Black Actresses You Didn’t Know Are Incredible Musicians

Many Hollywood stars possess hidden talents that go far beyond their ability to memorize lines or embody characters on screen. This is particularly true for Black actresses who often harbor impressive musical backgrounds that range from classical opera training to heavy metal fronting. Some of these women started as singers before finding fame in film while others quietly release albums between shooting blockbuster movies. The following list highlights these multi-talented entertainers who prove they can command a stage just as well as they command a scene.

Jada Pinkett Smith

Most people know her for her dramatic roles in film and television over the last few decades. She surprised many fans in the early 2000s by forming a heavy metal band called Wicked Wisdom. Smith served as the lead vocalist and displayed an intense stage presence that won over skeptical crowds at Ozzfest. Her gritty vocals and high energy proved she had a genuine passion for the rock genre. This musical venture showcased a completely different side of her artistic persona that many moviegoers never expected.

Cree Summer

She is a legendary voice actress who has voiced hundreds of cartoons since the 1980s. Many fans are unaware that she released a solo rock album in 1999 produced by her friend Lenny Kravitz. Her distinct raspy voice translated perfectly to the alternative rock and soul vibe of her music. She toured with the Lilith Fair festival and gained a cult following for her musical authenticity. Summer continues to share her love for singing through various creative projects and social media.

Maya Rudolph

Comedy is her primary claim to fame thanks to her long tenure on ‘Saturday Night Live’. Before she became a comedy icon she was the keyboardist and backing singer for the rock band The Rentals. She later formed a Prince cover band called Princess with her friend Gretchen Lieberum. Rudolph possesses a powerful singing voice that she often incorporates into her comedic sketches and voice roles. Her musical lineage is strong as she is the daughter of soul singer Minnie Riperton.

Rashida Jones

Audiences love her for her sensible characters in sitcoms like ‘The Office’ and ‘Parks and Recreation’. Jones is also a talented singer and songwriter who has contributed backup vocals for bands like Maroon 5. She wrote songs for the soundtrack of films she starred in such as ‘Celeste and Jesse Forever’. Her musical ability allows her to compose scores and direct music videos for major artists. She often collaborates with her partner Ezra Koenig on various musical endeavors.

Tessa Thompson

She has captivated audiences in major franchises ranging from the MCU to the ‘Creed’ films. Thompson was part of an electro-soul band called Caught A Ghost that provided music for the ‘Dear White People’ soundtrack. She showcased her singing ability on screen when she performed tracks as her character Bianca in the ‘Creed’ movies. Her voice has a sultry and modern quality that fits perfectly with experimental soul music. She continues to explore music alongside her thriving acting career.

Zoë Kravitz

Acting in blockbusters like ‘The Batman’ has made her a household name around the world. She fronted the R&B and electropop band Lolawolf which released several EPs and albums. Her music is known for its edgy aesthetic and experimental sound that differs from mainstream pop. Kravitz has performed at major music festivals and toured with big acts like Lily Allen and Miley Cyrus. Her artistic output proves she inherited the musical genes of her rockstar father.

Keke Palmer

She started her career as a child actress in films like ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ before dominating pop culture. Palmer signed a record deal early in her career and released the album ‘So Uncool’ in 2007. She has consistently released mixtapes and EPs that showcase her growth as an R&B artist. Her rich vocal tone allows her to excel in musical projects like the television special ‘Grease Live’. She views music as a vital outlet for her personal expression and storytelling.

Tatyana Ali

Fans watched her grow up as Ashley Banks on the hit sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. She launched a successful music career in the late 1990s with her debut album ‘Kiss the Sky’. Her hit single ‘Daydreamin” climbed the Billboard charts and certified her as a gold-selling artist. Ali possesses a sweet soprano voice that fit perfectly with the R&B sound of that era. She continues to release independent music while maintaining a steady acting schedule.

Raven-Symoné

She became a global superstar through her work on the Disney Channel and ‘The Cosby Show’. Her music career includes four studio albums that explore pop, R&B, and hip-hop genres. She contributed significantly to ‘The Cheetah Girls’ soundtracks which went platinum and led to sold-out arena tours. Raven has a theatrical voice that she has utilized on Broadway in productions like ‘Sister Act’. Her musical catalog remains a nostalgic favorite for fans who grew up in the 2000s.

