7 actors we didn’t know were also musicians
The way we see it, you’re lucky if you get one talent in life. For these stars, one simply isn’t enough. Proving lightning can strike twice, we take a look at some of the most unexpected actors turned musicians.
Steve Martin
The 70-year-old is beloved for his comedic performances in films such as Three Amigos, Planes, Trains and Automobiles and Cheaper by the Dozen, but did you know Martin is also an accomplished musician? After picking up the banjo at the age of 17, Martin collaborated with many bluegrass bands and earned a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance in 2002.
Gwyneth Paltrow
The much talk-talked about actress and founder of lifestyle website Goop has experienced success not only in the film industry, but also as a singer. She first showcased her talents in the 2000 film Duets, which produced the chart-topping cover of Smokey Robinson’s “Cruisin’” with Huey Lewis. The song went two times platinum in Australia. Paltrow, 43, has since performed on the musical series Glee.
Russell Crowe
A man of many talents, 52-year-old Crowe released his first song “I Want to Be Like Marlon Brando” in the ‘80s under the stage name “Russ le Roq”. The singer and guitarist then joined the band 30 Odd Foot of Grunts (formerly “Roman Antix”), with whom he released three albums before moving on to focus on acting. He has since collaborated with bands The Ordinary Fear of God and Great Big Sea. He combined his two loves in the 2012 musical film Les Miserables, playing Javert.
Bruce Willis
One of the greatest action heroes to grace the silver screen, 61-year-old Bruce Willis enjoyed success as a singer in the 1980s with the song “Respect Yourself”, which peaked at number 5 on the US charts. The single was part of his pop / R & B album called The Return of Bruno. Don’t believe us? Click here to take a listen.
Jada Pinkett Smith
Will Smith is well-known for his successful film and music career, and it seems wife Jada was keen to follow in the footsteps of her hubby. Using the name “Jada Koren”, Smith formed a metal band in 2002 called Wicked Wisdom, where she performs lead vocals. Their debut album peaked at number 44 on the charts and received above average reviews. She continues to tour with the band today.
William Shatner
The 85-year-old’s music career is something of a joke among Internet users, but Shatner did experience a decent amount of success as a singer/spoken word artist. His first album The Transformed Man was released in 1968 and features spoken-word covers of songs like “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” and “Rocket Man”. He has released four studio albums and continues to showcase his distinctive voice today.
Jamie Foxx
At 48, Foxx has had an illustrious film career, winning an Oscar for his performance as Ray Charles in Ray and receiving countless other award nominations. However, the actor has also dabbled in music, even winning a Grammy Award for his R & B hit “Blame It” in 2010. He has released an impressive five studio albums, of which two have gone platinum, and has collaborated with dozens of other artists.
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