Get ready to plug in and turn it up, because we have an absolute legend in the house! This week, we sit down with the incredible Adrian Conner , the powerhouse lead guitarist for the world-famous, all-female AC/DC tribute band, Hell's Belles. For over two decades, Adrian Conner and her bandmates have been shaking audiences to their foundations, and she's here to pull back the curtain on their electrifying journey. We get into how she went from learning Zeppelin riffs in her bedroom to auditioning for a band she didn't even realize was a tribute act!

Adrian Conner gives us an unparalleled insider's look at the evolution of the tribute scene over the last 25 years. What's the secret to longevity? How do you handle it when another tribute band shows up on your turf? And what's the one AC/DC song that gets her fired up every single time she hits the stage? We also talk about her other project on Joan Jett's label and the insane logistics of balancing life, music, and the open road. This isn't just a conversation; it's a masterclass in rock and roll perseverance from a true pioneer. You absolutely don't want to miss this one!

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Find Hells Belles Here

https://www.hellsbelles.info/

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Ever wondered what it takes to transform timeless Disney melodies into stadium-rocking anthems? In this captivating episode, we sit down with Alexis Babini of The Little Mermen & The Princess Pals, a band that’s redefining what it means to be a tribute act. From his family’s rich musical heritage, including a grandfather who played cello for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and on iconic Motown tracks, to his own Berklee education, Alexis brings a unique perspective to the magic of Disney. He shares the wild ride of touring, the meticulous process of crafting their unforgettable setlists, and the unexpected challenges of life on the road, where a 15-passenger van becomes a moving castle. Get ready for an honest, hilarious, and inspiring look at how they blend rock 'n' roll energy with beloved characters, connecting with fans of all ages and proving that Disney magic truly rocks!

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Chapters:

00:00 – The Unsung Heroes: Behind the Stage Magic
00:59 – Meet Our Guests: Disney Superfan & The Little Merman
01:49 – Musical Roots: From Motown to Berklee
03:15 – A Decade of Disney: The Family Legacy
04:44 – Band Genesis: From Aaron Carter to The Little Mermen
06:22 – The Princess Pals Join the Kingdom
07:28 – The Sponge Philosophy: Absorbing Musical Inspiration
08:09 – Childhood Dreams: A Love Affair with Disney
09:02 – Phil Collins’ Multilingual Magic
10:01 – The Fandom’s Heart: Honoring Disney’s Legacy
10:45 – All In: The Disney Direction
11:16 – Auditions & Costumes: The Disney Character Challenge
12:42 – Broadway to Disney: Building the Team
14:05 – Touring Life: Vans, Chaos, and Costumes
15:02 – The Manager–Artist Balance
16:32 – Crafting the Setlist: Disney Rock Transformations
17:35 – Crowd Pleasers & Original Tunes
18:34 – Learning from Legends: Other Tribute Bands
19:45 – Music for Healing: Musicians on Call
20:23 – From Festivals to Fairs: Diverse Venues
21:04 – A Standout Stage: Playing Where Seinfeld Performed
21:50 – Tour Life Hacks & Mental Wellness
22:54 – Connecting with the Kingdom: Fan Interactions
23:57 – Advice for Aspiring Tribute Musicians
24:35 – Future Adventures: Brooklyn Bowl & Beyond
25:00 – The Anthem: Alexis’s Favorite Disney Performance
25:41 – Circle of Life: A Rocking Reimagination
26:14 – Finding The Little Mermen & The Princess Pals

The Little Mermen & Princess Pals

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🎸 Alright Rock ’n’ Rollers — buckle up!

This episode of Tribute Band Sessions dives into the electrifying world of Kiss Nation with Billy May, the powerhouse frontman who doesn’t just play Paul Stanley — he becomes the Starchild.

Billy shares his journey from lifelong KISS superfan to stepping into those platform boots and living the dream on stage. From his early days as a confident performer (but shy offstage) to fronting one of the most respected KISS tributes in the world, he reveals what it takes to make a tribute truly credible.

Spoiler: it’s not about makeup or pyrotechnics — it’s about pure musicianship. As Billy says, “If you’re not a good musician, just go trick-or-treating!”

