21 Best Songs About Acting (2023)

Have you ever heard of the theory of dramaturgy? It is the idea that our lives are a stage play, and we are the actors in it. According to sociologist Erving Goffman, who conceptualized this idea, we all engage in role-playing on a daily basis.

In the same way, the word “acting,” which is our theme this time, has several meanings. It can be the art of performing, or it can also mean the way we behave. That being said, we have compiled a list of the top songs about acting that we are confident you will enjoy.

21. Act a Fool — Ludacris

Our opening song is sure to boost your mood. It is “Act a Fool” by American rapper Ludacris. This song was featured as a soundtrack in the 2003 blockbuster 2 Fast 2 Furious. The enthusiastic, fun tune of “Act a Fool” earned this hip-hop track a nomination for Best Song Written for Visual Media at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards.

20. Acting My Age — The Academic

If you are on a road trip, it is a must to put on the indie track “Acting My Age.” It was recorded by The Academic in 2020 for their album Sittin’ Pretty. You will find yourself humming along and smiling as you listen to this tune. You can’t go wrong with “Acting My Age” as a background tune for a get-together with your pals.

19. Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly — Pat Barrett

In the song by Pat Barrett titled “Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly,” the singer sings about how we should behave in a manner that pleases God. This 2021 title track is the kind of Christian song that can be relished from the very first listen. Both the instrumental accompaniment and Pat Barrett’s vocals give this gospel song a warm and welcoming vibe.

18. Don’t Know How to Act — Flo Rida

Flo Rida’s music has the ability to get even the most reluctant dancers moving. His track “Don’t Know How To Act” from Mail on Sunday is a rap song that can do just that. Yung Joc, another American rapper, was also featured here. “Don’t Know How To Act.” Its lyrics describe how thrilled they are that they don’t act accordingly anymore.

17. Applause — Bonnie Franklin

The theatrical “Applause” by Bonnie Franklin is a perfect example of a song about acting. “Applause” is a Broadway piece and the title track of their 1970 album as well. Watching Bonnie Franklin perform will make you appreciate her incredible talent for acting and how much of a show-stopper she was! This musical number has a hint of traditional blues and some humorous touches that will have the whole audience in stitches.

16. Act Now — Russ

Isn’t it funny how people’s treatment of you changes when you finally become successful? That is what Russ speaks about in his song “Act Now.” He describes how everything he has now is a result of his hard work and not something he got overnight. Musically, Russ’ enthralling voice will absolutely draw you in. Feel relaxed listening to this hip-hop track from the album There’s Really a Wolf.

15. Acting Bad — Sean Hampton

Let us enjoy another rap track titled “Acting Bad.” It was included in the album Honorable Mention, which was released by the multi-talented artist Sean Hampton in 2021. “Acting Bad” has a seamless tempo and unique rhythm that every hip-hop lover will appreciate. Because listening to this song is so addicting, you won’t even realize how much time has passed while you’re enjoying it!

14. Cracked Actor — David Bowie

‘Ziggy Stardust’ and ‘Thin White Duke’ were the names the legendary performer David Bowie gave himself. David Bowie is known for setting a high standard when it comes to glam rock and rock in general. Among his works was the album titled Aladdin Sane. This collection includes “Cracked Actor,” a high-energy hard rock track oozing with one-of-a-kind instrumentation, lyricism, and arrangement that is hard to find in all history of rock!

13. acting like that — YUNGBLUD

YUNGBLUD, Machine Gun Kelly, and Travis Barker collaborated to record a fascinating track titled “acting like that.” Their performance of this alternative song on the album Weird! is truly one of a kind, and it will unquestionably get your heart racing and your blood pumping. It is also worth noting that the lyrics are of such high quality.

12. Welcome To The Theatre — Lauren Bacall

Musical theater singers are unquestionably not your average singers because they must not only sing well but also act in a professional manner. Among the original Broadway cast’s notable actors is Lauren Bacall. In order to fully appreciate her prowess, you must hear her performance of “Welcome to the Theatre,” where she showcases her wide vocal range and spectacular talent in acting.

