Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives

Karyn Rosenberg
  • 5.0 (14)
  • Music Interviews

Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives is a podcast that goes beyond the spotlight to explore the real stories behind tribute musicians and the creative forces who keep iconic music alive. Hosted by psychotherapist and music lover Karyn Rosenberg, each episode is a deep, personal conversation with tribute band artists, venue owners, photographers, and others in the music world. Together, they talk about identity, passion, and the meaningful lives people build through music — even when they’re performing someone else’s songs. Because it’s not just about the cover. It’s about the calling. It’s about finding your own voice in borrowed notes. Whether you’re a fan of tribute bands, a creative soul chasing your own sound, or someone who finds meaning in music, this show is your backstage pass.

  1. 3d ago

    He Won’t Bring You Down: Reggie Fecteau on ELO, Tribute Bands & the Art of the Show

    What does it take to turn a love of music into a 40-year career, and to understand not only what happens onstage, but everything it takes to get the show there? In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with Reggie Fecteau, a musician, producer, and longtime music-industry professional whose journey has taken him from Canada to the United States and from performing onstage to producing and developing live tribute shows. Reggie shares the unexpected story of how his path shifted from hockey to music and how that decision ultimately became a lifelong career. We talk about performing and producing tributes to artists including ELO, Queen, and Heart, and why recreating legendary music requires much more than simply playing the songs. He also talks about his very successful cover band Sippin' Fire. From lighting, visuals, and production to rehearsals, booking, promotion, and business decisions, Reggie takes us behind the scenes of what audiences rarely see. He also talks about starting over in a new country, navigating COVID, building lasting musical relationships, developing new projects, and why professionalism matters in an increasingly competitive tribute-band world. And beneath all the business and production is something much more personal: the joy of performing live, the connection between musicians and audiences, and Reggie’s belief in the powerful role music can play in our mental health and well-being. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Reggie's Music Journey 01:50From Hockey to Music: A Life-Changing Moment 03:17The Production Show and Tribute Band Success 05:12Treating Music as a Business 07:13The Art of Tribute Performance and Visuals 08:40Moving to the US and Expanding Opportunities 11:25The Joy of Live Performance 12:49Music as Therapy and Stress Relief 15:20Forming Long-Lasting Bands and Collaborations 18:27Relocating to Florida and New Beginnings 21:26Starting Over in a New Country 24:10Innovating with Visuals and Production 28:26Overcoming Challenges During COVID 31:22Performing at Iconic Venues and Future Goals 34:38The Power of Visuals in Live Shows 37:23Engaging the Next Generation of Music Fans 40:33Downtime and Personal Life 43:24Behind the Scenes of Tribute Band Management 44:48Rehearsal Routines and Dedication 45:36Creating New Projects and Musical Innovations 50:08The Business of Booking and Promotion 54:34Working on Original Music and Future Projects 57:15Dream Venues and Future Performances 01:00:42The Importance of Tone and Vocal Range 01:02:50Memorable Concert Experiences 01:04:26Balancing Business and Passion 01:05:13Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Musicians https://www.facebook.com/elotribute https://www.facebook.com/SippinFire https://www.facebook.com/thehearttribute https://www.facebook.com/hermajestythequeentribute

    He Won’t Bring You Down: Reggie Fecteau on ELO, Tribute Bands & the Art of the Show

