Football players are celebrated for their mastery on the pitch, dazzling footwork, relentless dedication, and breathtaking athleticism. But beyond the roar of the stadium, some of these athletes possess a hidden talent, musical ability. From locker room serenades to chart topping hits, these players have shown they can carry a tune as well as they carry the ball. Here’s a look at 13 football stars who’ve surprised fans with their vocal and musical gifts.
1. Memphis Depay
The Dutch striker, once a key figure at Barcelona, has carved out a niche in the hip hop world. In 2017, he launched his music career with “LA Vibes,” a freestyle inspired by his Los Angeles days, featuring teammate Quincy Promes in the video. Tracks like “Fall Back,” “No Love,” and “From Ghana” followed, blending his love for rap with his worldly experiences.
2. Leighton Baines
Everton’s former full back is a self proclaimed “indie kid” with a deep passion for music. A talented guitarist, Baines counts Alex Turner of The Last Shadow Puppets and Miles Kane as close mates. His devotion was evident when he packed his guitar for England’s 2014 World Cup campaign, ready to play between matches.
3. Alisson Becker
Liverpool’s Brazilian goalkeeper isn’t just a fortress in goal, he’s got a voice to match. A rock aficionado, Alisson has covered Oasis’s “Don’t Look Back in Anger” and impressed teammates with a performance alongside local musician Jamie Webster during his 2018 initiation at the club. His singing reveals a soulful side to the shot stopper.
4. Jesé Rodríguez
The former Real Madrid forward swapped the pitch for the stage, diving into Spanish reggae. In 2014, he teamed up with friend DJ Nuno to form a band, and a year later, as Jey M, he dropped “Yo Sabía.” The song’s video has since clocked over 30 million YouTube views, marking him as a dual threat talent.
5. Sergio Ramos
Famed for his fierce play and a record haul of red cards, the ex Real Madrid captain has a gentler side. In 2016, Ramos collaborated with Niña Pastori and producer RedOne on “La Roja Baila,” the Spanish national team’s anthem for that year’s European Championship. It’s an unexpected melody from a hard hitting defender.
watch:
https://youtu.be/g7f6pHtis4o
6. Alexis Lalas
The flamboyant American defender rocked the ‘90s in more ways than one. A guitarist and singer, Lalas released six solo albums and led a band that opened for acts like Hootie & the Blowfish. His wild hair and bold sound made him a standout in football and music alike.
7. Petr Čech
The retired Czech goalkeeper traded saves for drumsticks, displaying his percussion prowess on YouTube. Čech, a hobbyist drummer, has tackled covers of Stereophonics and Rihanna songs, proving his rhythm stretches beyond the penalty area.
watch: https://youtu.be/oIZ2_3bm2PQ
8. Amadou Onana
Belgium’s rising midfield star left fans speechless with his soulful voice on social media. The 21 year old nailed Summer Walker’s “You Don’t Know What Love Is” and belted out Solomon’s “Listen Up” before a 2022 World Cup clash with Morocco. His talent was a revelation.
watch: https://youtu.be/E5hGfcCBguA
9. Luis Díaz
Liverpool’s Colombian winger brought his flair to “El Ritmo Que Nos Une,” Colombia’s 2024 Copa América anthem. Joining reggaeton artist Ryan Castro and producer SOG, Díaz’s verse, layered with traditional instruments like the kuisi flute, mirrors his passion and cultural roots.
watch: https://youtu.be/6Y1dtxb-2lE
10. Ruud Gullit
The Dutch legend could’ve swapped football glory for a mic. In 1988, Gullit teamed with reggae band Revelation Time for “South Africa,” an anti apartheid anthem. He also landed a top 10 Dutch hit with “Not the Dancing Kind,” showcasing his wide ranging gifts.
11. Glenn Hoddle
The former England midfielder, known for his silky skills, brought that finesse to music. In 1987, he partnered with teammate Chris Waddle for the pop single “Diamond Lights.” Years later, Hoddle appeared on The Masked Singer in the UK, unveiling a vocal range as smooth as his passing.
12. Daniel Sturridge
The ex Liverpool striker is a hip hop and R&B enthusiast, often seen with artists like Drake and Dizzee Rascal. Sturridge has explored music production, crafting beats in his spare time. His love for the genre earned him the “hipster footballer” tag among fans.
13. José Manuel Pinto
Barcelona’s former backup goalkeeper built a music legacy while stacking trophies. A producer with his own label, Pinto’s work snagged a Latin Grammy, a triumph that rivals his Champions League medals. His path from the bench to the studio is truly inspiring.