Zendaya

Before winning Emmys for her dramatic acting she began her career as a singer and dancer. She released a self-titled debut album in 2013 that featured the platinum hit single ‘Replay’. Her music blends pop and rhythmic R&B elements that showcase her smooth vocal delivery. She showcased her singing chops again in the musical film ‘The Greatest Showman’ alongside Zac Efron. Although she focuses primarily on acting now she has not ruled out a return to music in the future.

Kat Graham

She is best known for her role as Bonnie Bennett on the supernatural drama ‘The Vampire Diaries’. Graham has been a dedicated musician since she was a teenager and was signed to Interscope Records. She has released several albums and EPs that blend pop, disco, and funk influences. Her work often features high-energy dance tracks that highlight her performance background. She produces much of her own music and directs her stylish music videos.

Kiersey Clemons

Her breakout roles in independent films often highlight her natural charisma and acting range. Clemons displayed her impressive vocal ability in the film ‘Hearts Beat Loud’ where she sang all her character’s songs. She has collaborated with major producers like Pharrell Williams for film soundtracks. Her voice has a unique indie-pop quality that brings an emotional depth to her performances. She continues to seek out roles that allow her to merge her love for acting and singing.

Amandla Stenberg

She gained initial fame for her role as Rue in ‘The Hunger Games’ before taking on lead roles. Stenberg plays the violin and sings in a folk-rock duo called Honeywater. The group released an EP that features her gentle vocals and acoustic instrumentation. She also contributed a track to the soundtrack of her film ‘The Hate U Give’. Her musical style is introspective and complements her advocacy for social justice and authentic expression.

Willow Smith

She entered the spotlight as a child with the viral pop hit ‘Whip My Hair’. Willow has since evolved into a serious musician who explores psychedelic folk and pop-punk genres. Her albums demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of musical composition and lyrical depth. She plays the guitar and produces much of her own material in her home studio. Her willingness to experiment with different sounds has earned her critical acclaim in the alternative music scene.

China Anne McClain

She became a Disney Channel favorite through the show ‘A.N.T. Farm’ where she performed the theme song. McClain formed a girl group with her two sisters called the McClain Sisters. They released several pop tracks and contributed to various movie soundtracks during the 2010s. Her voice is powerful and soulful beyond her years which helped her land a role in the ‘Descendants’ franchise. She continues to share cover songs and original music with her devoted fanbase.

Ryan Destiny

She starred in the musical drama series ‘Star’ where she played a member of a girl group. Destiny was actually in a group called Love Dollhouse before she landed her breakout television role. Her solo music leans into a sultry 90s R&B aesthetic with modern production elements. She frequently releases singles and music videos that highlight her skills as a vocalist and dancer. Fans eagerly anticipate a full-length project as she balances her acting commitments.

Coco Jones

She started as a teen actress in Disney Channel movies like ‘Let It Shine’. Jones faced career hurdles but reinvented herself as a powerhouse R&B singer through viral videos. Her tenacity paid off when she signed a major label deal and won a Grammy Award for her performance. Her rich contralto voice has drawn comparisons to legends like Jennifer Hudson. She is now recognized as one of the leading voices in contemporary R&B music.

Amber Riley

Her role as Mercedes Jones on ‘Glee’ introduced the world to her incredible vocal talent. Riley is a powerhouse singer who can tackle everything from gospel to musical theatre showstoppers. She won the Olivier Award for her lead performance in the West End production of ‘Dreamgirls’. Her voice is celebrated for its range, control, and emotional resonance. She formed a supergroup called Leading Ladies with other stage stars to release an album of classic songs.

Anika Noni Rose

She made history as the voice of Tiana in Disney’s ‘The Princess and the Frog’. Rose is a Tony Award-winning actress who has conquered Broadway in shows like ‘Caroline, or Change’. Her voice combines the clarity of a Disney princess with the soulfulness of a theatre veteran. She starred in the film adaptation of ‘Dreamgirls’ alongside Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson. Her concerts and cabaret performances showcase her versatility across jazz and pop standards.

Cynthia Erivo

She burst onto the scene with a Tony-winning performance in the Broadway revival of ‘The Color Purple’. Erivo is known for her fitness and her ability to run a marathon and sing a full concert the next day. She released a debut album titled ‘Ch. 1 Vs. 1’ that features original soul and pop songs. Her vocal technique is impeccable and allows her to belt high notes with seeming ease. She brings this musicality to her film roles including her portrayal of Aretha Franklin.

