ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What happens when a lifelong connection to music becomes the foundation for building something much bigger than a band?
In this episode of Borrowed Notes, Authentic Lives, I sit down with Jason Collins, bassist of Floyd Nation, a Pink Floyd tribute band that has grown from an idea into an immersive live experience bringing fans together through one of rock's most iconic catalogs.
Jason takes us back to his early musical influences and shares the story of how Floyd Nation was built from the ground up, including the challenges of creating a band on a budget, finding the right musicians, and making strategic decisions that helped turn a vision into a successful touring production.
But our conversation goes well beyond the business of building a tribute band. Jason talks about musicianship, relationships, networking, and the importance of creating genuine connections both onstage and off. We explore how Floyd Nation approaches everything from constructing setlists and performing full-album tributes to balancing the music audiences know and love with the band's own original creative work.
Jason also shares the unforgettable experience of recording at the legendary Abbey Road Studios and reflects on the emotional power of live music and its ability to create community among people who may have little else in common.
00:00Introduction to Jason Collins and Floyd Nation
01:50Jason's early musical influences and first memories
04:02Transition from guitar to bass and musical development
06:58Forming Floyd Nation and initial challenges
10:03Lessons learned from band dynamics and relationships
15:11Building Floyd Nation during COVID-19 pandemic
20:04Creating a community through live music and shared experiences
24:57Strategic planning, booking, and industry connections
30:06Touring, setlist construction, and musical choices
34:58Recording at Abbey Road Studios and the experience
45:01Original music vs tribute performances
50:12The emotional and spiritual impact of music
59:57Future plans, original music, and closing thoughts