We explore how Kiss Nation honors KISS’s legacy — capturing the power, spirit, and theatricality of the originals while keeping every show authentic and musically tight. Billy also gives a sneak peek into his new project, One Live Kiss, a Paul Stanley solo tribute, and talks about performing at the legendary KISS Cruise Landlocked event.

He opens up about the physical grind of maintaining his voice, the realities of tribute-band economics, and how to connect with fans beyond imitation. It’s equal parts inspiration, education, and pure rock ’n’ roll energy.

This isn’t just an interview — it’s a masterclass in becoming your musical hero.

From Fan to Starchild: Billy May’s Origin Story (0:00)

Becoming Paul Stanley (4:00)

Musicianship Over Makeup (6:53)

Crafting the Illusion (9:34)

Band Life, Vocals & Setlists (14:32)

One Live Kiss & Tribute Economics (25:29)

Connecting with Fans (32:40)

Advice for Musicians (46:29)

Looking Ahead (50:55)

🎸 Tribute Band Sessions — where legendary music is reborn every week.

Episode Chapters

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Get ready to rock! This week on Tribute Band Sessions, we hang with Rich Kosak, frontman of Mr. Speed—the Kiss tribute that’s been igniting crowds for 31 years. Rich shares his journey from early influences like Cat Stevens and Peter Frampton to the first Kiss concert that lit the fuse. Hear how Mr. Speed was born from a record-show encounter and a shared love of guitar—and how the band evolved into one of the world’s most authentic Kiss tributes.

Rich reveals the dedication behind the spectacle: a custom 1979-style Kiss drum riser built by the son of the original craftsman, fire-breathing shows, blood-spitting, and confetti storms. He opens up about the grind of keeping a pro tribute band alive, the Vegas highs and nightmares, and his unshakable mission to honor Kiss with heart, hustle, and detail.

We talk authenticity, business smarts, costume investments, and his personal motto: passion first, profit second. Whether you’re a die-hard Kiss fan or just love rock history, this is a 31-year odyssey of sweat, makeup, and pyro you don’t want to miss.

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https://www.mrspeedonline.com/

0:00 – The Dynasty Drum Riser & Meeting KISS
0:52 – Welcome to Tribute Band Sessions w/ Rich Kosak
2:33 – Early Musical Roots & New England Connection
4:23 – Working in Music & Paul Stanley’s Acknowledgment
5:35 – Vegas Dreams & Dedication
7:29 – Mr. Speed’s Philosophy: One Day at a Time
8:49 – Accidental Genesis of a Tribute Band
10:14 – The Pursuit of Perfection: Sound, Sight & Spectacle
11:35 – The Business of Rock & Staying Top-Tier
13:06 – Setlist Challenges & Fan Expectations
15:53 – The Drum Riser Saga Revisited
17:15 – Investment in Illusion: Props & Pyro
19:40 – Vegas Competition Victory
20:30 – The Vegas Debacle Story
22:29 – Career Highlights: Freedom Hall & NBA Arenas
24:39 – Policing the Tribute Scene
26:27 – Cost of Commitment & The Look
28:16 – Cadillac Cards & KISS’s Corporate Shift
30:03 – Booking Challenges & Fighting for the Dream
31:45 – Building the Mr. Speed Lineup
34:10 – Physical Demands & Paul Stanley’s Inspiration
35:07 – Honoring Eric Carr with Sister’s Blessing
37:30 – Advice for Aspiring Tribute Musicians
38:45 – Beyond the Music: Look & Business Sense
40:00 – Mr. Speed’s Success Formula
41:29 – The Future: Vegas and Beyond

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Deadheads, this one’s for you! In this episode of Tribute Band Sessions, drummer Rob Koritz of Dark Star Orchestra shares his journey from classical percussion to becoming part of one of the world’s most respected Grateful Dead tributes. Rob explains DSO’s philosophy of improvisation over imitation, honoring the Dead without costumes, and keeping every show evolving. He talks about balancing touring with family, why being a musician is the “hardest easy job,” and how DSO maintains freshness while preserving the spirit of the Grateful Dead. You’ll hear stories about playing with original Dead members, insights on fan culture, international touring, and what separates DSO from other tributes. It’s an inspiring episode for musicians, Deadheads, and anyone who loves the art of reinterpretation.

