Plenty of celebrities have tried to cross over from acting to music, but only a few actors who became musicians actually found genuine success. These stars honed their musical skills, released original work, and earned respect in both industries. Whether it’s chart-topping hits, cult-favorite albums, or festival appearances, these 10 actors turned musicians proved their talent runs deep.
10. Steve Martin
While Steve Martin is known for his comedic genius, he’s also an accomplished banjo player. His bluegrass albums with The Steep Canyon Rangers have earned Grammys and critical acclaim. Martin is a standout among actors who became musicians.
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9. Jennifer Lopez
From Selena to On the 6, Jennifer Lopez juggled both acting and music. Her pop and Latin hits, including “Jenny From the Block” and “Let’s Get Loud,” have become cultural staples. Few actors who became musicians can match her longevity and influence in both arenas.
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8. Janelle Monáe
Though known more recently for her powerful film roles in Hidden Figures and Glass Onion, Janelle Monáe began her career in music, and continues to work hard in both worlds. Her funk-infused albums like Dirty Computer and The Age of Pleasure highlight her genre-defying sound and bold storytelling, making her one of the most boundary-breaking actors who became musicians.
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7. Jamie Foxx
Jamie Foxx’s R&B credentials are often overshadowed by his acting works, but he’s a Grammy-winning artist who’s collaborated with Kanye West, T-Pain, and Ne-Yo. His smooth voice and soulful delivery shine on hits like “Unpredictable” and “Blame It.” As one of the most multi-talented actors who became musicians, Foxx’s music career speaks volumes.
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6. Hailee Steinfeld
Hailee Steinfeld earned an Oscar nomination at 14 for True Grit, but her music career is nothing to overlook. With catchy pop anthems like “Love Myself” and collaborations with DNCE and Grey, Steinfeld has steadily built a music resume that holds its own.
5. Drake
Before becoming one of the most-streamed artists of all time, Drake was known as Jimmy Brooks on Degrassi: The Next Generation. Once he pivoted to music, he quickly became a dominant force in hip-hop and pop, blending emotional lyricism with commercial appeal.
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4. Zooey Deschanel
Best known for New Girl and 500 Days of Summer, Zooey Deschanel’s soft vocals took center stage with her folk-pop duo She & Him. Alongside M. Ward, Deschanel released several albums full of retro-inspired tracks. Her whimsical tone and songwriting skills make her one of the quieter but well-respected actors who became musicians.
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3. Miley Cyrus
Although she was introduced to many as Hannah Montana, Miley Cyrus quickly outgrew the Disney mold. Her genre-hopping albums and constant reinvention have made her one of the most prominent actors who became musicians. With hits like “Wrecking Ball” and “Flowers,” Cyrus carved out her own edgy pop identity and earned critical acclaim along the way.
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2. Donald Glover
Donald Glover blurred the lines between art forms when he transformed into Childish Gambino. A brilliant writer, actor, and comedian, Glover’s music career skyrocketed with hits like “Redbone” and the socially charged “This Is America,” which won multiple Grammys.
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1. Jared Leto
As the frontman of Thirty Seconds to Mars, Jared Leto is one of the most successful actors who became musicians. While already an acclaimed Oscar-winning actor, Leto’s emo-alt-rock band has sold millions of records and performed at global festivals. His intense stage presence and passionate vocals have gained a loyal fanbase.
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