Black Actors You Didn’t Know Are Incredible Musicians

Many talented performers in Hollywood possess artistic abilities that extend far beyond their work in front of the camera. The entertainment industry is filled with black male actors who are also gifted singers, rappers, and instrumentalists with impressive musical careers. These individuals often balance filming schedules with recording sessions or live performances that showcase their versatility. While some have won awards for their music, others pursue it as a passionate hobby that allows them to express themselves differently. This list explores the fascinating musical sides of celebrated actors who command the screen and the stage alike.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba is widely recognized for his intense roles in ‘The Wire’ and ‘Luther’ but has a thriving secondary career in music. He performs internationally as a DJ under the name DJ Big Driis and has released his own EPs. The actor has collaborated with major artists like Macklemore and Anderson .Paak on various tracks. Elba also raps and sings with a gritty style that complements his deep voice. He frequently showcases his skills at massive festivals such as Coachella and Glastonbury.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard proved he could perform as a rapper in the film ‘Hustle & Flow’ but his musical talents go much deeper. He is an accomplished singer and songwriter who released an alternative folk album titled Shine in 2008. Howard plays the guitar and writes lyrics that reflect his personal philosophies and life experiences. His music features a unique blend of acoustic sounds and spanish guitar influences. He considers composition to be a vital part of his overall artistic expression.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali is a two-time Oscar winner known for his dramatic depth in films like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’. Before his acting career skyrocketed, he was a rapper signed to the Bay Area label Hieroglyphics Imperium. Ali recorded and performed under the name Prince Ali and released an album titled Curb Side Service in 2007. His hip hop tracks feature smooth lyricism and thoughtful storytelling that mirror his approach to acting. He continues to maintain a deep appreciation for the culture and craft of hip hop.

Jacob Anderson

Fans of ‘Game of Thrones’ know Jacob Anderson as the stoic warrior Grey Worm. The British actor has a completely different persona in the music world where he performs as Raleigh Ritchie. His sound is a mix of alternative R&B and pop with vulnerable and honest lyrics. He has released acclaimed albums like You’re a Man Now, Boy and Andy that have garnered a dedicated following. Anderson writes his own songs and uses music to explore themes of anxiety and adulthood.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Malcolm-Jamal Warner became a household name as a child actor but has since evolved into a serious musician. He is a bass player and a spoken word poet who leads the band Miles Long. His work fuses jazz, funk, and poetry into a socially conscious and rhythmic performance art. Warner won a Grammy Award for Traditional R&B Performance in 2015 for his contribution to a Robert Glasper track. He tours regularly and uses his music to address complex social issues.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover creates a clear separation between his acting roles in shows like ‘Atlanta’ and his musical persona Childish Gambino. He started as a writer and comedian but quickly established himself as a dominant force in hip hop and funk. His hit song This Is America won four Grammy Awards and sparked global conversation. Glover sings, raps, and produces his own tracks with a diverse range of sonic influences. He has successfully conquered both television and the music industry simultaneously.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx is one of the few entertainers who has reached the pinnacle of success in both acting and music. He won an Academy Award for playing Ray Charles in ‘Ray’ and has released several platinum-selling R&B albums. Foxx is a classically trained pianist who can play complex arrangements with ease. His hit singles have topped the Billboard charts and feature collaborations with huge stars like Kanye West. He seamlessly integrates his musicality into his comedy and acting projects.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a legendary comedian who enjoyed a significant music career during the height of his fame. He scored a massive pop hit in the eighties with the song Party All the Time which was produced by Rick James. Murphy sings with a surprisingly strong vocal range and has released multiple albums over the decades. He continues to record reggae music and released a single called Oh Jah Jah in 2015. His musical endeavors demonstrate a serious passion that goes beyond mere novelty.

Rotimi

Rotimi is well known for his role as Dre on the hit series ‘Power’ where he played a major antagonist. He is also a successful R&B singer who has released several projects and toured internationally. His music blends contemporary R&B with Afrobeat influences that honor his Nigerian heritage. Rotimi has collaborated with artists like 50 Cent and Wale on popular singles. He has managed to build a legitimate music fanbase independent of his television fame.

