Bill Murray Takes the Mic: Veteran Actor Leads Vocals in New Band

Bill Murray, the actor best known for his roles in films like Lost in Translation and classics from Saturday Night Live, has taken on a surprising new role: lead singer in the bluesy classic-rock band Blood Brothers.

The group performs songs by artists such as the Kinks, Stephen Stills, and Paul Butterfield, blending well-known hits with lesser-known gems.

“This band is made up of all-stars,” Murray told reporters. “Each of them brings a different energy, which makes me really have to dig in. I enjoy the challenge each night and am thankful they keep it coming!”

Blood Brothers was co-founded in 2022 by guitarists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia, both accomplished musicians with multiple Blues Music Awards between them. Zito also plays with Royal Southern Brotherhood, alongside members like Cyril Neville and Devon Allman. Castiglia has worked with blues legends including Junior Wells and Pinetop Perkins.

For their current tour with Murray, they are joined by guitarist Jimmy Vivino, known for his work on Late Night with Conan O’Brien.

Vivino praised Murray’s stage presence, saying, “If you can’t engage with the crowd, what’s the point? Watching Bill get off on stage is a perfect example of that. His charisma and his ability to connect is an amazing thing to behold.”

Murray’s involvement with the band began by chance last year when his younger brother, John Murray, invited Blood Brothers to play at The Murray Brothers’ Caddyshack Golf Tournament in Florida.

Bill joined the band for part of their set, performing songs by the Rascals, one of his favorite groups. Afterward, Zito suggested he join the group full-time, and Murray agreed.

The first official performance as Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers took place in Chicago this past January, where Murray first started his comedy career with the Second City troupe. Though he had briefly sung in a teenage rock band decades ago, this new project marks his return to performing music professionally.

Murray alternates lead vocals with the other band members and also plays percussion instruments like cowbell, congas, and tambourine. His previous musical endeavors include a 2017 collaboration with cellist Jan Vogler and violinist Mira Wang on the “New Worlds” tour, where he sang songs by the Gershwins and Stephen Foster while reciting poetry.

When asked what draws him to the music he performs with Blood Brothers, Murray said simply, “Lyrics. And the music with them adds that much more.”

Murray’s name on the marquee clearly draws audiences, but the actor emphasizes the collaborative nature of the band. “It’s not about me,” he explained. “It’s about the music and the energy we create together on stage.”

Bill Murray’s move into the music world shows that even decades into a legendary acting career, he’s willing to explore new creative paths. This blend of humor, charisma, and musical talent is proving to be a unique treat for fans of both his films and live music.

What do you think about Bill Murray fronting a blues-rock band? Share your thoughts in the comments.