Recently I have been asked what I
thought of tribute bands. I began to get a negative vibe from the question
itself. Are those bands really loving playing the music of their idol for
themselves or for the falling’s fans? How can we know for sure what the
intentions are behind the mimicking of the person or people that once took the
stage as a favorite band or group?
I have seen a few tribute bands
and some go all out and make sure that even their tattoos look the same. Others
just go out there and make the most of a wardrobe look alike and just play the
heck out of the music that once filled their ears with rhythmic joy. There is
something about walking in to a theatre or your favorite venue and listening to
the sounds of your 'old school' band or group that brings back wonderful
memories. This might tell me that if I created a tribute band, it might be
for the fans. It's a feeling of retrospect. To be able to be taken to
a place in the past that felt just right some how.
There may be those out there who
would create a band with the intention of just living in someone
else's dream. Almost shadowing the fame of their fallen idol. This type of
tribute isn't much of a tribute. These are the ones who just want the
glory of living the life that they couldn't make with their own creativity. I
believe they will still get the recognition of the band but at what cost? If
you have it in you to play exactly like the band or group you idolize, why not
show the world and yourself how original you are by chasing your own dream
knowing you made it on your own accord.
I enjoy all bands and groups
alike. Tribute bands warm my heart when they touch the memories of what that
band or group stood for in their time. I just want these people to enjoy the
gift that was given to them with their own music too.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed many cover bands and tribute bands in the past. It's the closest thing to actually seeing the real artist unless the artist has passed away. As you mentioned, how are we really supposed to know if the tribute bands are doing it for the love of the artist music or for the money and attention. I used to live in the UK and there was couple of tribute bands covering Depeche Mode. I enjoyed listening to these bands, even though they were far from the real thing. Thanks for your post.
~Carlos