Leslie Odom Jr.

Leslie Odom Jr. exploded onto the scene with his Tony-winning performance in the musical ‘Hamilton’. He is a gifted jazz and pop vocalist who has released several solo albums including a Christmas record. His smooth voice is perfectly enhancing for both theatrical tunes and original ballads. Odom Jr. also wrote and performed the Oscar-nominated song Speak Now for the film ‘One Night in Miami’. His career perfectly illustrates the bridge between acting prowess and vocal virtuosity.

Luke James

Luke James is a soulful singer who has earned Grammy nominations for his powerful R&B performances. He transitioned into acting with impressive roles in ‘The Chi’ and ‘Star’. James possesses an incredible vocal range that allows him to hit soaring falsettos and convey deep emotion. He continues to release music that pushes the boundaries of the genre while pursuing complex characters on screen. His dual talents make him a dynamic threat in the entertainment world.

Trevor Jackson

Trevor Jackson started his career as a child actor and has grown into a leading man in shows like ‘Grown-ish’. He is also a singer and songwriter who draws inspiration from classic entertainers like Michael Jackson and Gregory Hines. Jackson plays the guitar and produces much of his own music. His albums feature a mix of R&B and pop that highlight his smooth vocals and dance ability. He views his music and acting as two sides of the same creative coin.

Jacob Latimore

Jacob Latimore has been working in the entertainment industry since he was a young child. He stars in the drama ‘The Chi’ and has appeared in major films like ‘The Maze Runner’. Latimore is an R&B singer who has released multiple albums and mixtapes throughout his career. His music often deals with relationships and personal growth with a mature sound. He has successfully transitioned from a teen heartthrob to a serious adult artist.

Algee Smith

Algee Smith gained recognition for his portrayal of singer Ralph Tresvant in ‘The New Edition Story’. He is a talented musician in real life who releases his own R&B and hip hop tracks. Smith showcased his vocal ability again in the film ‘Detroit’ by performing on the soundtrack. His solo music is moody and atmospheric with introspective lyrics. He continues to release EPs that display his evolution as a songwriter.

Shameik Moore

Shameik Moore voiced the lead character Miles Morales in the ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ films. He is also a singer and rapper who releases music that blends pop, R&B, and hip hop. Moore garnered attention for his breakdancing and singing in the film ‘Dope’. He releases singles and music videos that highlight his high-energy performance style. His creative output is a testament to his versatility as a modern entertainer.

Elijah Kelley

Elijah Kelley is known for his energetic performances in musical films like ‘Hairspray’ and ‘The Wiz Live!’. He is a skilled vocalist and dancer who also writes and produces music. Kelley contributed to the soundtracks of the movies he starred in and proved his pop sensibilities. He has released solo singles that lean into a contemporary pop and R&B sound. His background in church music provides a strong foundation for his soulful delivery.

Leon Thomas III

Leon Thomas III rose to fame on the Nickelodeon show ‘Victorious’ where he showcased his singing ability. He has since become a heavyweight music producer who has worked with stars like Ariana Grande and Drake. Thomas won a Grammy Award for his production work and continues to release his own solo music. His personal tracks feature sophisticated R&B arrangements and smooth vocals. He is a rare example of a child actor finding massive success behind the scenes in the music industry.

Evan Ross

Evan Ross is an actor known for roles in ‘The Hunger Games’ series and ‘ATL’. He comes from music royalty as the son of legendary singer Diana Ross. Ross releases his own music that often falls into the indie pop and soul genres. He frequently collaborates with his wife Ashlee Simpson on musical projects and reality television. His unique voice sets him apart from his famous family legacy.

Quincy Brown

Quincy Brown is an actor who has appeared in the film ‘Dope’ and the series ‘Star’. He is the son of Al B. Sure! and the adopted son of Sean Diddy Combs. Brown releases R&B and pop music under the mononym Quincy. His singles often feature high production values and catchy hooks. He balances his acting commitments with a consistent stream of musical releases and music videos.

