Sometimes when the original attraction is not available, the next best thing is every bit as good. In January of 2015, a popular tribute band will perform at the Hard Rock Casino on the Mississippi coast.
“The Fab Four” is a Beatles cover band who plays a variety of the group’s classic songs in period costumes. The look-a-likes begin the performance in the early 60s suit-and-tie attire that the legendary foursome wore on the “Ed Sullivan Show” before moving into the bright and colorful garb of the “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” era. The performance even features some of Lennon and McCartney’s solo music as the show they call “The Ultimate Tribute” takes the audience through the remarkable decade-long run of one of the most memorable bands of all-time.
While the magic of the original band can never be reproduced, these four talented individuals have practiced the selected songs for years, and their sound is very similar. Even the musician who plays George Harrison is practically identical to the original band member.
Some question the value of tribute or cover bands and see it as a poor substitute for the real thing, but that does not seem fair. Any sort of legitimate Beatles reunion would be impossible; John Lennon was tragically shot and killed 34 years ago yesterday, and George Harrison passed away in 2001. For young fans who were born too late to see the four play together in their prime, or for older fans who are feeling nostalgic, tribute bands are the only way to try and recreate a live experience of the music they have grown to love.
Shakespeare believed one of the crucial elements of theatre to be the suspension of disbelief. As long as modern day fans of classic groups can approach tribute performances with that attitude, the experience should be worth it.