Mike Gendler

Get ready to rock and roll with another incredible interview! This week, we're sitting down with the powerhouse members of Tusk, the definitive tribute to Fleetwood Mac. For 17 years and over 90 shows a year, Scott McDonald, Kathy Phillips, and Kim Williams have been captivating audiences with their authentic and passionate performances. In this episode, we hear the unbelievable backstories from life on the road, including what happens when a lead singer completely loses their voice on the day of a show. We explore their musical influences beyond the Fleetwood Mac universe, the intricate business machine that keeps the tour running, and their experience performing with full orchestras. Join us for a candid conversation that reveals the heart, humor, and hard work behind one of the world's most successful tribute acts.
Alright everyone, I am so excited to talk with these guys! Ever wonder what it really takes to keep a top-tier tribute band on the road for 17 years? We're pulling back the curtain with the phenomenal members of Tusk, the world's number one tribute to Fleetwood Mac. This isn't just about the music; we get into the nitty-gritty of the tour grind, from hilarious near-disasters to the logistics of performing with a symphony orchestra. Scott, Kathy, and Kim share their journey, their influences, and some seriously valuable advice for any young musician trying to make it. We talk about everything from their bucket-list venues to their secret lives as scary-movie fanatics. You think you know tribute bands? Think again. This is a masterclass in musicianship, business, and passion. You don't want to miss this one!
🎸 Listen & Follow Tribute Band Sessions: 🌐 Website 🎧 Spotify 🍎 Apple Podcasts 📘 Facebook 📸 Instagram 🎵 TikTok 🐦 X (Twitter) 💬 Threads
👉 Watch Tribute Band Sessions on YouTube
Find Tusk Here https://fleetwoodmactribute.com/
⏱️ Clickable Chapters
00:00 – Intro & Tour Stories (Losing a Voice)
00:59 – Welcome to Tusk: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute
01:50 – The Band’s Origin Story: 17 Years and Counting
03:24 – How Did It All Begin?
04:56 – Influences Beyond Fleetwood Mac
07:36 – From Bar Gigs to Big Theaters: Lessons Learned
08:33 – Meet Kim Williams & The Business of the Band
09:43 – The Machine Behind the Music: Crew & Logistics
15:12 – Touring Life & On-the-Road Challenges
19:13 – When a Singer Loses Their Voice
22:21 – Bucket List Venues & Goals (Red Rocks & Alaska)
26:02 – The Art of the Setlist: Hits vs. Deep Cuts
29:24 – What Makes a Great Tribute Band?
37:54 – Playing with a Full Orchestra
45:12 – Tech Evolution: Gear Upgrades Over the Years
48:42 – Hidden Talents & Life Off-Stage
50:02 – Coming Home: Life Off the Road
56:09 – Advice for Aspiring Musicians
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