October 17, 2024
This Saturday, October 19th at 7:30 PM, TUSK returns to the Egyptian Theatre stage, bringing their dynamic tribute to Fleetwood Mac back to DeKalb. As part of our ongoing Backstage at the Egyptian blog series, Marketing Intern Tori Smith had the chance to sit down with the band and talk about their influences, favorite Fleetwood Mac eras, and the energy they bring to every performance. With exciting new elements in store for this year’s show, TUSK promises a night full of surprises and unforgettable moments. Read on for a glimpse into the band’s journey and what you can expect when they take the stage!
TORI: Why did you decide to name the band Tusk? Was there anything specific about the Fleetwood Mac album that influenced the name choice?
TUSK: We simply wanted a name that we thought was identifiable and also was short and easy to say. We felt it was unique.
TORI: Imagine you could go back in time and experience a live performance of Fleetwood Mac at any point in their career. Which concert would you attend?
TUSK; I would say the “Rumours” era tour would probably have been my choice. They were at the height of their popularity and were really coming into their own as a powerhouse live band.
TORI: Is there a specific album or song that you would love to hear live?
TUSK: There are so many great songs it’s hard to pick just one.
TORI: Can you tell us about any special moments or experiences you’ve had while touring as a tribute band?
TUSK: We have been fortunate enough to play in England at a castle for an event. We performed in Hawaii a few years ago, which was very special. We have gotten to share the stage with the Palm Desert Orchestra, which is always a real thrill. So many wonderful moments, and it’s hard to list them all.
TORI: Each member of Fleetwood Mac had a distinctive stage presence. How would you describe the members of Tusk and their individual stage personas?
TUSK: We have a very cohesive stage presence full of joyful energy. We love to perform and find endless enthusiasm on stage. Tom and Randy are great players and fantastic showmen. Kim has a great rapport with the crowd and is very funny aside from being so talented on keys and vocals and Kathy is a stellar front person channeling the dynamic energy of early Stevie Nicks. I try to capture the intensity of Lindsey Buckingham when I play and sing. We also keep a little bit of ourselves in everything so there are creative surprises every time we perform.
TORI: TUSK has previously performed at the Egyptian Theatre; is there anything new about the performance that the community can look forward to from last year?
TUSK: There will definitely be some new show surprises since the last time we were here and we can’t wait to share them with everyone. We are so excited to be back and we are fired up to hit the stage again!
