On the local album/classic rock radio stations, there has been a slew of commercials for an upcoming performance by some Pink Floyd tribute band. Nothing too unusual, except that about two months ago, there was a performance by another PF tribute band. The usual: laser shows and “Dark Side of the Moon”.
I never hear much about Beatles tribute bands or Elvis impersonators nowadays. Led Zeppelin tribune bands are out there, but they’re not as common as those tryng to pull off a faux Floyd.
So, why are Pink Floyd tribute bands so common, and so popular, compared to tribute bands emulating other rockers with cult followings?
I have seen the Australian Pink Floyd - and very good they were, too. Why did I see them, and not, for example, a Beatles tribute band? Probably because what differentiates the Floyd from the Beatles or Elvis is that the former had a stunning stage show, and were known for their performances. Obviously the tribute bands haven’t got the money that the Floyd had to replicate everything the Floyd did, but they (or at least, the APF) didn’t do badly. Incidentally, I liked that instead of an inflatable pig, they had an inflatable kangaroo called Skippy.
That’s pretty much it–Floyd (including both Waters’ and Gilmour’s incarnations) had an amazing stage show. Aussie Pink Floyd does a very faithful re-creation; old fans love the chance to re-live the experience, and new fans get a chance to see what they missed.
There are several touring Who cover bands that do a decent impression of the Moon-era group, the most successful being The Wholigans.