The Blues Brothers

American Rhythm & Blues duo, founded in 1978 by comedians [a=John Belushi] and [a=Dan Aykroyd]. As the characters [a=Joliet Jake Blues] and [a=Elwood Blues], Belushi and Aykroyd performed as the lead vocalist and harpist/vocalist, respectively. In character, they were the frontmen for [a=The Blues Brothers Band], which was composed of renowned musicians. The band made its debut as the musical guest on the April 22, 1978, episode of NBC TV's Saturday Night Live. With the help of pianist-arranger [a=Paul Shaffer], Belushi and Aykroyd started assembling a collection of studio talents to form their own band. These artists included saxophonist [a=Lou Marini] and trombonist-saxophonist [a=Tom Malone], who had previously played in [a=Blood, Sweat And Tears]. In addition, guitarist [a=Steve Cropper] and bassist [a=Donald "Duck" Dunn], from [a=Booker T & The MG's] were signed as well. Over time, additional artists such as trumpeter [a=Alan Rubin], guitarist [a=Matt Murphy], drummer [a=Willie Hall] and keyboardist [a=Murphy Dunne] have performed with the band. After Belushi's death in 1982, the Blues Brothers Band has continued to perform with a rotation of guest singers and other band members.