Tituss Burgess

Tituss Burgess became a breakout star on the comedy series ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. He is a Broadway veteran with an incredible tenor voice that can reach operatic heights. Burgess has released solo albums that cover a wide range of genres from pop to showtunes. His live performances are known for their humor and vocal acrobatics. He frequently lends his voice to animated projects that require singing talent.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter made history with his role in ‘Pose’ but his roots are firmly planted in musical theater. He won a Tony Award for his lead performance in ‘Kinky Boots’ on Broadway. Porter is a powerhouse vocalist who has released several albums mixing soul, jazz, and pop. His music often carries messages of empowerment and self-acceptance. He is a commanding live performer who brings theatrical flair to every song.

Joshua Henry

Joshua Henry is a celebrated stage actor who has received multiple Tony Award nominations. He has transitioned to screen roles in projects like ‘See’ on Apple TV+. Henry is a soulful singer who released his debut EP Guarantee in 2021. His music blends classic soul influences with modern production elements. He possesses a rich and powerful voice that translates effortlessly from the stage to the recording studio.

Norm Lewis

Norm Lewis is a distinguished actor known for his work on ‘Scandal’ and in various Broadway productions. He was the first African American actor to play the Phantom in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ on Broadway. Lewis releases solo albums that feature his rich baritone voice covering jazz standards and musical theater classics. He regularly performs solo concerts at prestigious venues around the country. His commanding vocal presence complements his dignified acting roles.

Taye Diggs

Taye Diggs became a star through the original Broadway production of ‘Rent’ and the subsequent film. While primarily known for acting in dramas and romantic comedies, he is a trained musical theater performer. Diggs has lent his voice to various soundtracks and animated series. He occasionally returns to the stage to showcase his singing and dancing abilities. His musical background remains a core part of his artistic identity.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs won a Tony Award for his rapid-fire rapping in ‘Hamilton’ as Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson. He is the vocalist for the experimental hip hop group Clipping. His band creates abrasive and industrial rap music that is critically acclaimed for its complexity. Diggs uses his music to explore dark themes and intricate storytelling techniques. He brings the same intensity to his film and television roles.

Jordan Fisher

Jordan Fisher is a multi-talented performer who won ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and starred in ‘To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You’. He is a pop singer with a falsetto-heavy style that appeals to a broad audience. Fisher has released singles and EPs that have performed well on radio. He has also starred in ‘Hamilton’ and ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ on Broadway. His career is a seamless blend of acting, dancing, and singing.

Wayne Brady

Wayne Brady is a master of improvisational comedy known for ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’. He is also a Grammy-nominated singer who has released albums of original R&B music. Brady played the role of Aaron Burr in the Chicago production of ‘Hamilton’. His ability to improvise songs on the spot is legendary in the comedy world. He takes his recording career seriously and delivers polished vocal performances.

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick was famous for playing serious authority figures in ‘The Wire’ and ‘John Wick’. Fans were often surprised to discover he was a trained musician who studied at the Eastman School of Music. Reddick released a jazz album titled Contemplations and Moments in 2007. He played the piano and sang with a smooth and emotive style. His musicality provided a gentle contrast to the stern characters he often portrayed.

Bokeem Woodbine

Bokeem Woodbine is a character actor known for his work in ‘Fargo’ and ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. He is also the lead singer and guitarist for the rock band 13 Purple Dragons. Woodbine writes the music for the band which features a hard rock sound. He has been playing guitar for many years and performs live when his filming schedule permits. His rock and roll persona is a surprising departure from his on-screen roles.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker is an Academy Award-winning actor celebrated for his intense dramatic performances. He actually studied opera at the University of Southern California on a scholarship. Whitaker possesses a tenor voice and has sung in films like ‘Black Nativity’ and ‘Jingle Jangle’. His classical training gives him a deep understanding of vocal control and breathing. He rarely sings publicly but remains a highly skilled vocalist.

Gary Dourdan

Gary Dourdan is best known for his long-running role on the procedural drama ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation’. He is an avid musician who plays guitar, piano, and flute. Dourdan has produced music for various projects and performed live at the Live 8 concert in 2005. His musical style encompasses elements of soul, rock, and jazz. He often immerses himself in the music scene in Europe where he tours.

