Best Cover Bands In Chicago
Chicago is a super eclectic city that is filled with a lively nightlife and numerous bars and dives throughout each pocket neighborhood. While the DJ might be alright for going out to a club, sometimes watching live performers can really get the party started. Last year's article about Chicago's Best Cover Bands had some great options for those looking for bands that originate from the Chicago area. However, with so many great bands to choose from, it was inevitable that not all of them could be highlighted in a single piece. The following are some great cover bands that are worth checking out for those looking to really see a show.
American English
The Beatles
www.americanenglish.com
American English is a tribute band for The Beatles and was a winner of the Illinois Entertainer of the Year award. Although it is a band based out of the Chicago area, American English travels all over the world to perform on stages and different venues. The group's manager, Sam Leach, is actually the original promoter for The Beatles. Check out the website for a calendar of all upcoming events. The next performance is set for April 12, 2014 at Moraine Valley Community College. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $20 for students.
Hairbanger's Ball
'80s Hair Metal
www.hairbangersball.com
Hairbanger's Ball is an 80s hair rock tribute band that features both male and female members. This seven-piece band covers all of the memorable rock songs from the 80s, whether power ballads or the rocking monster songs. Established in 2001 out of Chicago, Hairbanger's Ball is still going strong in clubs, private parties, festivals, weddings and corporate events. Check out the group's website for an extensive list of upcoming events in Chicago or contact Joe Valentino at (317) 696-0399 or via email at joebigwig@mac.com.
16 Candles
'80s Music
www.sixteencandlesband.com
Established in 2003, 16 Candles is an 80s cover band that is a little different from the rocking hair bands of the 80s. There are five members in the group, all male, and the look of the band isn't exactly the glitter-faced makeup and big hair from the 80s. However, the 80s were filled with far more than just one style of music. Chicago's 16 Candles has numerous upcoming performances in and around the area, including Rivers Casino and Joe's on Weed Street. Check out the website for an upcoming event near you.
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The Trippin Billies
Dave Matthews Band
www.trippinbillies.com
"Tripping Billies" is actually the name of a song from the "Crash" album by the Dave Matthews Band. The Trippin Billies is a tribute band for the Dave Matthews Band and is originally based out of Chicago. The band plays in large venues throughout the year, including the Windy City Rib Fest and the Taste of Lincoln Avenue Festival. Each year, the band performs the Home Town Holiday Concert at the House of Blues Theater in Chicago. Check out the website for ticket information or tour dates for another upcoming event.
Mr. Blotto
www.www.mrblotto.net
Formed in Chicago in 1991, the core of this band consists of members Mike and Paul Bolger. These brothers came together with their own eclectic tastes in music to form a cover band that includes everything from The Grateful Dead to Phish. What makes this cover band truly unique is that it also writes and perform its own original songs. Check out the website for a schedule of all upcoming shows and venues where you can check out this great Chicago-based group.
Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a Bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her Master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
