You know passion fuels the fire when a drastic move like changing your name by deed poll to that of your idol takes place.

Well that's exactly what tribute act Joliet Jake and Elwood Blues did when they received a letter from the management of the original Blues Brothers demanding they stopped using the names.

Jake said: "I'm too stubborn, and when someone says I can't do something, then that's exactly what I'll do."

And up until a few years ago, when national security was tightened, the duo were the only people in the country who had passport and driving licences photos with them donning the signature Blues Brothers shades.

So if you're a Blues Brother fan then it looks like this Jake and Elwood really are the next best thing.

Before taking their tour to Israel this week, where they were not only scheduled to entertain crowds of fans live but also appear on national TV, the duo stopped off in Sunderland ahead of their show later this month.

And true to form and never wanting to let down the fans, they turned up at the Empire in an authentic American cop car, dressed in black suits with their trademark shades and hats.

"It's a bit strange going over to Israel," Jake said. "We're not sure what to expect.

"They've asked us if we can arrive dressed as Jake and Elwood because they're going to pick us up straight from the airport to go and do a performance with an Israeli band for the TV."

The twosome are hoping the trip will fuel their already heaving fanbase across the globe.

They're already seen as national treasures in Poland where they find themselves mobbed by fans every time they hit the stage.

"We do a lot of work in Poland and when we did our last gig there last year they had to put barriers up," Jake said.

"They don't have tribute acts in Poland so I think they think we're the real thing."

Jake first started paying tribute to his heroes in 1988 when he launched his own Blues Brother show.

Elwood joined the ranks 13 years ago, and since then the duo have been taking the world by storm.

Jake, who has been playing the harmonica since he was seven, said: "I saw the film as a kid and I just loved the music. It was brilliant.

"I got bought a harmonica for Christmas along with the Blues Brothers album and that was it.

"I've had such an amazing time doing this. It's like a dream for me."
Despite performing across the world their dream is still to be heard by Dan Aykroyd.

"I would love for Dan to see the show and hear what he's got to say about it," Elwood said.

"That would really be it."

Joining Jake and Elwood on stage is The Black Rhino Band, who have recorded and toured across the world with artists including Junior Walker and the Moody Blues.

For an evening that captures the true spirit of the two greats, head to the Sunderland Empire for Jake and Elwood the Best Blues Brothers show in the World... Ever on Saturday, May 30.

Tickets are £21.50 and can be bought by phoning 0844 847 2499 or visit www.sunderlandempire.org.uk.

For more information about Jake and Elwood, visit www.jakeandelwood.co.uk