"The Blues Brothers" is a classic musical comedy film released in 1980, starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as Jake and Elwood Blues, respectively. The film is filled with interesting facts and trivia, particularly about the iconic musical performance of "Everybody Needs Somebody to Love." Here are some facts about the film and the song:
Musical Inspiration: "Everybody Needs Somebody to Love" is a cover of a classic rhythm and blues song written by Bert Berns, Solomon Burke, and Jerry Wexler. The Blues Brothers' rendition was heavily inspired by Solomon Burke's version.
James Brown's Intro: The song begins with a high-energy introduction by the "Godfather of Soul," James Brown, who performs "The Old Landmark" in a church setting. This scene is considered one of the highlights of the film.
Soulful Backup: The backup singers and dancers in the film were none other than the legendary Ray Charles and the Raylettes, providing additional soulful depth to the performance.
Audience Participation: During the "Everybody Needs Somebody to Love" performance, the audience is encouraged to join in the clapping and singing. The energy in the room is palpable, and it contributes to the overall feel of the scene.
Recorded Live: Unlike many musical scenes in films that are pre-recorded, this performance was recorded live on location at the Palace Hotel Ballroom in Los Angeles. This added authenticity to the scene and allowed the actors to interact with the audience.
Choreography: The choreography for the dance moves in this scene was inspired by the performances of classic rhythm and blues artists, especially those of James Brown and Solomon Burke.
Jake and Elwood's Attire: In this scene, Jake and Elwood Blues are dressed in their signature black suits, fedoras, and sunglasses. This iconic look has become synonymous with The Blues Brothers.
Car Chase: After the musical performance, the film features one of the most famous car chases in cinematic history. The Blues Brothers evade law enforcement in a high-speed chase through the streets of Chicago.
Belushi's Backflip: John Belushi, who played Jake Blues, performed a memorable backflip during the musical number. He was known for his physical comedy, and this moment showcased his athleticism and dedication to the role.
Impact on Music: The Blues Brothers' performances in the film revitalized interest in rhythm and blues and soul music among a new generation of music lovers. The film's soundtrack became a best-seller, and the performances by the cast members are still celebrated for their authenticity and passion.
Cult Following: "The Blues Brothers" has garnered a strong cult following over the years, and the characters of Jake and Elwood Blues are considered iconic in the world of comedy and music.
Sequel and Spin-offs: The success of the film led to a sequel, "Blues Brothers 2000," and various spin-off projects, including a live concert tour featuring Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi (following John Belushi's passing), animated series, and even a Universal Studios theme park attraction.
"Everybody Needs Somebody to Love" is just one of the memorable moments in "The Blues Brothers," and it continues to be celebrated for its energetic, soulful, and entertaining performance.