Briefcase Full Of Blues (A Tribute to the Blues Brothers): SATB Choral Octavo
As performed by Blues Brothers / Arranged by Alan Billingsley
Item: 35-DS00138289
Digital Download
$2.99
Minimum order quantity: 10 copies
Please note: Under U.S. copyright law, you must purchase the exact number of copies needed for your ensemble. Printing, duplicating or sharing additional copies is strictly prohibited.
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Description
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The Blues Brothers emerged from Saturday Night Live in the 1970s, when Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi performed together as the Chippendales dancers, then pivoted to their now-iconic Blues Brothers persona. Their 1980 film spawned a landmark soundtrack that became a cultural touchstone, blending genuine blues, soul, and R&B with comedic timing and infectious energy. The project introduced millions of listeners to classic American blues while establishing itself as a legitimate musical force, not merely a comedy act.
Why we love this
Alan Billingsley captures the raw, swaggering confidence of this iconic number while keeping the vocal writing accessible enough for high school ensembles to tackle with conviction. The arrangement respects the song's blues DNA but adds choral color and sophistication that transforms it into a legitimate concert piece rather than a novelty cover.
What to expect
Swagger meets sophistication. The piece pulses with the groove and attitude of classic blues while the four-part voicing adds lustre and depth. Expect your singers to feel empowered and playful, channeling confidence with every phrase.
Who it's for
Choirs seeking a contemporary show-stopper with genuine blues credentials and crossover appeal. This works for concert settings, pops programs, or school talent showcases where you want legitimacy without sacrificing fun.
How to get the most out of it
Let the rhythmic swagger breathe. These are blues lyrics delivered with attitude; precision matters less than phrasing with personality and slight syncopation.
Lock the rhythm section into a tight pocket together. The piece hinges on a groove, so your accompaniment (or backing track) must feel locked in before soloists enter.
Demand crisp articulation on the unison and block sections. The power of this arrangement comes from unified声 and clean attacks that cut through the mix.
Balance the lead vocalist carefully against the choir. This number needs a standout soloist, but the ensemble voices must maintain enough presence to anchor the harmonies.
How to use it
Position this as a standalone opener or closer for a concert built around American song styles or film music. It can also anchor a lighter second half of a program, giving audiences a familiar, high-energy moment after more formal classical works.
Skills your students will build
Blues phrasing and rhythmic flexibility within a groove
Leading a section while maintaining ensemble cohesion
Blues harmony and chord progression recognition
Call and response between soloist and choir
Sustained tone production in a popular music context
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