Jeff Goldblum embodies charm and grace perfectly. The internet adores his charismatic demeanor during interviews, often reversing the power dynamic to highlight the interviewee’s perspective. A recent reaction video to his red carpet moments confirmed that he has undeniable charisma.
During a Zoom call to his home in Florence, CLASH encounters a completely at-ease Goldblum. He is in the middle of signing albums, taking a moment to compare my sideburns to a character from M*A*S*H*, calling me a "younger, more handsome version" before cheerfully asking, “how are you? How’s everything?”
Once CLASH regains its composure, the conversation flows. Beyond being a celebrated actor known for his blend of mainstream success and indie film appeal, Jeff Goldblum is also a dedicated musician. This passion, especially for jazz and the Great American Songbook, has been a lifelong pursuit that he has turned into a decade-long side project. Through the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, he collaborates with top West Coast jazz talents while showcasing his own musical skills.
His debut album was released in 2019, and since then, he has gradually expanded his musical repertoire, gaining a dedicated fanbase along the way. His upcoming album, 'Still Blooming,' is a delightful listen that features collaborations with notable artists like Ariana Grande and Scarlett Johansson, making Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra a treat for the ears.
“The band is at its best,” he smiles. “And the vocalists on this album? How can I not be thrilled about that? I’m very, very excited!”
He emphasizes that each studio session serves as a meaningful lesson in musicianship. “They’re my mentors and teammates,” he asserts. “I dedicate every morning to the homework I've been assigned. Playing with them is incredible. They’re the best in the world.”
Music forms an essential part of his daily life. It is structured and methodical—almost meditative—integrated into his busy schedule as both an actor and father. “Every morning, I have my freshly squeezed orange juice, maybe some egg whites, oats, and mushrooms, followed by coffee, and I tackle my homework.”
Choosing the right songs from his extensive pool of talented musicians and the Great American Songbook can be tricky. Typically, he allows them to come into his life organically, using his tastes and serendipity as guides. “Each song has its own unique story,” he explains. “We choose collaboratively as a band. (Musical Director) Alex Frank is the creative genius behind it all.”
He offers an example with ‘The Best Is Yet To Come,’ a sophisticated rendition that moves between a bossa nova arrangement and a stunning performance by Scarlett Johansson. “During the premiere of Asteroid City,” he reminisces, “I was with Wes Anderson, and we started chatting with Scarlett. She mentioned she sings, and wanted to contribute. She suggested that song, and she came up with the bossa nova twist – she’s amazing!”
The album's opener, ‘I Don’t Know Why (I Just Do),’ features a fantastic vocal by Ariana Grande. Originally popularized by Dean Martin, the song gets a lush new interpretation from the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra. “While on the set of Wicked with those remarkable ladies, I found myself singing a few tunes as usual. We’d all known them, so we sang together after each take.
“When I started singing ‘The Best Is Yet To Come,’ Ariana asked why I was singing it. I told her it simply came to mind. She shared that her grandfather used to sing it to her often as a child. I thought, well, how perfect… we have these amazing vocalists, and we’re working on another album.”
More than just a side project, Goldblum’s pursuit of music is intricately linked to his creative endeavors. “The two worlds overlap,” he notes. With Wicked, he reflects, “there’s high anticipation and a significant investment. Every day features exceptional talent. You aim to realize dreams, which is thrilling but intense. Within that space, you have to find joy, freedom, and a personal connection with your own magic while sharing that with others.”
“Acting intertwines with music,” he explains. “It begins for me from a genuine place of enjoyment. There’s no pressure to create a career from it.”
Nevertheless, the past ten years have seen significant success for Goldblum as a musician. He has played at esteemed jazz clubs and numerous festivals. CLASH reminds him that he has even performed for the Queen. “Those experiences are exhilarating,” he reflects, “it’s growth and learning. But ultimately, it remains fun! It fosters meaningful connections and joyful experiences.”
Working from their own studio—which Goldblum playfully refers to as their “hobby shop”—he is industrious. One album is set for release, and the Mildred Sn
The musician and actress will perform at several festivals this Summer, in addition to headlining shows in London and Belfast.
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Jeff Goldblum embodies charm and is the very personification of grace. The online community is captivated by his charismatic style in interviews, often turning to him with admiration.