In a recently unearthed interview from 1979, John Belushi passionately defended the concept of the Blues Brothers against accusations of cultural appropriation. This interview, part of the Audible documentary “Blues Brothers: The Arc of Gratitude,” sheds light on Belushi’s perspective during a time when the duo was gaining significant popularity.
Belushi, who formed the Blues Brothers with Dan Aykroyd on “Saturday Night Live,” faced criticism for being two white men in a genre predominantly associated with Black artists. Music critic Steve Bloom, who conducted the interview for Soho Weekly News, brought up the backlash the band was receiving. Headlines at the time questioned the authenticity of Belushi’s performance, with some asking, “Can Belushi sing the whites?” and others stating, “Why the Brothers ain’t got no blues?”
In response, Belushi expressed his bewilderment at the criticism. “It’s just weird, you know?” he said. “Why would I do these things? The people watching me understand why I do it, and the band members do. The other people – there’s a certain amount of jealousy, I think, involved.” He emphasized that his motivations were not driven by ego, financial gain, or a desire for audience approval. “I don’t have any of those feelings,” he stated firmly.
Belushi’s frustration was palpable as he continued, “What the f— do these people think I am, anyway? I can’t f—ing understand why they would attack – see, when they attack me, they attack the band, and I hate when they attack the band, because then it makes them look like schmucks for doing what they did for me.”
Bloom pointed out the historical context of white musicians profiting from Black music while Black artists often struggled to receive the same recognition and financial rewards. “You see, there’s a long line of cases where white musicians play Black music and make money, while the Black musicians don’t make the money, supposedly,” Bloom explained.
Belushi was quick to counter this narrative. “That’s not the purpose of the Blues Brothers,” he asserted. He highlighted his commitment to promoting the blues genre, stating, “I say on the record, ‘Buy as many blues records as you can.’ I introduce my band, which is never done. I share the stage with each member of the group, which is never done. I have Danny Aykroyd, you know; we all split everything right down the middle. I give the people, artists parts of the album. I’m putting them in a movie, you know? Nobody believes me.”
Despite the criticism, Belushi remained humble about his talents. “I’m not f—ing fantastic, but that’s not the point,” he remarked, emphasizing that his intentions were rooted in respect and appreciation for the music and its origins.
The interview took place three years before Belushi’s untimely death from a drug overdose at the age of 33. His legacy, however, continues to resonate through the music and cultural impact of the Blues Brothers. The duo’s blend of comedy and music not only entertained audiences but also introduced many to the rich history of blues music.
Belushi’s defense of the Blues Brothers concept highlights the complexities of cultural representation in music. His insistence on sharing the spotlight with Black artists and promoting their work reflects a desire to honor the genre rather than exploit it. The conversation serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions surrounding cultural appropriation and the importance of acknowledging the roots of artistic expression.
As the documentary “Blues Brothers: The Arc of Gratitude” reveals, Belushi’s passion for the blues and his commitment to his bandmates were central to the Blues Brothers’ identity. His words resonate today, encouraging a deeper understanding of the music’s origins and the artists who paved the way for future generations.
In the years since Belushi’s passing, the Blues Brothers have remained a beloved cultural phenomenon. Their music continues to inspire new artists, and the annual Blues Brothers Con celebrates their legacy, drawing fans from around the world. Belushi’s defense of the Blues Brothers concept serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to bridge cultural divides and foster appreciation for diverse artistic expressions.
The interview not only sheds light on Belushi’s thoughts during a pivotal moment in his career but also invites reflection on the broader implications of cultural representation in the arts. As audiences continue to engage with the Blues Brothers’ music, Belushi’s words remind us of the importance of respect, collaboration, and understanding in the creative process.
Source: Deadline
