14 DAY TRIAL // British actor Hugh Laurie has achieved international fame and critical acclaim for his portrayal of the very intelligent and bitter Dr. Gregory House on the medical drama “House M.D.,” but acting is not all that he does. In fact, even on the popular TV show, Laurie plays some piano and guitar, so who’s to say he can’t do it in real life too. This summer, Laurie will be working on a blues album that will be released at a later date, the Telegraph informs.
However, this is not a case of expanding one’s stay in the spotlight, as any true Laurie fan must know. The actor is usually very private and would only do the media rounds if bound by contract (forced would be a much more suitable term), so, if he’s coming out with a music album, it must be because he truly believes in the project. In fact, Laurie himself is the first to say that trying his hand at music will undoubtedly get people talking about his real motives for doing it.
Prejudices should be left at the door, though, he seems to be saying. “I am drunk with excitement at this opportunity. I know the history of actors making music is a checkered one, but I promise no one will get hurt. I am particularly thrilled to be working with Joe Henry, who has produced some of my favorite records of all time, and I can’t wait to get started,” the critically acclaimed actor says of his new endeavor. Knowing how dedicated Laurie is every time he starts something new, fans shouldn’t worry about people “getting hurt,” one can easily say.
“Laurie, 52, will team up with a range of guest musicians for the New Orleans blues album which he will record this summer. Warner label WME will release the album, working with musician and producer Joe Henry, in the autumn. […] Henry has worked with artists including Elvis Costello, Teddy Thompson, Solomon Burke and Loudon Wainwright III. He has also written songs for acts such as Madonna and Madeleine Peyroux,” the Telegraph informs.
Laurie himself is no stranger to the music business: he’s performed and sung for most part of his career, including piano on the TV show “Jeeves and Wooster.” He also plays keyboards in Band from TV, a charity group, and is featured on Meat Loaf’s most recent material, the same publication says.
Follow me on Twitter @ElenaGorgan