Omari Hardwick

Omari Hardwick gained massive popularity as Ghost on the series ‘Power’. He is a deeply committed poet and spoken word artist who infuses music into his performances. Hardwick has released albums that combine his poetry with hip hop and soul production. He often performs at slam poetry events and uses his platform to promote literacy. His lyrical flow is rhythmic and powerful.

Craig Robinson

Craig Robinson is a comedian beloved for his role as Darryl Philbin on ‘The Office’. He is a talented keyboardist and singer who often incorporates music into his stand-up routines. Robinson leads a band called The Nasty Delicious that performs funk and soul music. He has appeared in movies like ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ where he showcases his singing voice. His musical comedy is a central part of his live act.

Jeremy Pope

Jeremy Pope is a rising star who earned Tony nominations for both a play and a musical in the same year. He is a singer who releases stylish R&B and pop music. Pope writes songs that reflect his personal journey and artistic sensibilities. His music videos are visually striking and showcase his background in theater and fashion. He is quickly becoming a double threat in Hollywood and the music industry.

O-T Fagbenle

O-T Fagbenle is known for his role in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ and for playing Barack Obama in ‘The First Lady’. He is a musician who plays the saxophone and has a background in jazz. Fagbenle has written and produced music for theater and short films. He comes from a very artistic family and grew up surrounded by music. His instrumental skills add another layer to his artistic repertoire.

Aldis Hodge

Aldis Hodge stars in blockbusters like ‘Black Adam’ and the series ‘Leverage’. He plays the violin and has been playing the instrument since he was a child. Hodge writes scripts and designs watches but still finds time for his music. He views playing the violin as a form of discipline and creative release. His dedication to mastering the instrument mirrors his work ethic on set.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo is an Emmy-winning actor known for ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Rustin’. He has a background in musical theater and starred in ‘The Scottsboro Boys’ on Broadway. Domingo contributed vocals to the soundtrack of the film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. His deep and resonant voice is capable of conveying immense power and emotion. He seamlessly integrates musicality into his dramatic performances.

Dulé Hill

Dulé Hill is famous for his roles in ‘The West Wing’ and ‘Psych’. He is an extraordinary tap dancer who has performed on Broadway in ‘Bring in ‘da Noise, Bring in ‘da Funk’. Hill often incorporates tap dancing and singing into his television roles. He possesses a smooth singing voice that pairs well with his rhythmic dancing. His musicality is rooted in the traditions of jazz and tap.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry gained fame as the rapper Paper Boi in ‘Atlanta’ but his real voice is quite different. He is a Tony-nominated stage actor with a strong singing background. Henry showcased his vocal ability in the animated movie ‘Vivo’ and the film ‘The Eternals’. He has a rich and emotive singing voice suitable for soul and gospel genres. His musical versatility allows him to tackle a wide variety of roles.

Keegan-Michael Key

Keegan-Michael Key is half of the famous comedy duo Key & Peele. He has a master’s degree in theater and is a trained singer. Key showed off his musical chops in the series ‘Schmigadoon!’ and the film ‘The Prom’. He understands the mechanics of musical comedy and performs with high energy. His ability to sing enhances his comedic range significantly.

Kenan Thompson

Kenan Thompson is the longest-serving cast member in the history of ‘Saturday Night Live’. He frequently sings in sketches and displays a surprising amount of vocal control. Thompson grew up performing and has contributed to numerous musical parodies on the show. He plays the character of a musical teacher in his sitcom ‘Kenan’. His musical contributions are a staple of his comedy career.

Joe Morton

Joe Morton is a veteran actor known for his Emmy-winning role as Rowan Pope in ‘Scandal’. He is also a blues musician who writes and performs his own songs. Morton contributed original music to the film ‘Brother from Another Planet’ early in his career. He continues to play gigs and record music that reflects his love for the blues genre. His gritty vocals match the intensity he brings to his dramatic roles.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright is one of the most respected character actors working today. He played the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat and the blues legend Muddy Waters in ‘Cadillac Records’. Wright performed his own vocals for the role of Muddy Waters and learned to mimic the musician’s guitar style. His dedication to musical authenticity was praised by critics and audiences. He proves that great acting often involves mastering new musical skills.

Share your favorite musical performance by an actor from this list in the comments.