The Business and the ART of Tribute Bands, James Volpe Rotondi | Hacking Music with John Pisciotta #203

In this episode, we discuss the world of tribute bands. Our guest is James Volpe Rotondi, known for his role as “Jimmy Page” in the tribute band Zoso, and his journey from joining the band to becoming the heart of it. We learn about the back story of Zoso, from its humble beginnings to becoming respected figureheads in the tribute band scene, and discuss the challenges and rewards of portraying iconic musicians. James shares insights into his personal journey with the band, the intricacies of recreating Jimmy Page's legendary performances, and the essence of delivering a timeless Zeppelin experience to the audience. We delve into the art of choosing which parts of a song to play live, the balance between precise imitation and creative expression, and the importance of connecting with the audience while remaining authentic to the original act. Additionally, we discuss the broader landscape of the music industry, from the role of tribute bands in preserving the legacy of rock music to navigating the challenges of the modern music scene. James also offers advice to upcoming musicians, emphasizing the importance of dedication, versatility, and continuously refining one's craft. Join us as we pay tribute to the art of tribute bands, with insights from a musician who's lived it firsthand. James shares his rich history and experiences as the former Senior editor of prominent Guitar Player and Guitar World magazines, detailing the process of creating impactful issues, the surprise of interviewing Edward Van Halen, and the camaraderie and rivalry within the industry.

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