11. You Can’t Be Acting Like That — Paris James

You will be tapping your toes the very moment Paris James’s “You Can’t Be Acting Like That” starts to play. Chuck Hall was also featured in this blues piece from Where the Big Dogs Play. The combination of their versatile singing talent and the flavorful backing track is enough to make you feel as if you are in a bar, drinking your cold beer, and enjoying their enticing performance.

10. The Actor — The Moody Blues

The folk-rock song “The Actor” first appeared on the 1968 album In Search of the Lost Chord by the rock band Moody Blues. It cannot be denied that “The Actor” is a work of unparalleled musical brilliance and quality. It is best to listen to this song during a rainy afternoon and feel like you are the one being described as he sings, “It’s such a rainy afternoon. She sits and gazes from her window.” Overall, this is a perfect masterpiece to listen to to soothe your soul.

9. Everybody Acting Gangsta — Big Smile NBT

The album Eat, Drink N’ Be Merry For Tomorrow We Die by Big Smile NBT features a song that will have your heart pumping. It’s a hip-hop song called “Everybody Acting Gangsta,” and it features pulsating drum beats, bass guitar, and electronic sound effects. The repetitive chorus that goes, “Everybody acting gangster till a gangster show up” will be engraved on your mind after playing it.

8. Act a Fool — Master P

Let us enjoy the cool beats flowing and listen to “Act a Fool” by Master P. Your attention will be grabbed by his commanding performance as well as the captivating backing track of the song. This hip-hop song was recorded by Master P. and rapper Lil Jon for Master P.’s album titled Good Side/Bad Side, which was released in 2004.

7. Actin’ Up — Meek Mill and Wale

The phrasal verb “acting up” is a slang term that describes someone behaving in a negative way. Meek Mill has a song titled “Actin’ Up,” which is a rap track from Self Made Vol. 2 featuring Wale and French Montana. It was 2012 when “Actin’ Up” came out, and it instantly caught the audience’s attention with its upbeat and catchy quality.

6. Actin’ Up — Casey Veggies

On the album Live & Grow by Casey Veggies, there is also a song with a title that is very similar to the one that was just played. Casey Veggies and Dom Kennedy collaborated on the recording of this alluring hip-hop track in 2015. “Actin’ Up” is an invigorating track that can be played at any event or situation.

5. Acting Funny — Ladele

The year 2022 saw the release of “Acting Funny,” a soul-rap track by Ladele that was taken from his album Poco A Poco. It exudes a laid-back, beachy atmosphere that will make you wish you were basking in the rays of the sun while drinking from a tall glass of lemonade. The groovy beats and soothing music are on display in “Acting Funny.”

4. The Actress — Roy Orbison

Roy Orbison’s “The Actress” is a classic song that will make you want to keep listening to it non-stop. Crying (HD Remastered) is the album Roy Orbison released in 1962. Its lyrics center on a woman who pretends to love him so perfectly well that he almost fell for it. That is why the protagonist believes that she should be an actress, saying:



You play your part so well

Your act is so believable

That no one else can tell

Despite its saddening narrative, it is a soothing piece to listen to, and it will definitely help you fall asleep quicker.

3. Act My Age — One Direction

Heads up, Directioners! Here is “Act My Age” by One Direction all for you! This upbeat pop tune is from their 2014 album Four, and it’s perfect for a dance party. In this song, they express their desire to ditch the seriousness of growing older in favor of carefree revelry with friends and family. Singing this in chorus with your friends will surely be an unforgettable moment!

2. Acting Like That — Jennifer Lopez

Feel free to get up and take the dance floor as we put on the pop song “Acting Like That” by Jennifer Lopez. Iggy Azalea also contributed to this song from the album A.K.A. The perspective in “Acting Like That” belongs to a woman whose relationship with the protagonist is falling apart. She expresses her anguish over her partner’s actions by wondering why he behaves in such a way. While it may initially strike you as unhappy, this rousing tune is sure to become your new jam.

1. Imitation of Life — R.E.M.

Listeners’ hearts will be filled with joy with our last song, “Imitation of Life” by R.E.M., due to its tasty musical quality. It is connected with the aforementioned theory of dramaturgy since its lyrics detail how we, as people, put on a mask to fit in with society. The irony of “Imitation of Life” is that it has sorrowful lyrics and a joyful backing track at the same time. Nevertheless, you will never regret hearing this pop masterpiece!