Spotlight on The Flying Circus: South Jersey's Epic Led Zeppelin Tribute ZeppelinTribute.com
Welcome to ZeppelinTribute.com, your go-to hub for all things celebrating the legendary rock icons of Led Zeppelin. Today, we’re thrilled to feature The Flying Circus, a powerhouse tribute band hailing from South New Jersey. Drawing their name from a iconic 1975 Led Zeppelin bootleg recording of a Madison Square Garden performance—one of the finest live captures in rock history—The Flying Circus brings the thunderous energy, mystical vibes, and raw power of Zeppelin back to life on stage. Based in the heart of South NJ, this quartet of seasoned musicians has been captivating audiences with faithful recreations of classics like “Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Lotta Love,” and “Kashmir,” complete with the epic solos, soaring vocals, and pounding rhythms that defined an era. What sets The Flying Circus apart is their unwavering commitment to authenticity. From period-accurate gear to nuanced performances that capture the spirit of Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham, these guys don’t just play the songs—they embody them. Whether you’re a die-hard Zep fan or new to the legend, catching The Flying Circus live is like stepping into a time machine. Let’s dive into the talented lineup, starting with their virtuoso guitarist. Mike Margiotta: The Guitar Wizard Channeling Jimmy Page. Leading the charge on guitars is Mike Margiotta, the band’s sonic architect and a true devotee of Jimmy Page’s innovative style. With his double-neck Gibson EDS-1275 in hand, Mike recreates Page’s legendary riffs and solos with pinpoint precision, from the blistering leads in “Heartbreaker” to the acoustic finesse of “Black Mountain Side.” A South Jersey native with decades of experience in the local rock scene, Mike’s journey into Zeppelin tributes began in the early 2000s when he first assembled a group to honor his idols. His attention to detail extends beyond the notes—he studies bootlegs and live footage to nail Page’s stage presence, complete with the mystical flair and improvisational magic. Fans rave about Mike’s ability to make the guitar “sing,” and it’s no wonder The Flying Circus has built a loyal following across NJ venues like the Landis Theater and Cooper’s Riverview. Mutt Naughton: The Golden-Voiced Frontman Evoking Robert Plant on vocals, Mutt Naughton steps into the shoes of Robert Plant with a voice that’s equal parts honey and howl. Mutt’s range captures Plant’s ethereal highs and gritty lows, delivering powerhouse performances on tracks like “Immigrant Song” and tender ballads such as “Thank You.” A charismatic performer with roots in South NJ’s vibrant music community, Mutt brings an infectious energy to the stage, often engaging the crowd with Plant-esque banter and movements. His dedication shines through in the band’s extended jams, where he improvises lyrics just like the original Golden God. Off-stage, Mutt is a Zeppelin historian, drawing from rare recordings to ensure every show feels fresh and authentic. Donny Rockett: The Versatile Bass and Keys Maestro Mirroring John Paul Jones Handling bass and keyboards is Donny Rockett, the rhythmic backbone who embodies the multifaceted genius of John Paul Jones. Donny’s setup includes a classic Fender Precision Bass and vintage keyboards, allowing him to seamlessly switch between thumping bass lines in “Dazed and Confused” and orchestral keys in “No Quarter.” Growing up in South Jersey, Donny honed his skills in various prog-rock and blues bands before joining The Flying Circus. His technical prowess and subtle grooves provide the perfect foundation for the band’s sound, often adding layers of mandolin or organ to replicate Zeppelin’s studio depth live. Donny’s contributions ensure that the tribute isn’t just rock—it’s a full sonic experience. Scott Fredericks: The Thunderous Drummer Honoring John Bonham rounding out the rhythm section on percussion is Scott Fredericks, who channels the unstoppable force of John “Bonzo” Bonham with every beat. Scott’s powerful drumming drives the band’s energy, from the iconic shuffle of “When the Levee Breaks” to the explosive fills in “Moby Dick.” A lifelong Bonham admirer from the South NJ area, Scott uses a Ludwig kit modeled after Bonzo’s to deliver that signature thunder. His stamina and precision shine in the band’s marathon sets, where he often takes the spotlight for extended solos that leave audiences in awe. Scott’s passion for Zeppelin’s groove has made him a fan favorite, proving that the heartbeat of rock ‘n’ roll is alive and kicking. The Flying Circus isn’t just a tribute band—they’re a celebration of Led Zeppelin’s enduring legacy, performing two-set shows packed with deep cuts and hits alike. With roots firmly planted in South New Jersey, they’ve rocked stages across the region, from intimate clubs to theaters, and continue to draw crowds eager for a taste of rock history. Check out their official site at flyingcircuszep.com for upcoming gigs, videos, and more. If you’re in the area, don’t miss their next performance—it’s guaranteed to be a whole lotta love! Stay tuned to ZeppelinTribute.com for more features on tribute acts keeping the Zeppelin flame burning bright. Rock on!