  2. Sep 17

    No Schism Here: Get to know the band of 46 & TOOL

    What does it take to recreate the music of a band known for complexity, intensity, powerful visuals, and some of the most passionate fans in rock? In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with all four members of 46 & TOOL, a tribute to TOOL featuring Jeff Irving on vocals, Todd Gatchel on guitar, Blaine Minasian on drums, and Ray Perez on bass. We go inside the challenge of taking on music where every part matters. The band shares how they rehearse, what they listen for when learning TOOL's intricate songs, and how four individual musicians come together to recreate the sound, energy, and emotional intensity that fans expect. But a TOOL experience goes far beyond the notes. We talk about the importance of visuals and atmosphere, the emotional depth and meaning behind the lyrics, and how 46 & TOOL works to create an immersive live experience while still bringing their own chemistry and personalities to the stage. The guys also take us back to their own musical beginnings and first concert experiences, share the musicians who influenced them, and talk about the relationships and passion that keep them doing what they love. It's a fun interview with just the right amount of sarcasm and humor peppered in highlighting just how much fun they are having. 00:00Introduction to the band and their passion for Tool 01:12First live concert experiences of band members 04:02Band members' musical backgrounds and influences 08:32How the band came together and their journey 12:20Why they chose to tribute Tool over other bands 17:01The energy and connection during live performances 22:08The challenges of learning and mastering Tool songs 28:20Rehearsal process and preparing for shows 32:34The love of music and continuous learning https://www.facebook.com/46andtoolband https://www.instagram.com/46andtoolband/

  3. Sep 3

    Working Men: The Work Behind the Rush Tribute Project

    How do three musicians take on one of the most technically demanding catalogs in rock and make audiences feel like they're experiencing Rush live again? In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with members of the Rush Tribute Project, a three-piece tribute dedicated to recreating the music, energy, and live concert experience of Rush. With more than two decades of Rush tribute performances behind them, including appearances at RushCon, the band brings music spanning more than 40 years of Rush's career to audiences around the world. We get into what it really takes to play this music. From individual practice and putting the incredibly complex musical pieces together to developing the chemistry required to make three musicians sound much bigger than three musicians, the band shares what happens long before they ever walk onto a stage. But recreating Rush isn't only about getting the notes right. We talk about the visual and sensory elements of a Rush concert, the instruments, sounds and details that matter to devoted fans, and what it's like performing for an audience that knows every note and isn't afraid to let you know when something isn't quite right. The guys also share stories about their earliest concert experiences, balancing careers and family with the demands of the band, life on the road, adapting to livestream performances during COVID, and where they still dream of taking the Rush Tribute Project. 00:00Introduction to the Rush Tribute Project 02:06How the band formed and connected 04:07Rehearsal routines and chemistry 07:00Memorable first concerts and influences 09:55COVID live streams and adapting 15:07Challenging songs and setlist rotation 20:08Emulating Rush's visual and sensory experience 24:59Touring life and challenges 29:53Handling audience expectations and critique 35:01Future goals and dream venues https://rushtributeproject.com/ https://www.facebook.com/TheRushTributeProject https://www.youtube.com/@TheRushTributeProject https://www.instagram.com/rushtributeproject/

  4. Aug 20

    Turn It On Again: Nicholas Brydon and the Music of Genesis & Phil Collins

    What happens when singing Phil Collins at karaoke turns into something much bigger than you ever expected? In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with Nicholas Brydon, frontman of Turn It On Again, a Phil Collins and Genesis tribute band built around something Nicholas believes matters just as much as getting the music right: making audiences feel it. Nicholas shares his unlikely journey from karaoke singer to discovering that his voice had a striking connection to Phil Collins, eventually leading him into the Genesis tribute scene and the creation of a band that quickly began gaining momentum. But building a successful tribute band takes much more than stepping onstage. We talk about the strategy behind growing Turn It On Again, finding the right musicians, working with booking agencies, creating effective promotional content, managing the business side of the band, and balancing it all with a career and family life. We also dive into the music itself, from the different eras of Genesis and Phil Collins' solo catalog to constructing a setlist, tackling emotionally challenging songs, and creating those moments when an audience becomes part of the performance. Journey from karaoke to tribute bandImportance of business structure in musicBuilding a cohesive band and expanding lineupCreating authentic and emotional performancesMarketing and promotion strategies for tribute bandsBalancing music career with family lifeEngaging with fans and enhancing fan experienceThe role of social media and promo videosFuture plans for band growth and expansionThe importance of community and networking in musichttps://turnitonagaintribute.com https://www.youtube.com/@TurnItOnAgainTributeYT https://www.instagram.com/turnitonagaintribute/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554157552389