🎸 Listen & Follow Tribute Band Sessions:

00:00 – Intro: Rob Koritz of DSO
01:51 – Rob’s Musical Roots
02:15 – Early Bands & DSO Origins
02:57 – Joining DSO
03:22 – DSO’s Serendipitous Path
03:55 – Challenges & Changes
04:17 – The “Hardest Easy Job”
04:40 – Recreating Dead Music
05:10 – Sound & Instrument Accuracy
05:41 – Improvisation at the Core
06:22 – Adapting Drum Sounds
06:38 – Collective Musicianship
06:51 – Behind-the-Scenes Authenticity
07:13 – Dead Music Evolution
07:27 – Growing Within the Tribute
07:44 – Always Students
08:02 – Balancing Identity & Tribute
08:07 – Improvised Structure
08:22 – Keeping Shows Fresh
08:43 – Constant Setlist Changes
09:04 – Recreating Full Dead Shows
09:23 – Stage & Gear Adjustments
09:36 – Preparing a Show
09:55 – Listening & Soundcheck
10:46 – Recording & Originality
11:22 – Learning From Imperfection
11:44 – Growth Through Exploration
11:55 – Benefits of Fewer Shows
12:11 – Touring: Then vs. Now
13:08 – Choosing Less Touring
13:42 – Managing Energy
14:10 – Sleeping on the Road
14:26 – Why It’s “Hard but Easy”
14:55 – Touring Dreams vs. Reality
15:19 – Staying Active
15:42 – Rewards of the Career
16:15 – Family Sacrifices
16:38 – Ultimate Reward: Playing
16:44 – Mike’s Perspective
16:53 – Musicians as Big Kids
17:40 – Playing With Dead Members
18:43 – International Tours
19:15 – Why No Tribute Cruises
19:46 – Originality Through Improv
20:02 – Beyond Performance
20:18 – Dedicated Fanbase
20:50 – Loyal Deadheads
21:26 – Fan Friendships
21:52 – Forgiving Audience
22:25 – Appreciating Risks
22:36 – What Makes DSO Unique
22:50 – Growing Tribute Scene
23:15 – Music First, Not Mimicry
23:35 – Huge Dead Cover Community
24:12 – Keeping Music Alive
24:23 – Tribute vs. Replication
24:42 – Why Not Exact Copies
25:00 – Repertoire Flexibility
25:16 – Soundcheck Rehearsal
25:33 – Trust Among Players
26:00 – Shared Knowledge
26:25 – Changing Tribute Landscape
27:10 – New Tribute Variety
27:37 – Aging Originals & Tributes
28:09 – Costume-Free Approach
28:40 – Shift to Authenticity
29:24 – Elaborate Tribute Productions
30:10 – The Voodoo Players
31:07 – St. Louis Music Scene
31:51 – The “Untribute” Idea
32:16 – DSO as an Anomaly
32:31 – Breaking Stereotypes
32:53 – Beyond Vegas Acts
33:20 – Jam Band Ethos
33:57 – Voodoo Players Jams
34:10 – Memorable Moments
34:39 – Playing With Heroes
35:15 – Los Lobos & Little Feat
36:20 – Airplane & Hot Tuna Legends
36:51 – Personal Musical Connections
37:11 – Major Milestones
37:27 – Japan & Fuji Rock
38:20 – Japanese Music Culture
38:49 – Surprising Popularity
39:17 – Long-Term Motivation
39:53 – Joy of Creativity
40:17 – Living the Dream
40:31 – Sustaining the Band
40:46 – Advice to Musicians
41:13 – Have Fun First
41:39 – Authenticity Through Joy
41:59 – Audience Connection
42:13 – Energy Loop
43:00 – Where to Find DSO
43:33 – Online Presence
43:50 – Cross-Generational Appeal
44:22 – Final Thoughts

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Get ready to crank up the volume and break out the sequined spandex!

Mo shares the hilarious origin story of how disco classics became thunderous metal anthems. From being a childhood violin prodigy in the local paper to the moment a promoter asked, “Ever think about a tribute band?”, Mo walks us through how Tragedy was born and how the concept exploded.

We talk stage personas (“the rockstars we wish we were”), their absolutely wild European tours, why the UK spiritually gets disco-metal, their collaborative songwriting process, and their upcoming original music — including a possible connection to a member of the Gibb family.

