Jim Belushi Reflects on His Brother John’s 'Blues Brothers' Journey
Jim Belushi recently shared a cherished memory from his early Hollywood days, highlighting his late brother John Belushi’s rise with the iconic "Blues Brothers."
John Belushi's Breakthrough
John emerged as a comedy star as part of the original "Saturday Night Live" cast in 1975. Together with co-star Dan Aykroyd, he created The Blues Brothers, which evolved into a successful blues and soul music band.
The Blues Brothers' Rise
The duo first appeared as musical guests on "SNL" in April 1978. Later that year, they expanded the act into a full band and by September, they were opening for Steve Martin at the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles.
“I’ll tell you what I loved: I loved going to the Universal Amphitheater when they came to LA and they opened for Steve Martin,” Jim, 71, said during the premiere of his film Song Sung Blue at AFI Fest. “And John was so, so magnificent. I loved that moment, to see my brother just hit the top of his chart.”
Legacy and Loss
Tragically, John died on March 5, 1982, from a suspected drug overdose. Following this loss, Jim stepped into John’s role as Zee Blues, performing alongside Aykroyd’s Elwood Blues at his insistence.
Author’s summary: Jim Belushi fondly recalls witnessing his brother John’s rise as a Blues Brother star, a bittersweet moment before John’s untimely death shifted Jim into the spotlight.