Over the years, countless musicians have wanted to be actors and vice-versa. Some have succeeded. From the classic greats like Frank Sinatra in “The Manchurian Candidate” to more recent musicians like Queen Latifah in “Chicago,” they seem to be everywhere. An important thing to note, however, is that just because you “think” you can act, it doesn’t always mean that you should try.
Case in point Roger Daltrey: an awesome artist in one of the biggest bands to ever hit the rock scene, but actor? No. Even though his first film, “Tommy,” was okay, his other movies were far less than stellar.
The best part of these movies happens when he gets to sing, but that is the ONLY good thing about any of his movies. Since that is the case, it would be way better to just dust off that old Who vinyl or listen to them on YouTube. Other than that, it’s really not worth your time.
Now, I’m not saying that all musicians make terrible actors; it’s just that you should use some discretion before you pop in that new Mariah Carrey movie, trust me. Despite some of these short comings, there are some good musicians turned actors.
Take Will Smith: he’s not really known for any of his work behind the mic, but he has proved himself to be a fantastic actor. What I love about Will Smith is his ability to display a whole variety of emotions throughout his movies. In “I Am Legend,” Smith seems to go from indescribable joy to near suicidal depression, in just a few scenes. That takes talent.
Even though most musicians should stick to singing, I have been pleasantly surprised in the case of Mr. Smith and others.