Tragedy isn’t just a band; it’s a full-blown spectacle. Confetti cannons, cowbells, bubble guns, costume chaos, and pure, unfiltered fun. If you love musicianship, comedy, or rock theater, this episode is your all-access pass.

🎸 Listen & Follow Tribute Band Sessions:

00:00 – Introduction to Mo Royce Peterson
01:09 – Meet Mo & Tragedy
02:04 – Edinburgh: Current Tour
02:22 – European Tour Adventures
02:54 – Tragedy’s NYC Origins
03:13 – Mo’s Musical Journey: Violin to Guitar
03:47 – Musical “Peak” at Age 5
03:53 – Switching from Piano to Guitar
04:48 – The Joy of Guitar & Songwriting
05:47 – The Real Origin of Tragedy
06:29 – The Promoter Call That Sparked It
06:50 – Tribute Bands in 2007
07:16 – Making Metal Out of Non-Metal Music
07:26 – The Bee Gees Lightbulb Moment
07:48 – The Comedy of Disco Meets Metal
08:00 – The Cowbellist Joins Tragedy
08:49 – Stage Personas & The Cowbellist
09:19 – Festivals vs. Club Shows
09:41 – Making Every Show Count
09:55 – Big Metal Festivals
11:02 – Engaging Seated Crowds Theatrically
11:46 – Tiny Edinburgh Rooms
12:48 – Metallica’s Small-Show Energy
13:40 – Mo’s Early Music Influences
14:09 – Love for 50s Rock & Bobby Darin
14:39 – Sister’s Influence: Bee Gees & Journey
15:08 – First Jam Sessions & Mashups
15:23 – MySpace Era Beginnings
15:51 – The Work Behind Music & Videos
16:33 – Collaborative Songwriting
17:20 – Influences & Originality
18:48 – Becoming the “Rockstars We Wished We Were”
19:57 – First Show at BB Kings
20:29 – First Song: Night Fever
20:46 – Parallels to Early Steel Panther
21:49 – Reimagining Songs Creatively
22:13 – Disco Balls to the Wall Album
23:44 – Video Production (Directed by Mo’s Wife)
24:00 – Weirdest Gigs: East Germany
24:55 – Playing a 30-Person Room
25:22 – Terry Bozzio’s Drum Set Issue
26:01 – Small-Club Chaos
26:33 – A Typical Tour Day
27:06 – Van Life & Blurred Days
27:36 – Merch & Meeting Fans
28:22 – Touring with a Small Crew
29:10 – Their Technical Rider
29:50 – Confetti Cannons & Bubble Guns
30:21 – UK vs. US Fans
30:28 – Why the UK Instantly Connects
31:28 – US Touring Challenges
32:56 – How Many Shows Per Year?
33:52 – Balancing Multiple Projects
34:25 – Future Vision: Original Album
35:35 – Perfect Timing for New Music
36:08 – Meeting the Bee Gees’ Children
36:40 – Stephen Gibb (Barry’s Metalhead Son)
37:13 – Their Recording Studio
37:51 – Future Collabs & Tour Partners
38:43 – Bruce Dickinson’s Shoutout
39:12 – Advice for New Tribute Bands
42:36 – Thank You & Where to Find Tragedy

🌐 letsmaketragedyhappen.com

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The Unofficial Eras Tour: Charity Eden’s Journey to Becoming Taylor Swift

What does it take to quit a high-stakes career, step into the shoes of a global superstar, and tour the world—all while paying tribute to Taylor Swift? In this electrifying episode, we sit down with Charity Eden, the powerhouse behind the acclaimed tribute band Lover.

Charity shares how Taylor’s Midnights album and the Eras Tour inspired her leap from wealth management into music less than two years ago. Within months, she was playing sold-out shows in Japan and performing for U.S. troops in Kuwait. Hear how she built a production that channels a billion-dollar tour on an indie budget, blending live music, tracks, costumes, and nonstop energy.

We dive into her viral marketing strategies (including the “Mother Cover” series), the challenges of nonstop performances, the role of business acumen in show production, and her bold move to incorporate original music into her sets. For Swifties, musicians, and dreamers alike, this is an inside look at how passion and professionalism can turn risk into global success.

