By Mitch Rice
Not everyone has been fortunate enough to see some of the world’s best bands perform for a live audience. By the time you might be of a suitable age or living in the right place, those bands have long disbanded, moved on with their lives, or passed away.
Tribute bands consist of talented musicians who come together to play songs from some of the most loved bands. If you’re curious about the intricacies of tribute bands and whether they’d suit your upcoming event, you can find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions below.
What Are the Most Popular Tribute Bands?
Some of the best tribute bands are those that have formed to play the music of bands that have disbanded due to the deaths of leading members. Some excellent examples are One Night of Queen: a tribute to Queen, Who’s Bad: a tribute to Michael Jackson, Nervana: a tribute to Nirvana, and The Fab Four: a tribute to the Beatles. These bands are highly sought after for their ability to play some of the most famous songs in the western world.
What Is the Difference Between a Cover Band and Tribute Band?
You might use the two terms interchangeably, but there are differences between cover bands and tribute bands. Cover bands perform songs of many artists, whereas tribute bands focus on one. They might also replicate details outside of the music, such as makeup, hairstyles, clothing, and actions.
Do You Have to Pay to Be a Tribute Band?
When you’re creating a band to play songs that aren’t originally yours, it’s only natural to assume you must pay performance rights royalties or a fee to the band you’re covering. It can depend on where you live, but your performance situation can dictate whether you pay royalties or fees.
For example, if you were playing songs by a band that still trades as a live act, the original band might pursue legal action if it’s deemed that the tribute act was devaluing or undermining them. If audience members were led to believe they were seeing the original band, this might also be cause for legal action. However, in most situations, performing rights would be the responsibility of the venue rather than the act.
Why Are Tribute Bands So Popular?
Tribute bands can enjoy sold-out venues and are also popular for corporate functions and other special events. You might be curious why they’re so popular when they aren’t the original bands. Many music lovers never get the opportunity to see their favorite bands in person before they stop touring. Tribute bands step up and play their favorite songs, allowing fans to enjoy what they might have missed – even if they can’t see the original band members.
What Do Tribute Bands Earn?
Like original bands, the earnings of tribute bands can depend on their reputation and where they play. Some of the best in the world can earn thousands of dollars per night, while other lesser-known ones might earn a few hundred.
Tribute bands continue to be popular, especially as people love hearing songs from days gone by. Now that you understand more about tribute bands, you might be more inclined to purchase tickets to some of the most well-known ones in your area.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment, medical or other purposes.
