Jeff Goldblum Reflects on “Floating on Air” Singing with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo

Jeff Goldblum shares his magical jazz journey collaborating with Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and more on his latest album and tour.

An Unexpected Jazz Journey with Ariana and Cynthia

When you think of Jeff Goldblum, the iconic screen presence from Jurassic Park and Independence Day probably pops into your mind first. But Goldblum has been living a vibrant "second life" as a jazz musician, and it's nothing short of enchanting. His new album Night Blooms, released on June 5, 2026, showcases this musical evolution, featuring his longtime band, The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, alongside fresh collaborations with none other than Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, two radiant stars from the hit musical Wicked.

Goldblum's voice blends playfully with Erivo’s on the classic tune “If I Only Had A Brain,” a track that captures the spirit of their chemistry both on screen and in the studio. Ariana Grande, who previously lent her voice to Goldblum’s 2025 album Still Blooming on “I Don’t Know Why (I Just Do),” joins again on Night Blooms adding her signature charm. The record also features collaborations with artists like Charlie Puth, Dodie, and Melody Gardot, making it a bouquet of extraordinary talents.

Behind the Scenes: From Set to Studio Magic

The connection between Goldblum, Grande, and Erivo was born in a heartwarming way. Before filming a single scene together for Wicked: For Good, they all gathered for a Thanksgiving dinner hosted by director Jon M. Chu. A piano took center stage, and Goldblum, always quick to share his musical passion, started playing. What followed was pure magic.

“They’re so masterfully gifted and accomplished that I was floating on air singing with them.” – Jeff Goldblum

On set, Goldblum confessed he couldn’t help but break into song between takes, singing jazz standards and Broadway tunes that both Ariana and Cynthia knew by heart. What started as casual singing soon turned into an invitation for them to join his album. Ariana shared a touching moment about the song “I Don’t Know Why (I Just Do),” revealing it was a childhood favorite sung by her grandfather. Cynthia found a deep connection with Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again,” which they recorded together for Still Blooming. These musical bonds brought them closer than expected, blending the worlds of acting and jazz music beautifully.

From Pittsburgh Cocktail Lounges to International Jazz Stages

Goldblum’s love affair with jazz didn't begin in Hollywood—it started in his teenage years in Pittsburgh. At just 15, he snuck into cocktail lounges to play piano gigs, already captivated by the world of jazz. Although acting initially took center stage in his career, music never left his life.

Even in his film roles, Goldblum found ways to weave in his musical passion. Whether it was a brief piano scene in The Fly or Earth Girls Are Easy, his dedication to music was always bubbling beneath the surface. It was in 1984, during the making of The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension, that his jazz bonds deepened with co-star Peter Weller. Weller, a jazz enthusiast himself, introduced Goldblum to legendary trumpeter Miles Davis. The advice was simple but profound: get a regular gig with true musicians to grow and have fun.

This advice blossomed into The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra—named after a family friend from Pittsburgh—and led to gigs at iconic venues like London’s Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and appearances at festivals including Glastonbury. Their breakout moment came when Goldblum jammed on The Graham Norton Show with Gregory Porter. A head of Decca Records in the audience invited him to record an album, sparking his journey as a recording jazz artist.

Collaborations with a Star-Studded Jazz Family

Goldblum has built a reputation for inviting a diverse roster of guest singers to join his jazz exploits, ranging from Gregory Porter to Miley Cyrus, Fiona Apple, Kelly Clarkson, Laufey, and Scarlett Johansson.

“I’ve had more and more fun and the albums have got better,” Goldblum says with a grin. “I think this is our best one and the bouquet of singers on this one is delightful.”

When it comes to choosing collaborators, Goldblum values not just talent, but the personalities behind the music:

“I’m just blessed and thrilled to work with these musicians who are nice people. Showbusiness types can have challenges, but I like hanging around with them. They’re the best around and seriously devoted to sophisticated music application, knowledge and continued development.”

For future dream duets, he’s got a growing wish list: Olivia Dean, who he recently honored at the BRIT Awards, Lady Gaga, and Jacob Collier all top his list. “We’ve got a lot!” he laughs.

A “Second Life” of Jazz and Creative Energy

Even at 73, Goldblum’s jazz pursuits are far from slowing down. In fact, he describes this musical career as a fulfilling “second life” that coexists harmoniously with his acting work.

“It changes my days. I love performing, I play every day, and it’s another kind of creative life. I want to be at my best.”

His approach to jazz mirrors his acting philosophy, deeply influenced by the teachings of Sanford Meisner. Being present in the moment, allowing the music and interactions to flow naturally—this, Goldblum explains, is the secret to authenticity in both crafts.

“Your uniqueness can come out best if you leave yourself alone, answer, exchange and connect with the people you’re making music with and for whom you’re making music.”

The Eccentric, Endearing Voice of Jazz

Goldblum’s unmistakable voice and quirky charm shine through in his music just as much as on screen. He embraces this uniqueness as part of his creative identity.

“They told me not to copy anybody, find your own voice, and realize that these characters are made up of something personal in you… When you hear Thelonious Monk or Bill Evans, right away you know it’s them. People are still blowing on the same horns and playing on the same keys, but one sensibility rhythmically and harmonically has a way of imprinting itself on music.”

He takes pride in bringing his own personality to every performance, singing songs as if acting them out—infusing them with a sense of storytelling and emotion. This humility and devotion to craft keep him evolving as an artist.

Catch Jeff Goldblum Live and Dive into ‘Night Blooms’

Night Blooms by Jeff Goldblum and The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra is out now—a delightful blend of jazz classics and fresh collaborations. Currently touring the UK and Europe, Goldblum’s headline show at London’s Royal Albert Hall on June 30 is a must-see for fans old and new.

Experience the charming blend of film star charisma and jazz passion that only Jeff Goldblum can deliver.

FAQ

• How did Jeff Goldblum start his jazz career?
  Goldblum’s love for jazz began as a teen playing cocktail lounge gigs. Though acting was his main career, he always kept music close, eventually forming The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra and recording albums.
• Who are some notable collaborators on Night Blooms?
  The album features Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Charlie Puth, Dodie, and Melody Gardot among others.
• What inspired Goldblum to work with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo?
  Their musical chemistry blossomed during the Wicked: For Good filming, starting with jam sessions at a Thanksgiving dinner and continued through shared love for jazz and Broadway classics.
• What is unique about Goldblum’s jazz style?
  He blends his distinctive voice and acting-style storytelling with classic jazz tunes, creating an intimate, character-driven musical experience.
• Where can I see Jeff Goldblum perform live?
  He is touring the UK and Europe, with notable upcoming shows like the June 30 headline concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Jeff Goldblum’s jazz by exploring his music and performances. If you’re as enchanted by his artistry as we are, why not bring a little of that magic home? Shop your favorite album cover poster at Architeg Prints and let the music inspire your space.