We have a collection of 5 arrangements for The Blues Brothers - Soul Man
What iconic comedy duo made "Soul Man" a staple of their musical legacy? Learn!
"The Blues Brothers" is a classic American musical comedy film that was released in 1980 and directed by John Landis. The film stars John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as Jake and Elwood Blues, two characters they created for a recurring sketch on "Saturday Night Live." Here are some interesting facts about the film and its iconic song "Soul Man":
Origin of the Blues Brothers: Jake and Elwood Blues made their first appearance on "Saturday Night Live" in a sketch in 1978. They were created by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, who wanted to pay homage to the blues and R&B music they loved.
Musical Talent: John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd were not only talented comedians but also accomplished musicians. They formed a real band, The Blues Brothers Band, which included notable musicians like Steve Cropper, Donald "Duck" Dunn, and Matt "Guitar" Murphy.
"Soul Man" Performance: "Soul Man" is one of the most memorable musical performances in the film. It was originally written and recorded by Sam & Dave in 1967, and The Blues Brothers' rendition became one of their signature songs.
The Bluesmobile: The car driven by the Blues Brothers in the film, a 1974 Dodge Monaco sedan known as the "Bluesmobile," became an iconic vehicle in cinema history. It was equipped with police pursuit features, which led to numerous memorable car chases throughout the movie.
Musical Numbers: "The Blues Brothers" is known for its outstanding musical performances. The film features several legendary musicians, including James Brown, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin, who all contribute to the musical numbers.
The Budget: The film had a relatively high budget for a comedy at the time, partly due to the elaborate car chases and musical sequences. The budget ended up being around $30 million, making it one of the most expensive comedies of its era.
Commercial Success: Despite its budget, "The Blues Brothers" was a commercial success. It grossed over $115 million worldwide and became a cult classic, cementing the Blues Brothers' place in pop culture.
Influence on Music: The film had a significant impact on the revival of interest in blues and soul music in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It introduced these genres to a younger generation of music enthusiasts.
Cultural References: "The Blues Brothers" is known for its humor, memorable characters, and quotable lines. It has been referenced in numerous other films, TV shows, and even music.
Sequels and Spin-offs: The success of the film led to a spin-off animated series and a sequel, "Blues Brothers 2000," released in 1998. While the sequel did not achieve the same level of acclaim as the original, it continued the musical and comedic legacy of the Blues Brothers.
"The Blues Brothers" and their rendition of "Soul Man" continue to be celebrated for their contributions to both film and music history.