African-American Actresses Who Are Also Singers

As a film buff, I’ve always been fascinated by those incredibly talented African-American women who can truly do it all – command the screen and wow you with their voices. It’s amazing how they’ve conquered both Hollywood and the music industry, often reaching the very top in both! From the groundbreaking performers of the Golden Age who fought against prejudice, to the modern stars who’ve achieved EGOT status, their ability to seamlessly move between acting and singing is what really sets them apart. I’ve put together a list of some of these remarkable women who’ve made a name for themselves as both actresses and professional singers.

Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston is celebrated as one of history’s most incredible singers, and she successfully expanded her talents to acting with her first film, ‘The Bodyguard’. The movie’s soundtrack became the best-selling of all time, largely thanks to her unforgettable version of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.” She continued to star in popular films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and ‘The Preacher’s Wife’, proving she could attract audiences. Beyond acting, Houston also helped produce films, including ‘The Princess Diaries’ and a remake of ‘Cinderella’, where she played the Fairy Godmother. Her work continues to inspire singers and performers who strive for success in both music and film.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé began her career as the frontwoman of Destiny’s Child, quickly becoming a worldwide music superstar. She then expanded into acting, showing off her talent for comedy in ‘Austin Powers in Goldmember’ and her dramatic skills in ‘Cadillac Records’ where she played Etta James. Her role in ‘Dreamgirls’ even earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Beyond traditional acting, she voiced Nala in the remake of ‘The Lion King’ and created the soundtrack album for it, ‘The Lion King: The Gift’. She consistently incorporates strong visual elements into her music, most notably in her film ‘Black Is King’.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson became well-known as a contestant on American Idol and quickly transitioned into acting, making a memorable debut in the film ‘Dreamgirls’—a performance that earned her an Academy Award. She’s successfully balanced a career in both music and film, releasing popular R&B albums and appearing in movies like ‘Sex and the City’ and ‘Respect’ where she portrayed Aretha Franklin. Through her work in television and theater, she achieved the rare EGOT status—winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. Currently, she hosts her own talk show and continues to pursue her music career.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah started her career as a beatboxer and rapper, quickly becoming an important voice for women in hip-hop. She then transitioned to acting, finding success with the TV show ‘Living Single’ and memorable roles in films like ‘Set It Off’ and ‘The Secret Life of Bees’. Her performance in the movie musical ‘Chicago’ as Matron “Mama” Morton even earned her an Academy Award nomination. Beyond rap, she’s also released jazz and pop albums, including ‘The Dana Owens Album’, and continues to be a busy producer and actress in both television and film.

Diana Ross

Diana Ross rose to fame as the lead singer of The Supremes, becoming a symbol of Motown’s success during the 1960s. She then moved into acting, famously playing Billie Holiday in ‘Lady Sings the Blues,’ a role that earned her an Academy Award nomination. Ross continued to blend her singing and acting careers in films like ‘Mahogany’ and ‘The Wiz.’ Throughout her long career, she’s been honored with the Kennedy Center Honors and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She’s a true icon who paved the way for many singers to also become successful actresses.

Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson started her career as a young actress on shows like ‘Good Times’ and ‘Fame’ before becoming a hugely successful pop star. Later, she returned to acting, starring in films like ‘Poetic Justice’ with Tupac Shakur, ‘Nutty Professor II: The Klumps,’ and the ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ series. Her music videos are famous for looking like mini-movies with intricate dance routines. She’s sold millions of records and built a solid career as an actress.

Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige, often called the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, is a hugely successful singer with over a dozen albums and multiple Grammy Awards. She’s also become a talented actress, appearing in shows like ‘Empire’ and ‘Black-ish’. Her performance in the film ‘Mudbound’ earned her Academy Award nominations for both her acting and an original song. Currently, she stars in the popular series ‘Power Book II: Ghost’. Blige’s powerful ability to express emotion shines through in all her work, whether she’s singing a heartfelt ballad or acting in a dramatic role.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey first became well-known as part of the musical duo Chloe x Halle, receiving several Grammy nominations. She then gained even wider recognition when she was chosen to play Ariel in Disney’s live-action version of ‘The Little Mermaid.’ More recently, she showed off her acting talents in the movie adaptation of ‘The Color Purple,’ where she played young Nettie. Bailey represents a new wave of performers who excel at both singing and acting. In addition to her film work, she continues to pursue her solo music career.

