What probably started out as groups of buddies getting together in order to pay homage to their favorite band has grown into a music phenomenon all its own: the tribute band. While tribute bands tend to get a bad rap because of the underlying concept, which at its core is basically imitation, the following bands prove that just because you're not the "real deal" doesn't mean you can't rock just as hard. Whether its their uncanny resemblance and amazing reproduction of the original source material or their unique twist on the concept, these five groups rank among the best in the genre.  

Fab Four

As arguably the most successful act in music history, let along rock and roll, The Beatles were much bigger than just their music. But all that aside, they were of course an excellent band able to deliver a memorable performance. Unfortunately, that ship has long since sailed but thankfully, we have the Fab Four, a Beatles cover band that aims to be as close to the real thing as possible, from the music chops to the stage banter and even the look of the musicians themselves! While Beatles cover bands are a dime a dozen, the Fab Four easily rank among the best. Check out the video below and try to argue that they don't come amazingly close to the look, sound and feel of the original mop tops.  

Zoso

Like the Fab Four, Zoso's main draw is amazing precision, coming as insanely close to the real thing as possible. A tall order considering that Led Zeppelin contained some of the most talented group of musicians that ever graced the big stage. But Zoso is known as "the ultimate Led Zeppelin experience" for a reason -- these guys play Led Zeppelin like Led Zeppelin in their prime. Each band member has been carefully selected to portray both the appearance and playing styles of their Led Zeppelin counterparts and it definitely shows. Admittedly, the vocals remain a weak link but there aren't too many vocalists out there that can match the level of Robert Plant in his prime. But beyond that, every lick, every strum and even little the nuances in tone for each song are given detailed attention in order to deliver the most realistic version of the legendary band possible, going as far as making sure the color of the drum kit matches John Bonham's down to a tee. Check out the video below and find out why Zoso is known as the closest thing to the original of any tribute band.  

Mini KISS

Easily one of the most popular cover bands around, Mini KISS has been featured in everything from movies to commercials, most famously in a spot for Dr. Pepper alongside the real band during Super Bowl XLIV. While their diminutive size might have initially put them on people's radar, Mini KISS proves that size doesn't matter in order to rock, having toured with some of music's biggest heavyweights including Peter Frampton, Blue Oyster Cult, Air Supply and more. Although founding member Joey Fatale (the original Mini Gene) sadly passed away in 2011, the band remains dedicated to live shows and touring with the help of a rotating cast of members. Check out the video below to see them in action!  

Live Wire

It's a bit more difficult to make a name for yourself when the band your covering is still rocking as hard and as often as ever. That didn't stop Live Wire, an AC/DC tribute band, from becoming one of the most successful and recognizable cover bands today. The group has performed live on XM Satellite radio, has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning News and is the only AC/DC Tribute band to be featured on AC/DC's official websites, their official Youtube and Facebok pages and AC/DC's only official documentary, "AC/DC FANNATION." Formed in 2000 and consisting of members of the very first AC/DC tribute band, Live Wire perfectly emulates the pure essence, power and electricity of what an AC/DC show is all about and has proven to audiences time and time again that they are easily the closest thing to the real deal. See for yourself in the video below!  

The Iron Maidens

Formed in 2001, The Iron Maidens have quickly established themselves as one of the most popular tribute acts and are rapidly gaining international recognition. The band boasts beauty and amazing stage presence, delivering a must-see stage show with all the works including original Iron Maiden staples such as Eddie, the grim reaper and more. But above all that, their most impressive attribute is pure talent; These women are highly trained professionals with diversified musical backgrounds ranging from orchestral and musical theater to blues and rock, having received multiple awards including best tribute band at events such as The Rock City News Awards, The LA Music Awards, and The All Access Magazine Award Show to name a few. The Iron Maidens cover Iron Maiden material from all eras of the band’s career, encompassing the band’s biggest hits as well as fan favorites. If you're a fan of Iron Maiden or just a good rock show, you owe it to yourself to check these ladies out in action!    

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