Since 1996, Dan Meisner of Kingston, NY, has been entertaining thousands of Legends in Concert guests as Jake Blues in venues across Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, and Atlantic City.
Dan began his performance journey at Emerson College in Boston, where he was part of the school’s Comedy Workshop. His comedic chops were further sharpened with time spent at Chicago’s legendary Second City. In 1990, he moved to Orlando, FL to help launch Universal Studios, where a career highlight awaited—performing for the original Elwood Blues himself, Dan Aykroyd, and John Belushi’s brother, Jim Belushi. “Performing for the originals and their relatives was the toughest audience in the world because they have only the originals to compare you to,” Dan recalls. Fortunately, both Aykroyd and Belushi loved the show and honored the cast by signing their Bluesmobile—the highest compliment they could give.
Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Kenny Barrett grew up in a household where music was a constant presence. As a child, he idolized artists like Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, and Frank Sinatra—mimicking their moves and vocal stylings from an early age. He became the lead singer in several local bands, showcasing a remarkable vocal range that spanned blues, standards, and rock and roll.
In 1988, Kenny moved to Hollywood, CA to pursue a career in film as an actor and stuntman. His credits include memorable roles in Sidekicks with Chuck Norris and For the Boys with Bette Midler. While his screen career was fulfilling, he never lost his passion for live stage performance. That passion led him to Legends in Concert, where he stepped into the iconic role of Elwood Blues—a fitting tribute to one of his real-life Chicago heroes.
Kenny was quickly cast in Legends venues around the world, including on cruise ships and international stages. In 1996, he relocated to Myrtle Beach, where he held a remarkable 14-year residency (1996–2010) at Legends’ Surfside Beach location, becoming a crowd favorite with returning audiences.
Now, after more than two decades, Kenny is thrilled to reunite with his former stage partner, Dan Meisner, for the first time since 2000. Their dynamic blend of comedy and blues remains as timeless as ever.
“The Blues Brothers™ is a registered trademark owned by Dan Aykroyd and Judy Belushi.”