Danielle Brooks

She gained fame as Taystee on ‘Orange Is the New Black’ but her roots are in the theatre. Brooks received a Tony nomination for her role in ‘The Color Purple’ alongside Cynthia Erivo. She is also a talented singer who releases independent music and covers on social media. Her voice is gritty and full of gospel influences that reflect her upbringing. She recently starred in the film musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ to critical acclaim.

Uzo Aduba

Audiences know her best as Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” Warren from ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Aduba is a classically trained singer who studied voice at Boston University. She showcased her singing ability as Glinda the Good Witch in ‘The Wiz Live’. Her background in opera gives her a strong technical foundation and powerful projection. She often surprises fans during interviews or special appearances with her ability to sing complex arrangements.

Renée Elise Goldsberry

She achieved superstar status for originating the role of Angelica Schuyler in the musical ‘Hamilton’. Goldsberry had a long career in television and theatre before her breakout hip-hop and jazz performance. She has released solo music that blends pop and soul influences. Her lightning-fast rapping ability in ‘Hamilton’ is matched by her soaring soprano singing voice. She continues to perform in concerts and star in musical comedy series like ‘Girls5eva’.

Jasmine Cephas Jones

She is another original cast member of ‘Hamilton’ who played both Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds. Cephas Jones released an EP titled ‘Blue Bird’ that showcases her smooth jazz and R&B vocals. Her father is a legendary stage actor but she has carved her own path in the music industry. Her voice has a unique texture that works well for both acoustic ballads and upbeat tracks. She balances her television roles with regular live music performances in New York.

Audra McDonald

She is the most decorated performer in Tony Award history with six wins across various categories. McDonald is a classically trained soprano who performs regularly with major symphony orchestras. Her acting career includes significant roles in television dramas like ‘The Good Fight’ and ‘Private Practice’. Her voice is considered one of the finest in the American theatre for its richness and expressive quality. She seamlessly transitions between dramatic acting and operatic singing.

Jenifer Lewis

She is often referred to as “The Mother of Black Hollywood” due to her extensive resume. Lewis began her career as a backup singer for Bette Midler as one of the Harlettes. She has a powerful cabaret voice and has performed one-woman shows across the country. Her viral songs on Instagram display her ability to improvise and entertain with music. She brings a theatrical musicality to almost every role she plays on screen.

Loretta Devine

Her distinctive breathy speaking voice makes her instantly recognizable in films and television. Devine originated the role of Lorrell Robinson in the Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’. She has a powerful singing voice that surprises those who only know her from movies like ‘Waiting to Exhale’. Her ballads in the original ‘Dreamgirls’ cast recording are considered classics by musical theatre fans. She occasionally sings in her film roles and brings a soulful touch to her performances.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

She is currently beloved for her role as Barbara Howard on the sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’. Ralph originated the role of Deena Jones in ‘Dreamgirls’ on Broadway and was nominated for a Tony. Her singing voice is commanding and she often performs at charity events and galas. She released a book and music that celebrate her longevity as a diva in the entertainment industry. Her occasional singing moments on her sitcom remind viewers of her legendary musical past.

Tichina Arnold

She played the iconic role of Pam on the sitcom ‘Martin’ and the matriarch on ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. Arnold is known in the industry for having a massive vocal range that rivals professional singers. She frequently posts videos of herself singing gospel and R&B with friends and colleagues. Her voice is powerful enough to fill a stadium yet she focused primarily on comedic acting. She eventually showcased her singing talents professionally in various stage plays and special events.

Tisha Campbell

She starred alongside Tichina Arnold in ‘Martin’ and has been a staple of Black sitcoms for decades. Campbell released a debut album in 1993 that featured the moderate hit single ‘Push’. She is a trained singer who often incorporates music into her comedy routines and television roles. Her music videos from the 90s showcase her strong dance ability and vocal performance. She continues to release singles and perform live while maintaining her acting career.

Jasmine Guy

She is best known as the bougie Whitley Gilbert on the college sitcom ‘A Different World’. Guy released a self-titled debut album in 1990 while the show was at the height of its popularity. Her music was a mix of new jack swing and R&B that produced the hit ‘Try Me’. She is also a trained dancer which helped her deliver high-energy performances in her music videos. She later returned to television and film but her musical era remains a cult favorite.

Dawnn Lewis

She played Jaleesa Vinson on ‘A Different World’ during its early seasons. Lewis is a gifted songwriter who actually composed the show’s funky theme song. She has a strong background in musical theatre and has appeared in the Broadway production of ‘The Wiz’. Her voice work in animation often utilizes her singing ability for various characters. She remains an active musician and session singer in Los Angeles.

