Whether it was at a pub, a party, or a no expenses spared concert, we’ve all seen a tribute act. These acts truly immerse their selves in the music of their idols, so they sound like them, move like them and even look like them. Some make a full time career out of it, and some indulge as a hobby.
There’s one thing that they all do though, and that’s bring the music of the world’s biggest acts to an audience who may not have the opportunity to watch the real thing. So what ones are most loved by the great British public?
The Rat Pack
There’s nothing quite like the hits of the Rat Pack to get a party going. From Frank Sinatra to Sammy Davis Jnr, the music of that era is one that transports you back to a time full of glitz and glamour. With the long list of hits ever popular at weddings and other celebrations, the appeal lies in that the songs are instantly recognisable, and totally unforgettable.
ABBA
With countless hits, a West End musical, and a film, ABBA are a true musical phenomenon. Their songs are beloved by fans of all ages, and as soon as you hear the opening notes of one – it’s a one way trip to the dance floor! Part of ABBA’s appeal also lies in their stage outfits, which will bring back some memories of the 1970’s for fans of a certain age! With a tribute act, you get the whole package – the songs and the costumes! For thousands of people across the UK, it continues to be a winning combination.
Elvis
Elvis, or The King as he is known to his fans, is a true musical icon. The man himself was a fan of fans imitating him, allegedly coming second in an Elvis lookalike contest! Whether it’s true or not, the scores of Elvis tributes really do put their all into their acts, donning the famous rhinestone suit and styling their hair into that famous black quiff. The music can speak for itself, with the great man’s songs being as successful today as they were when they were first released. Hits such as Jailhouse Rock, A Little Less Conversation and Suspicious Minds ensure that an Elvis tribute act will be one of the most popular for many years to come.
Robbie Williams
From his Take That days to his long and successful solo career, Robbie Williams is one of the most successful British artists in recent memory. His hits include anthems such as Angels, Rock DJ and Millennium, and these songs are as popular as ever, thanks to Robbie’s legions of fans! A Robbie Williams tribute act is guaranteed to perform hit after hit, and it’ll be hard to stay off of the dance floor for very long!
One Direction
Now it’s time for something for the younger music fans. One Direction are a worldwide phenomenon beloved of teenage girls, and the demand for 1D tribute acts reflect this! While fans above the age of thirty-five may struggle to name some of their hits, a One Direction tribute act is guaranteed to go down a treat with some of their very devoted fans. If you find yourself singing along too? Well, we won’t tell anyone!
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
With these tribute acts performing night after night all over the country, there looks to be no let up in the demand for them. Rightly so! Tribute artists are talented, dedicated performers who have turned the love they have for their musical idols into full-time careers, and long may it continue!
Jackie Dyer is the Marketing Manager for Andy Wilsher Sings, who is exceptionally talented function and wedding singer, and specialises in tributes to Robbie Williams, The Rat Pack and Michael Buble across Essex and the rest of the UK