Before she became a global box office sensation as the MCU’s Black Widow, actress Scarlett Johansson faced the familiar scrutiny reserved for Hollywood stars who venture into the music industry. Many critics were prepared to dismiss her musical ambitions as a celebrity vanity project. However, Johansson delivered an unexpected vocal performance that showcased a deep, smoky contralto perfectly suited for classic jazz. This ultimately proved she was a genuine musical talent who commanded attention.
The Unexpected Jazz Turn
Johansson’s musical journey began in 2008 with her debut album, Anywhere I Lay My Head. It was a collection of covers of songs by American singer-songwriter Tom Waits. While the album received mixed reviews for its experimental nature, she truly surprised the public with her subsequent single. This was a cover of the timeless jazz standard, “Summertime.”
“Summertime” is one of the most famous arias written by George Gershwin for his 1935 opera Porgy and Bess. It is celebrated for its haunting, lullaby-like melody and deep emotionality.
Johansson’s rendition stripped the song back, focusing on her smooth, husky vocal tone. Critics noted that her delivery demonstrated a maturity and classical jazz sensibility that was genuinely impressive. It proved that her venture into music was more than just a passing fancy.
Related Notable Events in Her Music Career
While she continues to prioritize her acting career, Johansson’s foray into music has been sustained and diverse. She has collaborated with respected figures in the industry.
Her second musical project, Break Up (2009), was a collaborative album with singer Pete Yorn. The album, inspired by the duets of Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot, reached No. 41 on the US Billboard 200 chart. This was a respectable debut for an actress-led project.
In 2015, the single “Candy” from the Break Up album was certified Gold in France. This highlighted her international reach and the resonance of her musical style with European audiences.
Johansson also formed an all-female band called The Singles. This further underscored her commitment to music as a creative outlet, rather than a mere side hustle.
The initial skepticism surrounding Scarlett Johansson’s pivot to music was definitively quieted by her authoritative and unexpected take on a classic like “Summertime.” This established her as one of the few actors capable of earning genuine credibility in both the film and music industries.