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Copycats: The Best Cover Bands In Minnesota

When you're favorite bands aren't on tour (or no longer tour), a good cover band can be a welcome substitute. Composed of musicians who share in the love for your favorite band, cover bands take fandom to the next level and pay tribute to musical greats by performing their music live. Check out this list for some of the best cover bands in Minnesota.

Belfast Cowboys
(credit: BelfastCowboys.com)

The Belfast Cowboys
www.belfastcowboys.com

On St. Patrick's Day in 2002, nine musicians with a penchant for the music of Van Morrison decided to pay homage to this rock legend by creating a cover band. One of Minnesota's most popular cover bands, the Belfast Cowboys are regulars at Lee's Liquor Lounge and Whiskey Junction, as well as regular fixtures at various venues when St. Patrick's Day rolls around. Go and check out the Belfast Cowboys if you're looking for a wild night.

Hookers and Blow
www.hookersandblow.org

This supergroup, composed of local, rotating musicians from the likes of The Honeydogs, Soul Asylum, the Prairie Home Companion Band and more, has been entertaining fans of 60's, 70's and 80's R&B for over 15 years. From cheesy pop songs to dance hits to classic rock, Hookers and Blow plays it all. The suggestive band name refers to the party mentality that runs rampant in the music business. Hookers and Blow plays regularly in the Twin Cities, so if you're looking for a soulful blast from the past, go check them out live.

Kick The Dog
(credit: Kickthedogband.com)

Kick the Dog
www.kickthedogband.com

"The Dog" can be your boss, your significant other or just the dog days of summer. To go out and 'kick the dog' is to go out and have a good time despite all obstacles. If you're looking to blow off some steam, the musicians from Kick the Dog can relate. Kick the Dog plays a variety of pop and rock hits ranging from AC/DC to Maroon 5 and Kid Rock to Prince (check out the band's song list). Go check out Kick the Dog as this entertaining show is guaranteed to make you forget your woes.

Boogie Wonderland
www.boogiewonderland.com

Who says disco is dead? The groovy musicians who make up Boogie Wonderland keep disco alive by playing covers of the era's most popular hits. You can expect to hear classics like "Get Down Tonight," "I Will Survive" and "That's the Way (I Like It)." Boogie Wonderland not only pays homage to disco through song, the group also dresses the part by donning polyester shirts and gold chains. Boogie down with Boogie Wonderland who plays regularly at various venues in the Twin Cities.

Related: Best Karaoke Bars In the Twin Cities

The R Factor Band
(credit: therfactor.com)

The R Factor
www.therfactor.com

Formerly Rupert's Band, The R Factor consists of 15 talented musicians including multiple singers and a horn section, a rhythm section and even a violin. In high demand for corporate events and weddings, The R Factor keeps plenty busy entertaining fans with its wide selection of musical offerings. The group's influences stem largely from the likes of Frank Sinatra, James Brown, Earth Wind & Fire and more, but The R Factor boasts a complete variety and can play music dating back to the 40s and up to current Top 40 hits. The R Factor is able to accommodate requests, so if you have a special event coming up, be sure to check them out.

Don't see your favorite cover band on this list? Give a shout out to your favorite.

A Minnesota native that was born and raised Up North, Minneapolis is where Christina Kalinowski currently calls home. Christina appreciates irony, loves bacon, enjoys a hearty libation (drink responsibly, folks), and is an avid proponent of the Swanson Pyramid of Greatness. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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