Famous Actors Who Are Actually Accomplished Musicians on the Side

Many stars in the entertainment industry possess hidden talents that extend far beyond their work in front of a camera. While audiences recognize these men for their iconic roles in movies and television programs they often spend their personal time performing on stage. These performers have released albums toured the world and even won prestigious awards for their musical contributions. The transition between acting and music requires a high level of discipline and creative versatility. This list highlights prominent actors who have established legitimate careers as musicians alongside their professional acting work.

Jared Leto

Jared Leto is widely recognized for his performance in ‘Dallas Buyers Club’ and other major film projects. Outside of his acting career he serves as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for the rock band Thirty Seconds to Mars. The group has released several successful albums and maintains a massive global following through extensive touring schedules. Leto has balanced his high profile film roles with a serious commitment to the music industry for over two decades. His dedication to both crafts has made him a rare example of a dual threat talent in the industry.

Steve Martin

Steve Martin is a comedy legend known for films like ‘The Jerk’ and his work on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He is also a highly accomplished banjo player who has won multiple awards for his bluegrass music. Martin frequently tours with the Steep Canyon Rangers and has released several acclaimed albums within the genre. His musical skill is often integrated into his live performances and stage shows. He has even written a musical called ‘Bright Star’ which premiered on Broadway.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover achieved mainstream success with his role in ‘Community’ and his award winning series ‘Atlanta’. Under the stage name Childish Gambino he has built a massive career as a rapper singer and producer. His single titled ‘This Is America’ became a cultural phenomenon and earned him several Grammy Awards. Glover manages to navigate the worlds of television film and music with equal levels of critical acclaim. He is considered one of the most versatile artists working in modern entertainment.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves is a major action star famous for his roles in ‘The Matrix’ and the ‘John Wick’ franchise. During the nineties and early two thousands he played bass guitar for an alternative rock band called Dogstar. The band toured extensively and released two studio albums before taking a long hiatus from the industry. Reeves recently reunited with his bandmates to perform live and record new musical material. His passion for the bass guitar has remained a constant element of his life outside of film sets.

Jeff Goldblum

Jeff Goldblum has a long history of starring in blockbuster films such as ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Independence Day’. He is also a skilled jazz pianist who leads a group known as The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra. The ensemble performs regularly at venues in Los Angeles and has released several studio recordings. Goldblum brings his unique personality and improvisational style to every musical performance. He often interacts with the audience during his sets to create a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx won an Academy Award for his portrayal of a legendary musician in the film ‘Ray’. He has also established a successful career as a solo recording artist with several hit singles on the music charts. His album titled ‘Unpredictable’ reached the top of the Billboard charts and earned multiple nominations. Foxx has collaborated with many famous artists in the R and B and hip hop genres. He continues to balance his work in major motion pictures with his passion for producing and performing music.

Hugh Laurie

Hugh Laurie is best known for his portrayal of the titular character in the medical drama ‘House’. In addition to his acting he is an accomplished blues and jazz musician who plays the piano and guitar. He has released two successful albums that showcase his talent for interpreting classic American roots music. Laurie has toured internationally with his band to support his musical releases. His deep appreciation for the blues genre is evident in his soulful vocal performances and intricate instrumental work.

Jack Black

Jack Black is a comedic actor famous for movies like ‘School of Rock’ and ‘Nacho Libre’. He is one half of the satirical rock duo Tenacious D alongside his musical partner Kyle Gass. The band has released several studio albums and even starred in their own feature film. Tenacious D is known for blending theatrical rock music with humorous lyrics and high energy performances. Black frequently showcases his powerful vocal range and guitar skills during live concerts around the world.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba has earned critical acclaim for his roles in ‘The Wire’ and ‘Luther’. Away from the screen he is a prominent DJ and producer who performs at major festivals and clubs under the name Big Driis. He has released several EPs and collaborated with various artists in the electronic and hip hop scenes. Elba even performed a DJ set at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. His musical interests span many genres including house music and reggae.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling is a celebrated actor known for his work in ‘La La Land’ and ‘Drive’. He is also a member of the indie rock duo Dead Man’s Bones which he formed with his friend Zach Shields. The band released a self titled concept album that features a collaboration with a children’s choir. Their music is known for its haunting atmosphere and themes related to monsters and the supernatural. Gosling contributed vocals as well as piano and guitar parts to the project.

