The Blues Brothers

January 22, 2024
This boisterous romp by de Visé (King of the Blues) recounts how Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi came up with the Blues Brothers and turned the Saturday Night Live characters into a beloved movie. Aykroyd introduced Belushi to the blues while the two were performing improv with Chicago’s Second City troupe in the early 1970s. Belushi was a quick convert and, after he and Aykroyd joined the inaugural cast of SNL in 1975, he often made guest appearances singing with Manhattan blues acts. SNL creator Lorne Michaels caught one of Belushi’s performances and suggested he repeat the shtick to warm up SNL’s audience. With Aykroyd’s help, the Blues Brothers were born, but Michaels remained skeptical the act was ready for television and relented only when he needed to pad out a 1978 episode that was running short. The skit became a passion for Aykroyd and Belushi and they soon got a movie greenlit. De Visé recreates the film’s troubled production, which was beset by the logistical difficulties of shooting on location in Chicago and Belushi’s worsening drug addiction, and offers perceptive portraits of Aykroyd and Belushi, describing the former as an “obsessive method actor” and the latter as an impassioned performer with “impeccable instincts but no real plan.” The result is a loving ode to a comedy classic. Agent: Deborah Grosvenor, Grosvenor Literary.

Starred review from July 1, 2024

Many are familiar with the "mission from God" that sent Jake and Elwood Blues on high-speed hijinks across Chicago to reunite their band, but few know of the resolve and resources it took to make the film happen. De Vis� (King of the Blues) presents a compelling, comprehensive look at how a "clean-cut teetotaling jock" and a Canadian Catholic seminary dropout became the Blues Brothers. De Vis� describes not only the biographical beginnings of the film's stars but also the intricate industry process of creating a movie, from casting strategy to stunt logistics. Narrator Johnny Heller's gritty voice is a perfect match to the rough, raucous story. Film secrets, friendships, and failures are detailed in an expressive and entertaining listening experience. It's full of comedic television and movie moments, but this tale also takes on a tragic air in recounting John Belushi's untimely death. VERDICT This audio will appeal to listeners seeking an in-depth but accessible behind-the-scenes look at the intersection of rhythm and blues music and the rock and roll lifestyle. Recommended for fans of engaging arts and entertainment expos�s, such as Nick de Semlyen's Wild and Crazy Guys.--Lauren Hackert

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