Find Charity Here https://www.lovertaylortribute.com/about

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⏱️ Clickable Chapters

00:00 – Intro & Leap of Faith: From finance to music
00:14 – Early Success: Japan & Kuwait shows
00:41 – Discovering LOVER: The tribute begins
01:12 – From Corporate to Creative: Musical roots
01:47 – The Taylor Transformation
02:25 – Job vs. Passion Dilemma
03:43 – Midnights Revelation
04:40 – Eras Tour Inspiration
05:50 – Building the Show: Risks & challenges
06:34 – Business Skills in Production
09:48 – Early Roadblocks & Breakthroughs
10:26 – Viral Promo & Growth
12:32 – Global Expansion
14:15 – Transforming Audiences
15:58 – Musical Foundations
17:09 – Replicating Taylor’s Show
18:48 – Creative Direction & Visuals
20:43 – Touring Logistics & Venues
23:56 – Solo Booking & Teamwork
24:55 – Balancing Tracks & Live Music
26:35 – Precision & Pacing Onstage
28:43 – Audience Engagement & Setlists
29:28 – Band & Dancer Dynamics
29:49 – Leveraging Past Production Skills
31:33 – High Volume & Private Gigs
32:16 – Breaking the Fourth Wall
33:21 – Social Media for Growth
34:53 – Branding & “Mother Cover”
38:01 – Creating the Illusion of Taylor
39:42 – The Power of Live Performance
40:23 – Adapting to Tribute Trends
41:28 – Adding Original Music
43:11 – The Message: Be Yourself
44:16 – Fans Embracing Her Originals
45:24 – Five-Year Vision: Top Taylor Tribute + Originals
46:53 – Closing & Where to Find Charity

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Alright, music aficionados, settle in—because on this episode of Tribute Band Sessions, we’re diving deep into the electrifying world of Get the Led Out! This isn’t just a band; it’s a phenomenon, channeling the seismic power of Led Zeppelin into packed arenas and captivated audiences.

We’re joined by Paul Hammond, virtuosic lead guitarist and co-founder, for an unfiltered conversation. He takes us inside his journey—how an obsession with pristine, authentic sound sparked a band that doesn’t just play Zeppelin, they become Zeppelin. Every note, every nuance, every explosive live moment is meticulously recreated.

What defines an “arena rock show” today? We’ll pull back the curtain with stories of vintage gear—yes, genuine ’69 Marshall amps and ’59 Les Pauls—fused with modern tech to craft a sound that’s both timeless and fresh. Paul walks us through his formative years in classic rock, the struggle of mastering Zeppelin’s intricate catalog, and reveals the single hardest Zeppelin song to play live.

And the highlights? Direct praise from Robert Plant and Jimmy Page themselves. Imagine hearing that your tribute is Zeppelin-approved! Paul also shares how the band sustains over 130 shows a year, backed by a 14-person crew, and what the future holds for this touring machine. Is Get the Led Out a tribute band, a cover band, or something entirely unique? That debate ends here.

This episode isn’t just an interview—it’s your backstage pass to passion, surgical precision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence that sets GTLO apart. Trust me: by the end, you’ll be playing air guitar like a madman.

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Find : Get The Led Out

https://www.gtlorocks.com/

Chapters with Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome to the Show

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Tribute Band Sessions takes you behind the curtain of the billion-dollar tribute industry—where legendary music is reborn every night. Hosted by creator, music producer, musician, and talent manager Mike Gendler, along with rotating celebrity co-hosts, each episode features unfiltered conversations with tribute performers, booking agents, and insiders. From tour life and gear to sold-out shows at venues like Red Rocks, this is your all-access pass. New episodes drop every Wednesday.

Premiere 10-15-2025 - 7pm

Sure — here’s a clean, short, clickable version you can drop into your emails, website, or social posts:

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Tribute Band Sessions takes you behind the curtain of the billion-dollar tribute industry—where legendary music is reborn every night. Hosted by creator, music producer, musician, and talent manager Mike Gendler, along with rotating celebrity co-hosts, each episode features unfiltered conversations with tribute performers, booking agents, and insiders. From tour life and gear to sold-out shows at venues like Red Rocks, this is your all-access pass. New episodes drop every Wednesday.

Premiere 10-15-2025 - 7pm

🎸 Listen & Follow Tribute Band Sessions:

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