Creating waves with Tusk: Exploring chemistry, synergy, and intuition in New Jersey Stage
Tusk, a renowned Fleetwood Mac tribute band, comprises five long-time friends from the music scene in Northwest Jersey. They have been performing together in various capacities for over four decades. The band consists of bassist Randy Artiglere, vocalist Kathy Phillips, drummer Tom Nelson, vocalist-keyboardist Kim Williams, and vocalist-guitarist Scott McDonald. Their collective history contributes to an intimate familiarity that shapes their performances with precision and unspoken understanding.
The founding members of Tusk have a unique bond that surpasses mere musical collaboration. Two members bonded over Little League baseball, two met in middle school and navigated high school together, and all five have engaged in various musical projects over the years. Their connection is more than just professional; it is a deep friendship that bleeds into their performances, allowing them to anticipate and respond to each other’s nuances effortlessly on stage.
Kathy Phillips, Scott McDonald, Kim Williams, Randy Artiglere, and Tom Nelson have been able to achieve tremendous success, performing approximately 100 shows per year. The band has a diverse tour schedule lined up for the upcoming months across different states. Their love for Fleetwood Mac’s music is apparent, and they enjoy bringing it to audiences generation after generation.
Tusk came to fruition when a mutual friend suggested the idea of forming a Fleetwood Mac tribute band. The band members embraced the concept, and over 17 years later, Tusk continues to pay homage to Fleetwood Mac’s iconic music. The band’s name itself, ‘Tusk,’ was chosen to be unique and easily recognizable.
While many tribute bands exist worldwide, Tusk’s success can be attributed to their commitment to delivering exceptional performances every time they take the stage. Their contagious energy and evolving stage show aim to entertain and transport audiences, allowing them to immerse themselves in the joy and nostalgia of Fleetwood Mac’s timeless music.
The band has seamlessly transitioned into full-time musicians, with most members solely dedicating themselves to Tusk. Their experiences in original bands within the vibrant Northwest Jersey music scene have equipped them with a creative edge that enriches their performances. Tusk’s ability to infuse their creativity into song arrangements keeps their shows fresh and captivating for both the band and the audience.
Tusk occasionally performs songs from Fleetwood Mac’s earlier periods, including Peter Green and Bob Welch-era tracks. The band members hold immense respect for the original Fleetwood Mac rhythm section, Mick Fleetwood and John McVie. Tom Nelson praises Fleetwood as one of the greatest drummers in rock ‘n’ roll history, appreciating his blues-inspired style, while Randy Artiglere values the opportunity to represent McVie’s bass playing.
As Tusk continues to enchant audiences with their electrifying performances, their enduring success lies in their unwavering friendship, extensive musical history, and a deep-rooted passion for Fleetwood Mac’s iconic music.