Heart’s Nancy Wilson’s “Embarrassing” American Remark Sparks Online Backlash
Rock icon Nancy Wilson, celebrated guitarist of the band Heart, is facing criticism following her statement that it is “more embarrassing than ever” to identify as American.
The vocalist behind the hit song “Barracuda,” aged 71, voiced this viewpoint during an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel earlier in March. The comments began to circulate widely on the social media platform X on Monday, March 24, igniting controversy.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the band’s 1975 track “Crazy on You,” Wilson explained, “We were somewhat ashamed at that time to call ourselves American because of the corrupt politics surrounding the Vietnam War.”
She then added, with emphasis, “To put it mildly, it’s more embarrassing now.”
Social Media Users Condemn Wilson’s Statement
Wilson’s opinion was met with strong disapproval, as numerous fans and critics took to social media to express their anger towards the affluent musician’s provocative remarks about the United States.
“Says the millionaire who made A FORTUNE playing music,” one X user derided. “I’m just done with these individuals at this point.”
Another detractor harshly commented, “This woman is welcome to seek a nation more aligned with her preferences. I’d be interested to observe the demographics of any country she deems suitable, given her strong beliefs.”
“Stop performing 80’s Heart tracks and perhaps it won’t feel so humiliating,” another X user sarcastically suggested.
“Now it’s embarrassing to be a Heart supporter,” another former fan lamented.
Calls for Wilson to Leave the Country
Further criticism included individuals suggesting Wilson should leave the U.S. if she felt such shame.
“Then depart; you will not be missed,” one person commented. “Move then,” another echoed.
Wilson Expands on “Barracuda” Meaning
In the same interview, Wilson provided insights into Heart’s 1977 hit “Barracuda,” describing it as being about “a real creep in a satin jacket” who “aimed to exploit the attractiveness of the women in Heart” throughout the band’s career.
She elaborated that “Barracuda,” particularly, “holds even greater relevance in today’s predatory billionaire culture, characterized by the ‘grab-them-by-the-p—y’ attitude.”
Wilson expressed hope for societal change: “I anticipate that for women in our society, the balance will shift again, and we’ll witness another artistic resurgence that challenges the dominance of bitter, wealthy, older white men,” Wilson stated.
“I hope to witness this next revolution in my lifetime,” she added.
Ann Wilson’s Health and Heart’s Touring Plans
The controversy surrounding the Heart guitarist’s interview follows shortly after an announcement from her older sister and bandmate, Ann Wilson, 74, that she had completed chemotherapy and was prepared to resume touring.
“I’m currently doing exceptionally well, but it has been, to say the least, quite an ordeal,” Ann Wilson disclosed in September. “Chemo is truly challenging.”
“It depletes a person significantly,” she continued. “And then there’s the agonizing two-week wait for test results, a form of psychological torment. I deeply sympathize with anyone who has experienced this.”
The sister duo had to delay a Heart tour last summer following Ann’s cancer diagnosis. They have since resumed performing, with their next concert scheduled for Monday evening in Manitoba, Canada.