The Tom Pretty’s- Female Tribute Band (New Interview 2024)

Edition Sixty-One- Week Sixty-One:

Written by: Mercedes Barreto

What is the band’s inspiration? Where did the name come from?

“The Tom Prettys is an all-female Tom Petty tribute band that was inspired by the iconic and catchy tunes that so many of us have grown up with. We have taken the songs and given them a female perspective that adds a more immediate and badass sound.”

What is the one song that you feel mostly resonates with the listening audience?

“So many of Tom Petty’s songs resonate with fans, but the favorite of every show is Free Fallin’. The song reflects the challenges people face when reaching for their dreams, and the sense of freedom we all crave. People also love how the song builds and gives power to their struggles.”

Where have the top 2 favorite performances been in terms of best venues? Why and how so?

“Our first show at Grand Cru was an incredible and exciting show because there was anticipation about our band as well as covid restrictions lifting which allowed people to experience live music again. Our second favorite show was playing at Hardscrabble, the music festival al in Red Hook. There was a lot of enthusiasm from the crowd, and it was such an honor to be among a list of other female, fronted bands.”

Who is the band looking forward to working with, if they could pick any two pro executives to work with in the music industry?

“We would love to have a manager and booking agent to help us get to another level where more fans can experience the great songs of Tom Petty, performed by awesome women.”

What is communication like on and off the stage for the band? How would you describe it?

“We are like a family of sisters — it’s mostly fun and when problems arise we always make sure to communicate openly with each other. We definitely have each other’s backs both on and off the stage, and know that we can call on each other for anything. There is a wide range of ages in the band, and some of us have a big-sister role for the younger members.”

Where can we find your bands music, and why should we? What makes the Tom Prettys so iconic?

“We have videos and recordings on our website thetomprettys.com. We are also working on three more concept videos which show the lively dynamic of the band. We play live, shows all around the Hudson Valley and are expanding our reach to the greater New England area. Our shows are also fun for young kids when we play daytime shows, and we inspire young girls who are budding rockstars.”

Questions for the photographer-

What was the vibe when taking photos for this band? What was so special about them?

“I had never seen or heard the band before and had never been to the venue The Avalon Lounge and didn’t know what to expect. An all-female band that did an excellent job with the songs, their look was unique along with the performance room they played in at The Avalon. They are all female musicians but was taken with the expertise in musicianship with each instrument, I had already written to the drummer telling her how good I thought she was and no longer thought of her as a female drummer but just a GOOD drummer.”

What is the one thing you would most recommend to other industry pros working with the band after your experience?

“I would say don’t be fooled by the fact that they are all females and just pretty faces, they are far from that, although they are pretty, the Tom Pretty’s, lol… all excellent musicians and the vocals with Dana were spot on!”