The Blues Brothers: Soul, Blues, and Rock & Roll Revivalists

The Blues Brothers are an American music and comedy act, famously portrayed by comedians Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi. Originating from a sketch on Saturday Night Live, the fictional brothers Jake and Elwood Blues spearheaded a massively successful revival of classic rhythm & blues and soul music, leading to hit albums, a cult film, and a legendary touring band.

Early career

The act was conceived in 1978, born from a musical sketch on NBC's Saturday Night Live where Aykroyd and Belushi performed as Joliet Jake and Elwood Blues. Backed by an all-star band of seasoned session musicians, the act quickly evolved from a comedy bit into a genuine musical force, releasing their debut album Briefcase Full of Blues that same year.

Breakthrough

The 1978 album Briefcase Full of Blues was the explosive breakthrough, capturing the raw energy of their live shows. It soared to number one on the Billboard 200, was certified double platinum, and spawned the hit cover of Sam & Dave's Soul Man. This success paved the way for the 1980 musical comedy film The Blues Brothers, which cemented their iconic status and expanded their audience globally.

Key tracks

Soul Man - Their signature cover became a top 20 hit and reintroduced the Stax classic to a new generation.

Everybody Needs Somebody to Love - A powerhouse opening number from their debut album that defined their energetic, soul-revival sound.

Gimme Some Lovin' - This Spencer Davis Group cover, featured prominently in the film, showcases the band's driving rock and blues power.

Sweet Home Chicago - A staple of their live set, this Robert Johnson blues standard became synonymous with the act.

Rubber Biscuit - A quirky, comedic doo-wop number that highlighted the act's roots in musical humor.

The band continued to tour and record after Belushi's death in 1982, with Aykroyd and others keeping the music alive. Subsequent albums like Made in America (1980) and Best of The Blues Brothers (1981) continued their chart success, while the film's soundtrack achieved multi-platinum status. The Blues Brothers' legacy is their authentic celebration of American blues, soul, and R&B, delivered with unparalleled showmanship.

Fans of the Blues Brothers' high-energy fusion of styles might also enjoy the soulful rock of Joe Cocker, the gritty rhythm and blues of The Commitments, the classic soul revivalism of Booker T. & The M.G.'s, or the horn-driven rock of Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes.