10 Footballers Who Are in the Music Scene

Footballers have tried to go into the music scene, it has been a hobby for most of them. For years, the locker-room playlist and the roar of the crowd may have sparked a love for music.

Some players keep it casual, freestyles with friends, and studio visits in the off-season, while a few take the brave step to write, record, and release their own tracks. 

Here are 10 footballers who tried music:

Andy Cole (England)

Fresh from Manchester United’s 1999 treble, Cole released the R&B single “Outstanding.” The track drew attention because it showed a star striker trying a very different stage. While the song didn’t become a major hit, it proved that top players could cross into pop culture and still keep fans curious.

Cole promoted it with interviews and TV spots, speaking about how music helped him relax outside football. His brief music spell is still remembered as one of the earliest bold moves by a Premier League name.

Memphis Depay (Netherlands)

Depay treats music as a serious craft. Between training and matches, he writes and records rap songs, sharing his life story and faith. Tracks like “Fall Back,” “These Days,” and “Kings & Kingdoms” show his blend of confidence and reflection.

He films clean, stylish videos and often previews music on social media, building a loyal following. For Depay, music is not a gimmick, it’s part of his personal brand and a way to connect with fans beyond goals and assists.

José “Pinto” Wahin (Spain)

Best known as Barcelona’s calm, reliable backup goalkeeper, Pinto found a second career behind the mixing desk. Under the name “Pinto Wahin,” he produces urban and electronic sounds.

He has collaborated with dancers and stage shows, including work for the Cirque du Soleil production Messi10.

Pinto says music kept his mind sharp during his playing days and gave him a creative outlet after retirement. His journey shows how a squad player can become a respected producer with steady, patient work.

Sergio Ramos (Spain)

Ramos surprised many when he helped front “La Roja Baila” around Euro 2016, a lively anthem tied to Spain’s national team. Years later, he returned with a solo single to show he wasn’t done with the studio.

His music leans toward pop and anthem-like hooks, big choruses, strong rhythm, and lyrics about pride and celebration. Fans may debate his vocal chops, but they can’t deny his commitment. Like his style on the pitch, Ramos attacks music with intensity and confidence.

Clint Dempsey (USA)

Dempsey’s 2006 track “Don’t Tread” arrived during a World Cup year and carried a clear message: belief, grit, and respect for the game. Using the stage name “Deuce,” he rapped about hard work and national pride.

The production sat well with sports promos and highlight reels, which helped the song spread. Dempsey later said hip-hop influenced his competitive mindset. His crossover stands out because it felt authentic,less about fame, more about voice.

Alex Iwobi (Nigeria)

Iwobi pushed his music interest beyond casual freestyles with songs like “Don’t Shoot” and “What’s Luv?”. His style blends Afro-swing and rap, with smooth hooks and upbeat drums.

He’s spoken about music as a safe space, a way to express feelings that don’t always show on the pitch. Iwobi’s releases also highlight modern African sounds, which helps him connect with young fans who follow football and Afrobeats alike. For him, music is culture and community as much as entertainment.

John Barnes (England)

Barnes is a true football-music pioneer. “Anfield Rap” (1988) became part of Liverpool lore, cheeky, catchy, and full of club spirit.

Two years later, his guest verse on New Order’s “World in Motion” turned into a classic football anthem, remembered for its playful rap and infectious chorus.

Barnes often performs the verse at events, keeping the nostalgia alive. His success wasn’t about studio perfection; it was about timing, personality, and the joy of the game.

Ruud Gullit (Netherlands)

Before global fame with AC Milan and the Dutch national team, Gullit tried his hand at music with “Not the Dancing Kind” (1984). He later supported anti-apartheid efforts with the song “South Africa,” using his platform for a cause.

Gullit’s music carried the same spirit as his play, bold, expressive, and open to the world. His work reminds us that athletes can also be cultural voices, not just sports figures.

Julio Iglesias (Spain)

Long before he became one of the world’s best-known singers, Iglesias kept goal for Real Madrid Castilla. A serious car accident ended his football path, pushing him toward music while he recovered. He learned guitar, trained his voice, and never looked back.

Over decades, he earned major awards and sold out arenas. His story is the biggest transformation on this list: from goalkeeper to global star, proof that life can open new doors after a setback.

Slaven Bilić (Croatia)

A passionate defender and national-team coach, Bilić also plays guitar with the rock band Rawbau. Before Euro 2008, they released “Vatreno Ludilo” (“Fiery Madness”), a song full of energy and fan spirit. Bilić has shared stages with well-known rock musicians and brings the same intensity to music as he did to touchline tactics. His example shows that leadership and art can fit in one person, discipline for the job, creativity for the soul.