Kevin Bacon

Kevin Bacon is an industry veteran with a massive filmography including ‘Footloose’ and ‘Mystic River’. For nearly thirty years he has performed alongside his brother Michael in a band called The Bacon Brothers. The duo has released numerous albums that blend elements of folk rock and country music. They tour regularly and have built a dedicated fan base independent of Kevin’s acting career. The brothers often write their own songs and share vocal duties during their live shows.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp is known for his eccentric roles in films such as ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and ‘Edward Scissorhands’. He is a founding member of the rock supergroup Hollywood Vampires which includes Alice Cooper and Joe Perry. Depp plays slide rhythm and lead guitar for the band during their worldwide tours. He has also collaborated with various legendary musicians on studio recordings and live performances over the decades. His background in music actually predates his career as a professional actor.

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. became a global superstar through his role as Tony Stark in ‘Iron Man’. Many fans may not know that he released a studio album titled ‘The Futurist’ in the early two thousands. The record features several songs written by the actor and showcases his skills as a singer and pianist. Downey has also contributed music to the soundtracks of some of his films like ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’. While he focuses primarily on acting his musical talent remains a notable part of his artistic profile.

Michael Cera

Michael Cera is famous for his roles in ‘Superbad’ and the television series ‘Arrested Development’. He is a talented multi instrumentalist who has played bass for the indie rock band Mister Heavenly. Cera also released a solo lo fi folk album titled ‘True That’ which he shared on an online platform. He often contributes musical performances to the projects he works on as an actor. His understated musical style mirrors the awkward and endearing characters he often portrays on screen.

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac has starred in major productions such as ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’. Before his acting career took off he was the lead singer and guitarist for a ska punk band called The Blinking Underdogs. He demonstrated his genuine musical ability by performing all of his own songs in ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’. Isaac continues to play guitar and sing in various informal settings and special performances. His musical background often informs his approach to rhythmic and melodic dialogue in his acting roles.

Common

Common is an Academy Award winning actor who has appeared in films like ‘Selma’ and ‘John Wick Chapter 2’. He began his career as a highly respected rapper in the underground hip hop scene during the early nineties. Over the years he has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and won several Grammy Awards. Common often uses his music to address social issues and promote positive messages. He successfully balances a high profile film career with his ongoing work as a major figure in the music industry.

Penn Badgley

Penn Badgley rose to fame for his roles in ‘Gossip Girl’ and the hit series ‘You’. He is the frontman of the Brooklyn based indie pop band MOTHXR. The group has released a full length album and toured across the United States and Europe. Badgley provides lead vocals and contributes to the electronic soundscapes that define the band’s style. He has expressed that music allows him to explore a different form of creative expression away from his television characters.

Jason Schwartzman

Jason Schwartzman is a frequent collaborator with director Wes Anderson and starred in ‘Rushmore’. Before his acting career began he was the drummer for the rock band Phantom Planet. After leaving the band he started a solo musical project called Coconut Records. He has released several indie pop albums that feature catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics. Schwartzman often composes music for film and television soundtracks as well.

Kiefer Sutherland

Kiefer Sutherland is best known for his role as Jack Bauer in the thriller series ’24’. He has also pursued a serious career as a country music artist with multiple studio albums to his credit. Sutherland tours extensively with his band and performs at various music festivals around the world. His music is characterized by its gritty vocals and honest storytelling style. He has stated that performing music offers him a more personal connection with his audience than acting.

Russell Crowe

Russell Crowe is an Academy Award winner famous for his performances in ‘Gladiator’ and ‘A Beautiful Mind’. He has been involved in music for many years and led the band 30 Odd Foot of Grunts. Later he formed another group called The Ordinary Fear of God and released more music. Crowe performs as a vocalist and guitarist and frequently tours when his filming schedule permits. His musical style often incorporates elements of rock and folk with personal lyrics.

Dennis Quaid

Dennis Quaid has had a long and successful film career with movies like ‘The Right Stuff’ and ‘The Parent Trap’. He is also the frontman for a rock band known as Dennis Quaid and The Sharks. The group has been performing together for decades and plays a mix of original songs and classic covers. Quaid is known for his high energy stage presence and guitar skills during live shows. He released a studio album with the band to showcase their unique brand of rock and roll.

Billy Bob Thornton

Billy Bob Thornton is an acclaimed actor and filmmaker known for ‘Sling Blade’ and ‘Bad Santa’. He is a passionate musician who has released several solo albums in the Americana and country genres. Thornton is also a member of the rockabilly band The Boxmasters which he formed in two thousand seven. The band has released over a dozen albums and maintains a busy touring schedule. He often writes lyrics that reflect his experiences growing up in the American South.

Riz Ahmed

Riz Ahmed is an award winning actor known for ‘Sound of Metal’ and ‘The Night Of’. He is also a prominent rapper and spoken word artist who performs under the name Riz MC. Ahmed is a member of the hip hop group Swet Shop Boys which addresses cultural and political themes. He has released solo music that explores his identity and social issues through intricate lyrics. His musical work has received significant critical praise for its depth and technical skill.

Will Smith

Will Smith became a household name through ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel Air’ before becoming a global movie star. He started his career as one half of the hip hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince. Smith has won several Grammy Awards for his solo music and group collaborations. He has released numerous hit singles that have topped the music charts worldwide. Although he focuses heavily on film he occasionally returns to music for special projects and performances.

Ludacris

Ludacris is a famous actor who has appeared in the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise and the film ‘Crash’. He is primarily known as one of the most successful rappers of the early two thousands. With multiple multi platinum albums and Grammy Awards he is a major figure in the music industry. Ludacris continues to release new music and collaborate with other prominent artists. He has successfully transitioned between being a top tier musician and a sought after actor in Hollywood.

David Duchovny

David Duchovny is widely recognized for his roles in ‘The X Files’ and ‘Californication’. In recent years he has developed a secondary career as a singer and songwriter. He has released several studio albums that lean into the folk and alternative rock genres. Duchovny tours with a full band and performs at various intimate venues across the globe. He often writes introspective lyrics that draw from his literary background and personal observations.

Jeremy Renner

Jeremy Renner is known for his portrayal of Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and films like ‘The Hurt Locker’. He is also a singer and songwriter who plays the piano guitar and drums. Renner has released several EPs that feature a modern rock sound with powerful vocals. His music has been featured in advertising campaigns and on film soundtracks. He has described music as his first love and continues to produce new material between acting roles.

Finn Wolfhard

Finn Wolfhard rose to prominence as Mike Wheeler in the hit series ‘Stranger Things’. He was the lead vocalist and guitarist for the indie rock band Calpurnia before they disbanded. Following that project he formed a new duo called The Aubreys and released more music. Wolfhard has performed at major music festivals and appeared in music videos for other artists. His work in the music industry showcases a mature sound that complements his acting career.

Joe Keery

Joe Keery is a fan favorite for his role as Steve Harrington in ‘Stranger Things’. Under the moniker Djo he has released critically acclaimed psychedelic pop albums. Before his solo success he was a member of the Chicago based psych rock band Post Animal. Keery plays multiple instruments and produces much of his own musical content. His music has gained a significant following on streaming platforms due to its unique sound and production quality.

Michael Shannon

Michael Shannon is a highly respected actor known for his intense roles in ‘Boardwalk Empire’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. He is the frontman and primary songwriter for the indie rock band Corporal. The band released a self titled album and has performed at various venues in New York and Chicago. Shannon provides vocals and plays guitar for the group which features a gritty and experimental sound. His musical output allows him to explore different creative themes outside of his film characters.

Craig Robinson

Craig Robinson is a comedic actor best known for his role in ‘The Office’ and films like ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’. He is a classically trained musician who often plays the keyboard in his television and film appearances. Robinson leads a band called The Nasty Delicious which blends funk soul and comedy. The group performs live shows that feature musical parodies and high energy instrumental sets. His musical talent is a central part of his comedic persona and professional life.

Ansel Elgort

Ansel Elgort gained fame for his roles in ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ and ‘Baby Driver’. He is also a singer and electronic music producer who performs under the name Ansolo. Elgort has signed with major record labels and performed at large electronic dance music festivals. He has released several singles that showcase his vocal ability and production skills. His work as a DJ and musician remains a significant part of his public identity alongside his acting.

Adam Sandler

Adam Sandler is a massive comedy star known for films like ‘Happy Gilmore’ and ‘The Wedding Singer’. He frequently incorporates music into his stand up comedy specials and feature films. Sandler is an accomplished guitar player and singer who has released several comedy albums. His musical performances often blend humor with heartfelt sentiments about his life and family. He continues to tour and perform musical comedy for audiences around the world.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard is an Academy Award nominated actor known for ‘Hustle and Flow’ and the series ‘Empire’. He released a debut urban country album titled ‘Shine Through It’ in two thousand eight. Howard wrote and produced many of the tracks on the record which features a mix of genres. He is a self taught musician who plays both the guitar and the piano. His musical background helped him deliver an authentic performance in his music centric acting roles.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a legendary comedian and actor known for ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and his time on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He had a successful musical career in the eighties with the hit single ‘Party All the Time’. Murphy has released several studio albums and collaborated with icons like Michael Jackson. His music ranges from pop and R and B to reggae and soul. He continues to record music in his private studio and occasionally releases new tracks for his fans.

Tim Robbins

Tim Robbins is an Academy Award winning actor and director known for ‘The Shawshank Redemption’. He is also a musician who fronted a band called Tim Robbins and The Rogues Gallery Band. The group released an album that features folk and roots music with a political edge. Robbins plays the guitar and provides vocals for the ensemble during their live performances. He has stated that music is a vital way for him to tell stories and connect with people.

Christopher Guest

Christopher Guest is a filmmaker and actor famous for mockumentaries like ‘This Is Spinal Tap’. He is a talented multi instrumentalist who performed as Nigel Tufnel in the fictional band Spinal Tap. Guest also played a central role in the folk music parody film ‘A Mighty Wind’ and performed on the soundtrack. He is a skilled guitar and banjo player who has a deep understanding of various musical traditions. His musical expertise allows him to create authentic and hilarious parodies of different genres.

Harry Connick Jr.

Harry Connick Jr. is an actor who has appeared in films like ‘Hope Floats’ and ‘Independence Day’. He is primarily famous for his incredible career as a jazz pianist and big band singer. Connick has sold millions of albums and won multiple Grammy Awards for his musical work. He also has a successful career on Broadway as both a performer and a composer. He is one of the few artists who has maintained top level success in both the film and music industries simultaneously.

Guy Pearce

Guy Pearce is a versatile actor known for his roles in ‘Memento’ and ‘L.A. Confidential’. He is also a singer and songwriter who has released several solo studio albums. Pearce plays multiple instruments and produces music that fits within the alternative pop and rock genres. He has been writing and recording music since his youth in Australia. His musical work provides a more personal and introspective look at his creative mind.

Rick Springfield

Rick Springfield is an actor known for his role on ‘General Hospital’ and various film appearances. He is even more famous as a rock star with a string of hit singles including ‘Jessie’s Girl’. Springfield has released numerous gold and platinum albums throughout his long career in the music industry. He continues to tour the world and perform for thousands of fans every year. He has successfully navigated the challenges of being a teen idol to become a respected veteran in both acting and music.

LL Cool J

LL Cool J is a prominent actor known for his long running role on ‘NCIS Los Angeles’. He is a pioneer of the hip hop genre and was one of the first rappers to achieve mainstream success. With a career spanning decades he has released many influential albums and won several Grammy Awards. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his significant contributions to music. LL Cool J continues to balance his television career with his legacy as a legendary musician.

Ice Cube

Ice Cube is a celebrated actor and filmmaker known for ‘Friday’ and ‘Boyz n the Hood’. He gained initial fame as a member of the influential rap group N.W.A before launching a successful solo career. His music is known for its hard hitting social commentary and storytelling. Ice Cube has released multiple platinum albums and is considered one of the greatest rappers of all time. He remains active in the music scene while producing and starring in major motion pictures.

John C. Reilly

John C. Reilly is a versatile actor known for both comedic and dramatic roles in films like ‘Step Brothers’ and ‘Chicago’. He is a dedicated musician who performs with his band John Reilly and Friends. The group focuses on traditional American folk and bluegrass music. Reilly provides lead vocals and plays the guitar during their live shows and recordings. His passion for roots music is a significant aspect of his artistic life outside of his film work.

Gaten Matarazzo

Gaten Matarazzo is widely known for his role as Dustin Henderson in the series ‘Stranger Things’. He is a talented singer who has performed on Broadway in productions like ‘Les Miserables’. Matarazzo is also the lead singer for the seven piece rock band Work in Progress. The band performs a variety of covers and original songs at various venues and events. His vocal talent has been a key part of his career since he was a young performer.

Caleb Landry Jones

Caleb Landry Jones is an actor known for his unique performances in ‘Get Out’ and ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri’. He is also a prolific musician who has released several experimental rock albums. His music is characterized by its eclectic sound and complex arrangements. Jones plays multiple instruments and records much of his work in his home studio. He views his musical projects as a primary form of creative output alongside his acting roles.

Please share your favorite actor who also makes music in the comments.