Top 10 tribute acts

If you can’t get to see your favourite band or singer, the next best thing is a tribute band, but which are the pick of the bunch? Here’s our rundown of the best emulators of the stars: 10. Peat Loaf Real name Pete Rossi, this cleverly named artist will give you the closest possible alternative to seeing rock icon Meat Loaf in the flesh. Visit the website here. 9. Queen by Mercury The legacy of Queen’s distinctive sound lives on through Mercury, who have impersonated the band for almost two decades. Visit the website here. 8. Take That Live This tribute band copies the appearance, costumes, vocals and choreography of the veteran boyband as closely as possible. Visit the website here. 7. And Finally Phil Collins With a lineup that includes two drummers, keyboards, guitar, bass, backing vocalists and horn section, this is the closest you’ll get to a recreation of the experience of a live Phil Collins concert. Visit the website here. 6. Talon Eagles There’s no better praise for a tribute act that the approval of the artists they emulate. Eagles songwriter Jack Tempchin once said “Talon perform the great songs of the Eagles with reverence and super talent.” Visit the website here. 5. ELO Experience This band performs the hits of the Electric Light Orchestra, complete with a five-piece string section. Visit the website here. 4. Hats Off to Led Zeppelin Hats Off are the only tribute band in the UK to be officially endorsed by Marshall Amplifiers and are managed by the son of Led Zep’s former manager. Visit the website here. 3. Badness The choice of the ska and two-tone fanatic, Badness are widely regarded as the number one Madness tribute band. Visit the website here. 2. The Counterfeit Stones The Rolling Stones many still be performing around the world, but if you can’t get to see them, the Counterfeit Stones recreate the Jagger experience. Visit the website here. 1. The Bootleg Beatles The go-to choice for fans of the Fab Four, this outfit has received high praise from the likes of Jonathan Ross and Chris Evans. The Bootlegs have played at major festivals, including Glastonbury and Hyde Park. Visit the website here.