  5. Jul 30

    Jason Collins Tears Down the Wall: Inside Pink Floyd Tribute Band : Floyd Nation

    What happens when a lifelong connection to music becomes the foundation for building something much bigger than a band? In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with Jason Collins, bassist of Floyd Nation, a Pink Floyd tribute band that has grown from an idea into an immersive live experience bringing fans together through one of rock's most iconic catalogs. Jason takes us back to his early musical influences and shares the story of how Floyd Nation was built from the ground up, including the challenges of creating a band on a budget, finding the right musicians, and making strategic decisions that helped turn a vision into a successful touring production. But our conversation goes well beyond the business of building a tribute band. Jason talks about musicianship, relationships, networking, and the importance of creating genuine connections both onstage and off. We explore how Floyd Nation approaches everything from constructing setlists and performing full-album tributes to balancing the music audiences know and love with the band's own original creative work. Jason also shares the unforgettable experience of recording at the legendary Abbey Road Studios and reflects on the emotional power of live music and its ability to create community among people who may have little else in common. 00:00Introduction to Jason Collins and Floyd Nation 01:50Jason's early musical influences and first memories 04:02Transition from guitar to bass and musical development 06:58Forming Floyd Nation and initial challenges 10:03Lessons learned from band dynamics and relationships 15:11Building Floyd Nation during COVID-19 pandemic 20:04Creating a community through live music and shared experiences 24:57Strategic planning, booking, and industry connections 30:06Touring, setlist construction, and musical choices 34:58Recording at Abbey Road Studios and the experience 45:01Original music vs tribute performances 50:12The emotional and spiritual impact of music 59:57Future plans, original music, and closing thoughts https://floydnation.live/ https://www.facebook.com/floydnationlive https://www.instagram.com/floydnationlive

  6. Jul 16

    Lou Maresca of Live at the Fillmore | Tribute to the Allman Brothers

    What would it be like to witness the original Allman Brothers Band at the legendary Fillmore East... and spend the rest of your life keeping that music alive? In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with Lou Maresca, founder of Live at the Fillmore, one of the country's premier tributes to the original Allman Brothers Band. Lou shares his remarkable journey from studying microbiology and working in sound engineering to building a career dedicated to preserving one of rock's most influential musical legacies. Drawing from his firsthand experiences seeing the original Allman Brothers Band perform during their legendary years, Lou reflects on what it truly means to create an authentic live music experience. We explore the evolution of tribute bands, the importance of honoring the music note for note while still connecting emotionally with audiences, and why authenticity matters now more than ever. Our conversation also dives into the changing music industry, the impact of AI on creativity, the business behind successful tribute bands, and the passion that continues to fuel Lou's commitment to keeping this timeless music alive. Whether you're an Allman Brothers fan, a musician, or simply fascinated by the people who dedicate their lives to preserving great music, Lou's story is a reminder that the most meaningful careers are often built by following your passion, embracing authenticity, and never losing sight of why you started. 00:00Introduction to Lou Maresca and His Musical Journey 01:01From Microbiology to Music: A Unique Path 04:00The Technical Side of Music and Celebrity Encounters 06:45The Transition from Accordion to Guitar 07:56Learning from the Greats: Influences and Techniques 09:53The Art of Tribute Bands: Authenticity vs. Innovation 14:56The Allman Brothers Band: Personal Experiences and Memories 19:55The Last Show at Fillmore East: A Historic Performance 24:59The Formation of Sky Dog and Tribute Band Evolution 29:56AI in Music: The Future of Songwriting 33:59The Human Element vs. AI in Music 36:06The Formation and Dynamics of a Tribute Band 38:30Navigating Ego and Commitment in Music 41:32The Business of Tribute Bands 45:21The Emotional Connection to Music 53:45Advice for Aspiring Tribute Band Musicians 01:01:15The State of the Tribute Band Industry https://liveatthefillmoreband.com

