powerful story about human trafficking. “It’s such an important film,” she says. “I’m proud to have my music be a part of it.”
The Epiphone Nancy Wilson Fanatic Guitar
Nancy’s new guitar, the Epiphone Nancy Wilson Fanatic, is a testament to her creativity and vision. “It’s inspired by the female form, but it’s perfect for anyone who loves rock ‘n’ roll,” she explains. “It’s loud, it’s beautiful, and it’s affordable. It’s everything I wanted in a guitar.”
Advice for Aspiring Female Musicians
As one of the few women to break barriers in the male-dominated world of rock, Nancy has some sage advice for the next generation. “Stay true to yourself,” she advises. “Don’t let anyone try to objectify you. Be competent, work hard, and don’t get caught up in the drama. This business is tough—it’s like joining the Army. You need to be strong and watch your back, but if you’re dedicated, you can succeed.”
Life Beyond Music
While music has been Nancy’s life, she admits there’s more to her than just the stage. “If I hadn’t been a musician, I probably would’ve gone crazy,” she jokes. “But seriously, I love animals. I could’ve been a vet or a trainer. We have four dogs right now—it’s like having a herd of buffalo sometimes!”
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Raising Kids While Touring
Raising two sons while maintaining a demanding music career wasn’t easy. “It was incredibly challenging,” she admits. “Once they started school, I’d fly them out to join me on tour during breaks. They’d help the road crew, rolling cases and setting things up. They had their own jobs on the road with me.”
Following in Their Mom’s Footsteps
One of her twin sons is following in her footsteps as a talented guitarist, while the other is pursuing screenwriting, like his dad, Cameron Crowe. “They’re both incredibly artistic and talented,” Nancy beams. “I couldn’t be prouder.”
