HEART - DOG & BUTTERFLY

Released: January 1979

Charts:  US: #34 

"Dog & Butterfly" is the title track from Heart's fourth album, released as its second single in 1979. The song is a softer, folk-inspired departure from Heart's usual hard rock sound, showcasing Ann and Nancy Wilson's folk music roots. It peaked at #34 on the Billboard Hot 100. Ann Wilson explained that the song's inspiration came from watching a dog tirelessly chase a butterfly, which she interpreted as a metaphor for perseverance through life's challenges.

Ann and Nancy Wilson co-wrote it with their long-time friend and collaborator, Sue Ennis. The three met in junior high when Sue caught Ann’s attention by humming a Beatles song. Ennis would go on to co-write many songs with the Wilson sisters, including most of the tracks on “Dog & Butterfly”. Their partnership continued over the years, with Ennis joining Ann and Nancy in their '90s side project, The Lovemongers.

The song tells of an old man sharing wisdom, using the dog as a metaphor for resilience and joy. Though the dog will never catch the butterfly, it still chases with determination, finding happiness in the effort rather than the outcome. Wilson saw this as a reflection on life’s challenges: no matter how elusive our goals may be, we persist, embodying an undaunted spirit that keeps going. Nancy sees "Dog & Butterfly" as a song that reflects Ann’s essence, highlighting her deep curiosity for spirituality and wisdom. Nancy describes her sister as someone who seeks out “the wise old man” or a spiritual guide, likening her to a Yoda-like figure. 

"Dog & Butterfly" holds special significance for Ann and Nancy, leading them to make it the title track of Heart’s fourth album. The song reflects their perseverance, a trait that also defined their journey in the male-dominated rock industry. The sisters faced sexism and industry pressures, with Ann specifically criticized for her appearance, yet they refused to compromise their image or artistry. By standing their ground as both musicians and songwriters, they earned respect and became trailblazers, inspiring future generations of women in music.