Holly Robinson Peete

She gained fame on the police drama ’21 Jump Street’ alongside Johnny Depp. Peete sang the show’s catchy theme song which is still remembered by fans today. She has performed in various musical productions and often sings at charitable events for autism awareness. Her voice has a clear pop quality that suited the radio landscape of the late 80s. While acting is her main focus she has never lost her passion for music.

Vanessa Williams

She made history as the first Black Miss America before launching a massive entertainment career. Williams is a multi-platinum recording artist known for hits like ‘Save the Best for Last’. She seamlessly transitions between acting in shows like ‘Ugly Betty’ and recording chart-topping albums. Her voice is known for its smooth phrasing and emotional delivery in both pop and theatre music. She continues to tour and perform on Broadway in addition to her screen work.

Queen Latifah

She is a hip-hop pioneer who broke barriers for women in rap with hits like ‘Ladies First’. Latifah successfully pivoted to acting and eventually showcased her singing voice in the film ‘Chicago’. She released ‘The Dana Owens Album’ which featured her singing jazz and soul standards beautifully. Her ability to rap and sing jazz with equal proficiency makes her a rare dual threat. She brought these skills together to play the blues legend Bessie Smith in a biopic.

Jill Scott

She entered the entertainment world as a spoken word poet and neo-soul singer. Scott’s debut album ‘Who Is Jill Scott?’ is considered a classic of the genre. She transitioned into acting with ease and starred in films like ‘Why Did I Get Married?’. Her acting performances are often informed by the same emotional depth found in her music. She continues to tour as a musician while taking on dramatic roles in television series.

Erykah Badu

She is the eccentric queen of neo-soul known for her unique voice and style. Badu has taken on several acting roles in films like ‘The Cider House Rules’ and ‘House of D’. Her screen presence is just as magnetic as her stage persona. She often plays characters that align with her earthy and spiritual real-life vibe. While she releases music less frequently now her legacy as a musician is solidified.

Janelle Monáe

She started as a conceptual musician with a futuristic android alter-ego. Monáe stunned critics with her acting debut in major films like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. Her music blends funk, rock, and R&B into theatrical concept albums. She brings a specific physical intensity to her acting that comes from her years of live performance. She has successfully conquered both industries without compromising her unique artistic vision.

Mary J. Blige

She is the undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul with a catalog of heartbreak anthems. Blige surprised critics with her Oscar-nominated acting performance in the period drama ‘Mudbound’. She has since taken on a leading role in the crime drama series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’. Her acting brings the same raw vulnerability that fans have loved in her music for decades. She continues to tour arenas while building a respectable filmography.

Andra Day

She gained recognition for her inspirational anthem ‘Rise Up’ before trying her hand at acting. Day transformed completely to portray Billie Holiday in ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination. She utilized her unique vocal styling to recreate Holiday’s sound rather than just lip-syncing. This role established her as a serious actress capable of carrying a major biopic.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

She recently won an Oscar for her role in ‘The Holdovers’ but her roots are musical. Randolph is a classically trained opera singer who studied at the Yale School of Drama. She showcased her vocal chops in the Broadway musical ‘Ghost’ and the film ‘High Fidelity’. Her training allows her to control her voice with precision in both dramatic and comedic scenes. She brings a level of discipline to her craft that stems from her rigorous musical education.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

She is a British actress known for period dramas and sci-fi thrillers like ‘Loki’. Mbatha-Raw played a pop superstar in the romantic drama ‘Beyond the Lights’. She sang all the songs for her character and displayed a convincing pop star persona. The role required her to train vocally to perform high-energy dance numbers while singing. Critics praised her for her ability to navigate the musical and dramatic demands of the film.

Taraji P. Henson

She is an electric actress known for playing Cookie Lyon on ‘Empire’. Henson provided the hook for the Oscar-winning song ‘It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp’ from the film ‘Hustle & Flow’. She studied musical theatre in college and has hosted several music award shows. Her role on ‘Empire’ allowed her to showcase her singing ability on a weekly basis. She recently starred as Shug Avery in the musical film adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’.

Logan Browning

She starred as the lead in the satirical drama ‘Dear White People’ on Netflix. Browning was previously a main character in the ‘Bratz’ live-action movie where she did her own singing. She has a sweet singing voice that she occasionally shares on social media platforms. Her background includes dance and vocal training that helped her land early roles. She remains a triple threat who can handle drama, comedy, and musical performance.

Tell us which actress’s musical talent surprised you the most in the comments.