Hey Deadheads and music lovers! Get ready for an electrifying Tribute Band Sessions episode with Rob Koritz, drummer for the legendary Dark Star Orchestra! Rob takes us through his musical journey, from classical percussion to becoming a cornerstone of one of the world’s most respected Grateful Dead tributes. We dig into DSO’s unique approach—improvisation over imitation, honoring the Dead’s spirit without costumes, and keeping the music fresh every night. Rob shares candid stories of life on the road, scaling back to “only” 80 shows a year, and the reality of being a musician—the “hardest easy job.” You’ll hear how he keeps his creativity alive, balances family with touring, and embraces evolution while staying true to the Dead’s legacy. Expect jaw-dropping tales of sitting in with original Dead members, the energy of their devoted fanbase, and what sets DSO apart in a growing tribute scene. Packed with insight and inspiration, this is a must-listen for musicians, Deadheads, and anyone curious about the art of tribute. Sure — here’s a clean, short, clickable version you can drop into your emails, website, or social posts: 🎸 Listen & Follow Tribute Band Sessions: 🌐 Website 🎧 Spotify 🍎 Apple Podcasts 📘 Facebook 📸 Instagram 🎵 TikTok 🐦 X (Twitter) 💬 Threads 👉 Watch Tribute Band Sessions on YouTube Find Dark Star Orchestra https://www.darkstarorchestra.net/ Chapters 0:00: Intro – Rob Koritz of DSO 1:51: From Classical Percussion to Jazz 2:15: Early Bands & Birth of DSO 2:57: Joining & Breakthroughs 3:22: Serendipitous Rise of DSO 3:55: Band Challenges & Changes 4:17: The “Hardest Easy Job” 4:40: Recreating Dead’s Complex Music 5:10: Sound & Instrumentation Detail 5:41: Improvisation at the Core 6:22: Adapting Drum Sounds by Era 6:38: Collective Effort & Authenticity 7:13: Grateful Dead Music’s Evolution 7:27: Embracing Change in Tributes 7:44: Always Students of the Music 8:02: Balancing Identity & Tribute 8:22: Improvised Show Structures 8:43: Ever-Changing Setlists 9:04: Full Dead Show Recreations 9:23: Stage & Equipment Transitions 9:55: Listening & Soundchecks 10:46: Recording & Finding Originality 11:22: Growth Through Imperfection 11:55: Benefits of Touring Less 12:11: Touring Then vs. Now 13:08: Choosing Fewer Shows 13:42: Energy & Sleep on the Road 14:26: Defining the “Hardest Easy Job” 14:55: Dream vs. Reality of Touring 15:42: Fulfillment in Music Careers 16:15: Families & Sacrifices 16:38: The Reward: Playing Music 17:40: Playing with Dead Members 18:43: International Tours & Festivals 19:15: Why Avoid Tribute Cruises 19:46: Originality Through Improv 20:18: Traveling Fanbase & Deadhead Loyalty 21:26: Friendships & Forgiving Audiences 22:25: Musical Risks & What Sets DSO Apart 23:15: Focusing on Music, Not Mimicry 24:12: Keeping Music Alive 24:23: Tribute vs. Studio Replication 25:00: Vast Repertoire & Prep 26:00: Trust Among Bandmates 26:25: Changing Tribute Landscape 27:10: New Tribute Acts Emerging 28:09: Costume-Free Authenticity 29:24: Elaborate Productions & “Untribute” Mindset 32:16: Dispelling Tribute Stereotypes 33:20: The Jam Band Ethos 34:10: Memorable Collaborations 36:20: Legends & Personal Connections 37:11: Milestone Performances in Japan 39:17: Motivation & Love for Music 40:17: Living the Dream (Not as Expected) 40:46: Advice for Aspiring Musicians 41:13: Priority #1: Have Fun 41:59: Audience Connection & Reciprocal Energy 43:00: DSO Online & Fanbase 44:22: Final Thoughts & Thanks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices