20 actors who also happen to be musicians

Throughout the years, actors and musicians have enjoyed a very close and natural relationship with each other. We have seen many instances of legendary musicians taking up major roles in a movie. Sometimes, an actor will go ahead and explore his love for music. Most of these crossovers, involving these two worlds, happen during the early phases of struggle when the exchange of ideas is easier and commerciality is not the top priority. So here are 20 actors who also happen to be musicians.

1) Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp’s musical journey began long before his acting career took off. In the early 1980s, he was a guitarist for a band called The Kids, showing his love for rock music. Over the years, Depp kept his passion alive, playing guitar with iconic artists like Oasis and Marilyn Manson. In 2015, he co-founded Hollywood Vampires with Alice Cooper and Joe Perry, blending his guitar skills with some serious star power.

2) Scarlett Johansson

Anywhere I Lay My Head was the debut album released by Scarlett Johansson in 2008 and that marked the start of her musical career. Featuring dreamy covers of Tom Waits songs, her smoky, captivating voice created quite an impact. In 2009, she teamed up with Pete Yorn for Break Up, a duet album inspired by classic collaborations. Later, she formed The Singles, an indie-pop project. Though acting is her main gig, Scarlett’s music showcases her artistic versatility and passion.

3) Jared Leto

Jared Leto’s musical journey began in the late ’90s when he co-founded the rock band Thirty Seconds to Mars in 1998, where he serves as the lead vocalist. The band quickly gained a massive following with hits like The Kill and Closer to the Edge. Leto’s deep, powerful voice and passionate performances have made him a standout in the rock world. Alongside his acting career, his music continues to be a major part of his creative expression.

4) Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves is full of surprises. His musical journey started when he joined the alternative rock band Dogstar in 1991 as a bassist. He toured with the band for several years, gaining a loyal fan base. While Dogstar never reached massive commercial success, Keanu’s love for music was clear. After Dogstar, he continued to stay connected with music, and his time as a musician is proof of his versatility in the world of creativity.

5) Zooey Deschanel

Zooey Deschanel's musical journey began in the mid-2000s when she teamed up with M. Ward to form the indie pop duo She & Him in 2006. Zooey, who sings and plays piano, brought a vintage charm to their music, which blends folk, pop, and 60s-inspired sounds. Their albums, like Volume One and Classics, showcase her sweet voice and musical talent. Zooey’s music career with She & Him has earned her a dedicated fan following.

6) Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling’s musical journey started in the early 2000s when he formed the indie rock band Dead Man’s Bones with his friend Zach Shields in 2005. Gosling, who plays guitar, bass guitar, and piano, added his hauntingly smooth vocals to the band’s unique mix of rock and eerie, vintage-inspired sound. Their self-titled album was released in 2008, gaining a cult following. We all know him for his acting but honestly, three instruments along with vocals is a pretty difficult task.

7) Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx's musical journey began in the late '90s when he signed a record deal and released his debut album Peep This in 1994. Known for his powerful vocals, Foxx quickly gained attention with his smooth R&B sound. In 2005, he hit it big with his Grammy-winning album Unpredictable, featuring hits like Blame It. Foxx is also a talented pianist, often showcasing his skills in his music and live performances. His music career complements his acting, making him a true multi-talent.

8) Brie Larson

Out of P.E. was the debut album released by Brie Larson in 2005. Our very own Captain Marvel, as a pop singer, showcased her catchy tunes and youthful energy. While she’s widely known for her acting, particularly for her Oscar-winning role in Room, Brie’s music career had its moments in the spotlight. She also showcased her musical talent in the 2017 movie Free Fire, where her character's cool vibe had a musical touch.

9) Jack Black

To be honest, Jack Black gives more of a music vibe than an actor. Brilliant and extremely talented at both crafts, Black continued making music throughout his career. His musical journey took off in the late '90s when he formed the comedy rock duo Tenacious D with Kyle Gass. Known for his wild energy and comedic flair, Black plays guitar and provides vocals for the band. Tenacious D released their self-titled album in 2001, followed by more albums and even a movie in 2006. Black’s over-the-top performances have made him a rock-n-roll legend in his own right, combining humor with his genuine musical talent.

10) Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke’s musical talents are impressive. In 1996, the famous Before Sunrise actor formed the band The Pollens, where he played guitar and gave vocals. Though the band didn’t gain mainstream success, Hawke continued to explore his musical side. He has also contributed music to his films and showcased his talents in other artistic projects.

11) Robert Downey Jr.

Who could’ve imagined that our flamboyant Iron Man always had a passion for music? Robert Downey Jr.’s musical journey began in the late '90s when he showcased his talent as a singer and musician. He released his debut album, The Futurist, in 2004, where he blended jazz, pop, and rock influences with his smooth, soulful voice. He has also performed live and brought his love for music into his acting career, giving him a well-rounded creative presence.

12) Kiefer Sutherland

Kiefer Sutherland started his musical journey in the early 2000s by exploring his passion for country music. In 2009, he released his debut album, Down in a Hole, where he played guitar and showcased his deep, gravelly voice. Sutherland has since toured and performed at various venues, combining his love for music with his acting career. His sound blends classic country with a bit of rock, and his music offers a raw, authentic glimpse into his creative side.

13) Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith’s musical journey kicked off when she formed the metal band Wicked Wisdom in 2002. As the lead singer, Jada brought fierce energy to the band, playing a big role in blending metal with her unique style. The band performed at major festivals like Ozzfest, proving Jada isn’t just an actress but also a captivating musician. Her powerful vocals and passion for rock music show a different side of her creativity beyond acting.

14) Hugh Laurie

Hugh Laurie happens to be a talented pianist and guitarist, he’s been playing music since his college days in the late ’70s. Laurie has a deep love for blues and jazz, which led him to release his debut album Let Them Talk in 2011, followed by Didn’t It Rain in 2013. Both albums showcase his soulful voice and piano skills. He’s toured internationally, proving he’s as talented on stage as on screen. Well, it seems Dr. House is a few shades lighter if you hand him an instrument to play.

15) Anna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick’s musical journey kicked off in her childhood, as she honed her singing skills through theatre. She hit a high note in 2012 with her breakout performance in Pitch Perfect, where she not only sang but also popularized Cups, a viral hit that showcased her rhythm skills using just a cup. While she doesn’t play instruments professionally, her vocal talent shines in musicals like Into the Woods in 2014. Anna’s voice adds charm to her already vibrant acting career.

16) Bruce Willis

Bruce Willis started his musical journey in the late 1980s, showing off his love for blues and soul music. He’s a talented harmonica player and vocalist, and in 1987, he released his debut album The Return of Bruno, which even had a hit single, “Respect Yourself.” Bruce followed it up with more albums and performances, keeping music as a cool side hustle to his acting. His passion for live gigs and bluesy vibes makes his musical side just as fun as his action-packed career.

17) Russell Crowe

Russell Crowe’s musical journey started in the 1980s before his acting career took off. He formed a band called Roman Antix, which later evolved into the rock group 30 Odd Foot of Grunts in 1992. Crowe plays guitar and provides vocals, bringing his rugged charisma to the stage. After the group disbanded in 2005, he continued with a new band, The Ordinary Fear of God. Crowe’s music blends rock and storytelling, showing off his artistic versatility beyond the big screen.

18) Tom Felton

Yes, the pale and arrogant Draco Malfoy is quite charming with a guitar in his hand and a song in his head. He started sharing his music in the late 2000s by writing heartfelt, acoustic-driven songs. Felton has released several EPs, including Time Well Spent in 2008 and All I Need in 2021, where his soothing voice and personal lyrics stand out. Tom’s passion for music reveals another creative side to his artistic career.

19) Idris Elba

Idris Elba’s musical journey started long before he became a Hollywood star. In the early 2000s, he worked as a DJ under the name DJ Big Driis and has spun tracks at major clubs and festivals worldwide. He’s also a skilled producer and even dabbles in singing and rapping. In 2015, he released his EP Murdah Loves John, inspired by his role in Luther. Idris blends his love for acting and music seamlessly, proving he’s a creative powerhouse.

20) Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld’s musical journey kicked off after her acting success, with her debut single Love Myself in 2015. While she doesn’t play instruments on stage, her powerful voice became her signature. Following her debut, she released hit songs like Starving and Most Girls, showing she’s not just a one-hit wonder. Hailee also shined in Pitch Perfect 2 in 2015, where her singing skills got major attention. Balancing acting and music, she’s carved out a spot as a true multi-talent.