Ken Marino and David Wain have been creative collaborators for decades. Their friendship began at New York University, where they formed the comedy troupe The State. This group went on to have its own MTV series in the early ’90s. Over the years, they’ve worked together on projects like the cult-classic Wet Hot American Summer and many other TV shows and films. Marino is a familiar face on shows like Party Down, Children’s Hospital, and The Other Two.
Recently, the duo has taken their partnership to a new realm—music. They’ve formed an actual band, The Middle Aged Dad Jam Band (MADJB). With Marino as the frontman and Wain on drums, the band brings together friends, family, and co-workers to perform a wide range of covers. Their setlist includes everything from Schoolhouse Rock to Kiss, often featuring special guests like Kristen Bell, Thomas Lennon, Paul Rudd, and “Weird Al” Yankovic.
The band, which originated during the pandemic, has quickly gained a following on YouTube and in live performances. Some of their standout moments include a duet between Marino and Bell on “Islands in the Stream,” which has garnered nearly 2 million views on YouTube.
With upcoming shows at Comic Relief in New York City, Irving Plaza, and Los Angeles’ Lodge Room, as well as a New Year’s Eve event, MADJB is proving that their middle-aged rock ‘n’ roll dream is alive and well.
A Friendship Rooted in Music
Music has been a constant thread in Marino and Wain’s friendship since their college days.
“When we were doing The State, the show was filled with music cues we’d all collaborate on,” Marino explains.
Wain adds, “We were surrounded by music at NYU, particularly through my childhood friend Craig Wedren, who was already heavily involved in music.”
However, it wasn’t until the formation of MADJB that the two really explored music as a shared passion.
Their Comedy Roots at MTV
During their time with The State on MTV, music played a big role.
“Our show was very music-heavy because MTV wanted it that way,” Wain recalls. “But we weren’t rubbing elbows with rock stars—we were the oddballs on a music network.”
Marino laughs, adding, “We even did a sketch spoofing what it’d be like if rock stars were just casually hanging around MTV’s hallways.”
The Birth of MADJB
Like many pandemic-born hobbies, MADJB started organically.
“I had a garage with a drum set, and as the pandemic waned, I invited friends over to jam,” Wain says. “What began as casual jams turned into something more serious as we started learning specific songs.”
Marino, who had always loved singing, naturally became the band’s frontman.
“David’s always found ways to incorporate drumming into his work, but this time, he could fully commit,” Marino shares.
Early Musical Experiences
Both Marino and Wain had brushes with music before MADJB.
Wain reminisces about managing his childhood friend’s band in grade school, wearing sunglasses and calling himself “the manager.” He later joined a high school band and even formed a group to tour summer camps.
Marino’s musical journey was more informal, rooted in musical theater and karaoke. “Karaoke became a big part of my life with my wife,” he says. “We even built a soundproof karaoke room at home.”
The MADJB Experience
MADJB isn’t just about performing covers; it’s about making them their own.
“We honor the original songs but add our unique touch,” Marino explains. “It’s a mix of channeling the artist while putting our own spin on it.”
The band’s professionalism has impressed many, thanks to skilled members like Jon Spurney on keyboards, Jordan Katz on trumpet, and Allie Stamler on violin. “We’ve also learned so much from Craig Wedren about vocal harmonies,” Wain adds.
For Wain, drumming has been a personal journey. “I’ve played for years, but being in MADJB has pushed me to really understand the instrument.”
Musical Influences
When it comes to their tastes, Marino and Wain share a love for older music.
Wain says, “The ’80s were my formative years for music. I was in cover bands for R.E.M. and The Smiths.”
Marino’s influences include Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and Motown legends like Aretha Franklin and Sam Cooke. “Growing up on Long Island, Billy Joel was a staple,” he says.
The Comedy-Music Connection
Both Marino and Wain believe there’s a natural overlap between comedy and music.
“Every actor I know is either a musician or wishes they were,” Wain observes.
Marino agrees, adding, “A lot of us started in theater, which often involved singing. It’s a natural extension of performing.”
Conclusion
Ken Marino and David Wain’s Middle Aged Dad Jam Band is more than just a pandemic project—it’s a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the joy of music. With their blend of humor, talent, and passion, the duo proves that it’s never too late to rock out and have fun.
