Listen to their cover of 24 or 6 to 4

I recently went to see a Chicago tribute band called Leonid and Friends. I have not previously gone to many tribute band performances, due to snobbery. I thought, if they aren’t the original band members, why bother? Me, music aficionado, is too cool to stoop so low. (Actually, I have no sophisticated musical taste at all.)

I want to confess at this point, that I was being an even bigger idiot than usual. (What, me worry?) Because the performance was OUTSTANDING. Two horns, sax, nine performers. The lead singer was channeling Peter Cetara. The band was great. I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

As an added bonus, they have a lead singer who is beautiful and talented. And who wore a tight pair or pants. So the visuals were great, too.

As I sat there contemplating all of the great tribute bands I have tragically heretofore ignored, two insights occurred to me.

First, many of the bands and performers that I have loved for much of my life, are dead. You can’t go see Stevie Ray Vaughn, or BB King, or the Beatles. If you want to hear their music, you have to go see a tribute band or performer. And you should, assuming they are any good. Additionally, those performers that have not died, and are still touring, are now shadows of their former selves. You know, because they are older than Biden.

Second, seeing a tribute performer will cost far less than seeing the remaining actual band members. You will enjoy the experience as much, and possibly more, than seeing the originals. (Think of the beers you can buy with the ticket savings). For example, Sting wants $300 a ticket to see him. Bet you can find a guy who does a great rendition of his songs for $50.

Last, consider your trips to see the symphony. You can’t see Mozart there, or Chopin, or any of the musicians that played with them conducting. They are all playing in the underground symphony. Every symphony that has played for hundreds of years is tribute band. Does not lessen your enjoyment one bit, does it?

So my recommendation is to forget paying $1000 to see Bruce Springsteen or Taylor Swift. See a great performer who can render up a great rendition of their songs. You can probably find a venue that will sell you beers at your seat while you watch. You will close to the stage, not in the nose bleeders. You will be supporting music. And having yourself one great evening.

Note: I have no financial interest in these guys.