Janelle Monáe

I’ve always been captivated by Janelle Monáe’s artistry. She doesn’t just make music; she builds entire worlds, blending Afrofuturism and funk into these incredible concept albums. And it’s not just music – she’s become a real force in film too, with memorable roles in movies like ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Hidden Figures’. I was blown away by her in ‘Glass Onion’! She’s such a versatile performer. Everything she does, from her music videos to her concerts, feels so theatrical and imaginative. She really doesn’t fit into any one category, and I love how she constantly pushes boundaries with her storytelling, both visually and musically.

Brandy Norwood

Brandy Norwood rose to fame as a teenager with her first album and the TV show ‘Moesha’. In 1997, she made history by becoming the first Black actress to play Cinderella on television, alongside Whitney Houston, in ‘Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella’. She’s also appeared in films like ‘I Still Know What You Did Last Summer’ and ‘Tyler Perry’s Temptation’. Fellow singers often call her the “Vocal Bible” because of her unique voice and impressive vocal runs. Brandy continues to act in movies, including ‘Best. Christmas. Ever!’ and release new music.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams began her career as a groundbreaking Miss America, the first African-American woman to win the title. She then transitioned into a successful career in both music and acting. As a singer, she had popular songs like “Save the Best for Last” and the Oscar-winning “Colors of the Wind” from the movie ‘Pocahontas’. She’s also known for her acting roles in ‘Soul Food’, ‘Ugly Betty’, and ‘Desperate Housewives’. Beyond television and film, Williams has starred in Broadway productions like ‘Into the Woods’ and ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’, seamlessly moving between music, television, and theater throughout her career.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer started her career as a young actress, becoming known for roles in films like ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and the Nickelodeon show ‘True Jackson, VP’. She also launched a music career with her first album, ‘So Uncool’, and has since released several EPs and singles. More recently, Palmer has showcased her acting skills in films like ‘Nope’ and ‘Hustlers’. Despite her diverse career, she continues to embrace her musical background, often singing while hosting events or on social media. Overall, Keke Palmer has successfully transitioned from a child star into a versatile and accomplished entertainer.

Zendaya

Zendaya started her career as an actress and singer on Disney Channel shows like ‘Shake It Up’ and ‘K.C. Undercover’, even recording songs for those series. She put out her first album in 2013, which included the popular song “Replay.” Though she’s now best known for her acting – winning an Emmy for ‘Euphoria’ and starring in films like ‘Dune’ – she hasn’t left music behind. She sang “Rewrite the Stars” with Zac Efron in ‘The Greatest Showman’ and also helped write and perform songs for the ‘Euphoria’ soundtrack, including “I’m Tired.”

Fantasia Barrino

Fantasia Barrino first became well-known after winning the third season of American Idol. She then successfully moved into acting, famously playing Celie in ‘The Color Purple’ on Broadway, where she received critical acclaim. She brought that same role to the 2023 film version, earning a Golden Globe nomination. In addition to acting, Fantasia has a Grammy-winning R&B career with popular songs like “When I See U.” Her incredible voice is a key part of her performances, especially in musical theater and movies.

Jill Scott

I first discovered Jill Scott through her incredible debut album, ‘Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1’ – she really burst onto the scene as a poet and a neo-soul artist. It was great to then see her transition into acting, especially with Tyler Perry’s ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ movies and the HBO series ‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’. I even enjoyed her portrayal of James Brown’s wife in ‘Get on Up’! What consistently strikes me about her work is this really powerful, almost maternal energy she brings to every role, along with a lot of emotional honesty. She’s still actively touring and making music, but she clearly loves taking on dramatic roles in TV and film, which is fantastic.

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys is a highly skilled pianist and a celebrated singer-songwriter with 15 Grammy Awards. While known for her music, she’s also appeared in films like ‘Smokin’ Aces’, ‘The Secret Life of Bees’, and ‘The Nanny Diaries’. Beyond performing, Keys has worked as a producer for both Broadway shows and movies. She often chooses to play serious, realistic characters in her acting roles, which is different from her energetic stage presence. She continues to be a top-selling artist and carefully selects the acting projects she takes on.

Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu is a leading artist in the neo-soul genre, famous for her unique style and critically acclaimed albums, including ‘Baduizm’. Beyond music, she’s appeared in several films, such as ‘The Cider House Rules’ where she played Rose Rose, and ‘Blues Brothers 2000’. She also had roles in the films ‘What Men Want’ and ‘House of D’. Just like her music, Badu’s acting roles are often unconventional and memorable. She continues to perform and remains a significant influence on both fashion and culture.

Raven-Symoné

Raven-Symoné started her career as a young actress on ‘The Cosby Show’ and then became a major star on Disney Channel with ‘That’s So Raven’. She also had a successful music career, performing with The Cheetah Girls and releasing four solo albums. Beyond television, she’s appeared in films like ‘Dr. Dolittle’ and ‘The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement’. Now, she’s back as Raven in the spin-off series ‘Raven’s Home’, where she also takes on directing duties. Throughout her career, she’s been known for her talent in both comedy and music.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose is a talented Tony Award-winning actress who excels on stage and screen. She’s widely known as the voice of Tiana, Disney’s first African-American princess, from ‘The Princess and the Frog’. She also starred as Lorrell Robinson in the movie ‘Dreamgirls’ with Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson, and has appeared in TV shows like ‘The Good Wife’ and ‘Power’. Rose is praised for her strong singing voice and ability to handle both dramatic and musical performances.

Amber Riley

Amber Riley is best known for playing Mercedes Jones on the hit TV show ‘Glee’. She’s a talented performer with a remarkable voice, earning an Olivier Award for her role as Effie White in the West End production of ‘Dreamgirls’. She also won ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and released her first EP, ‘RILEY’, in 2020. Beyond ‘Glee’, she’s appeared in films like ‘Nobody’s Fool’ and the television special ‘The Wiz Live!’, consistently showcasing her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence.

Lena Horne

Lena Horne was a pioneering performer who overcame racial prejudice in Hollywood during the mid-1900s. She began working with MGM and starred in famous musicals like ‘Cabin in the Sky’ and ‘Stormy Weather,’ which included her most well-known song. Because of segregation, parts of her films were sometimes removed when shown in the South, but her exceptional talent always shone through. When movie roles became limited due to her support of the civil rights movement, Horne successfully transitioned to performing in nightclubs and making records. Later in her career, she won both a Tony and a Grammy Award for her acclaimed one-woman show on Broadway.

Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt was a talented and unforgettable performer, famous for her unique voice and bold personality. She became well-known for her hit song “Santa Baby” and for playing Catwoman in the 1960s “Batman” TV show. She also appeared in films like “St. Louis Blues” and later provided the voice of Yzma in Disney’s “The Emperor’s New Groove.” Kitt was incredibly versatile, performing in multiple languages and captivating audiences with her cabaret shows around the world. She continued working throughout her life and even won Daytime Emmy Awards for her voice acting work later on.

Dorothy Dandridge

I’ve always been so inspired by Dorothy Dandridge. She started out singing in nightclubs, and then became one of the first Black stars to really captivate Hollywood. It was incredible when she made history as the first African-American woman nominated for a Best Actress Oscar – her performance in ‘Carmen Jones’ was stunning! She also showed off her amazing musical talent in the movie ‘Porgy and Bess’. It’s heartbreaking to think about the discrimination she faced, which really limited the kinds of roles she could play. But despite everything, she left a lasting impact and truly opened doors for actresses like me and so many others who came after her.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll was a groundbreaking actress and singer celebrated for her work in theater, television, and film. She’s best known for starring in the sitcom ‘Julia,’ where she made history as the first African-American woman to play the lead in a TV show that didn’t rely on common stereotypes. Throughout her long and successful career, she earned a Tony Award for her performance in the musical ‘No Strings’ and received an Academy Award nomination for the film ‘Claudine.’ She was also a talented singer, releasing albums and performing in venues like Las Vegas and nightclubs, and she later became a familiar face on the soap opera ‘Dynasty.’

Coco Jones

Coco Jones first gained recognition in the Disney Channel movie ‘Let It Shine’, where she demonstrated her talents as both an actress and a singer. After facing challenges in the entertainment industry, her career received a significant boost when she landed the role of Hilary Banks in the popular drama series ‘Bel-Air’. Around the same time, she released her first major EP, and her single “ICU” even won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance. Jones is a great example of a modern performer who is successfully juggling a thriving television career with a growing music career, continuing to tour and record new music even while filming.

Tell us which of these multi-talented entertainers is your favorite in the comments.

2026-02-15 23:23