by Johnny Depp: A Music Lover at Heart
While Johnny Depp has made a name for himself as a Hollywood heartthrob and blockbuster actor, his true passion lies in music. From performing with his band The Hollywood Vampires to collaborating with legendary artists like Shane MacGowan, Depp has proven himself to be a dedicated muso at heart.
In interviews, Depp has frequently cited music as his biggest artistic influence. When asked to name formative influences in his life as an artist, Depp listed filmmakers like Howard Hawks and Tim Burton, writers like Hunter S. Thompson and Charles Baudelaire. But he maintained that “music has inspired me like no other art form.”
This is reflected in the “essential” albums Depp listed for Entertainment Weekly in 2009. Alongside movies, he paid tribute to rock stars like Bob Dylan, The Pogues and Vanessa Paradis.
Depp singled out Tom Waits as a key inspiration, calling him “the devil’s equal when it comes to the best tunes.” He also listed two Rolling Stones albums, a Keith Richards solo record, and labeled Patti Smith “one of rock’s true survivors.” The list showcases Depp’s deep knowledge and love of music.
But one artist held a special place in Depp’s heart: Serge Gainsbourg. Of Gainsbourg’s Histoire de Melody Nelson album, Depp said:
“So ahead of its time. So cool. Gainsbourg delivers his masterpiece here, and one which, for me, carries many a happy memory. So much so, my daughter was named in part after this flawless tour de force.”
There are clear parallels between Gainsbourg and Depp – both possessed a gnarled charm and poetic spirit that marked them as complicated but talented artists.
Beyond his record collection, Depp’s musical collaborations reflect his passion. He formed The Hollywood Vampires in 2015 with Alice Cooper and Joe Perry to “honor the great fallen heroes of rock.” The band covers songs by deceased rock stars and includes Depp on guitar and vocals.
Depp has also worked extensively with Shane MacGowan of The Pogues. They formed a close friendship and musical partnership, with Depp producing MacGowan’s 2007 album The Crock of Gold. Depp even appeared in the music video for the title track.
While Depp will likely be remembered most for his film roles, it’s clear that music provided the greatest inspiration throughout his life and career. From his record recommendations to his musical collaborations, Johnny Depp has proven himself a true music lover at heart. Music shaped Depp the artist, and in turn, Depp helped shape the music he loved so dearly.
