Through the years, many actors (too many, probably) have fancied themselves singers and musicians. This is not surprising but the question remains: how many of these “talents” are truly musically adept? Not many, you say? You’re right, but that’s besides the point. The fact is, a fan of a movie or television star will almost always be willing to shell out bucks to hear the object of their desire warble or croon or bang or strum.
Actors such as Zooey Daschanel, Jenny Lewis, Kevin Bacon, and Steve Martin have released material worth a listen. But some like Bruce Willis, Steven Seagal, and David Hasselhoff have offered up “material” which might have been better left on a dusty shelf in the back of the studio. Way in the back of the studio.
This is not the case with Robert Downey, Jr. When Downey, one of my favorite actors, released his album, The Futurist, in November of 2004, I was skeptical but not overly so. Downey had exhibited musical talent prior to this release, crooning a poignant version of Charlie Chaplin’s “Smile” for the soundtrack of his film Chaplin, and re-recording it for The Futurist. It was one of only two cover versions on the Futurist album. The other was an offbeat version of Yes’s "Your Move." Eight songs on the album were penned by Downey.
After repeated plays, the record became one of my favorites. The songs, jazz-tinged ballads complemented by Downey’s gruff, evocative vocals and more than competent piano playing, are impressive and haunting. Songs about reincarnation (“Kimberly Glides”), starting over (“Man Like Me”), and a jaded look at romance (“Broken”) are deeply personal reflections sung from the heart. I adore this record and wish Downey would do another. But since his movie career has since taken him to greater, greener pastures, I doubt we’ll see another musical offering from him anytime soon.
Article comments
1 - Olga Parera
I so agree with you, Mindy. Downey Jr.'s album is just fantastic, very moving and sophisticated. As you can imagine, I simply cannot wait to listen to Hugh's album, I'm so happy that his dream is coming true.
2 - Mindy
Thanks, Olga. Yes, I'm so glad Hugh is finally going to record HIS record. With Joe Henry producing, it's sure to be something special.
3 - Cindy
Yes indeed, Robert Downey Jr.'s record is a good one!
4 - Chris
Robert's cd is fantastic. In fact I must go and listen again. One of the few actors who can sing. One of his past co-stars is another!