  7. Jul 9

    The Mentos Guy and the Foo Fighters: More Than a Viral Moment

    What happens when a simple costume, a Foo Fighters concert, and perfect timing turn an ordinary fan into an internet sensation? In this special episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, host Karyn Rosenberg sits down with Marc Bautista, frontman of the Barcelona-based Foo Fighters tribute band Fool Fakers, known to fans around the world as "The Mentos Guy." Marc shares the incredible story behind the viral moment when he dressed as a roll of Mentos, caught the attention of the Foo Fighters, and found himself onstage in front of thousands of fans! Discover his journey, passion for music, and the incredible story behind his viral fame. Viral stage moment with Foo FightersMark Bautista''s background and tribute band FoolFakersThe story behind the Mentos costume and stage jumpThe emotional impact of performing live in stadiumsThe importance of passion and dedication in musicMemorable moments and funny stories from concertsThe influence of music and sports on Mark BautistaThe significance of honoring Taylor Hawkins and Dave Grohlhttps://www.instagram.com/foolfakers https://www.instagram.com/mbautim/

  8. Jul 2

    Different Strings: Adi Argelazi's Journey with YYNOT

    What does it mean to leave everything familiar behind to follow your passion? In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with Adi Argelazi Faun, lead vocalist of YYNOT, one of the world's premier Rush tribute bands. From her childhood on a kibbutz in Israel to building a music career from scratch in Los Angeles, Adi shares the remarkable journey that led her to the stage and the experiences that continue to shape her as both an artist and a person. Our conversation goes far beyond tribute music. Adi reflects on the musical influences that surrounded her growing up, the leap of faith required to pursue music in a new country, and the importance of finding the right creative partners. We also talk about balancing pregnancy, motherhood, touring, and original music while continuing to honor one of progressive rock's most iconic bands. Whether she's performing with YYNOT or creating music with her original band, White Witch, Adi's story is one of resilience, creativity, and following your passion wherever it leads. 00:00Introduction to Adi Argelazi and Her Musical Journey 01:37Musical Roots and Early Influences 06:26Exploring Instruments and Musical Education 10:20Choir Experiences and Early Band Formation 14:43Military Service and Music in the Army 17:18Transitioning to the Music Industry in Israel 21:00Moving to California and Early Struggles 25:30The Birth of White Witch and Original Music 28:39Joining Why Why Not and the Rush Tribute Experience 32:28The Journey of Performance and Growth 34:12Building a Family Dynamic in Music 36:33Navigating the Challenges of Tribute Bands 39:48The Impact of Rush's Return on Tribute Bands 42:48Personal Connections to Iconic Bands 45:38Dreams and Aspirations for Original Music 49:03Balancing Relationships in the Music Industry 51:53Life Beyond Music: Hobbies and Downtime 54:37Preparing for Motherhood and Future Performances https://yynotband.com https://www.facebook.com/YYNOTBAND https://www.instagram.com/yynotband/ https://www.instagram.com/adiargelazimusic/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/adi.argelazi

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About

Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives is a podcast that goes beyond the spotlight to explore the real stories behind tribute musicians and the creative forces who keep iconic music alive. Hosted by psychotherapist and music lover Karyn Rosenberg, each episode is a deep, personal conversation with tribute band artists, venue owners, photographers, and others in the music world. Together, they talk about identity, passion, and the meaningful lives people build through music — even when they’re performing someone else’s songs. Because it’s not just about the cover. It’s about the calling. It’s about finding your own voice in borrowed notes. Whether you’re a fan of tribute bands, a creative soul chasing your own sound, or someone who finds meaning in music, this show is your backstage pass.

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