Many music artists have attempted to make the transition between making music and making movies. We’ve seen some bad examples: Madonna, Mariah Carey and Britney Spears. However, we will not focus on those bad examples in this blog. Common, T.I. (or Tip Harris), and Alicia Keys are prime examples of what could be potentially great crossover careers.

Common stands out the most; I forget that he is a rap artist when I see him onscreen. He did great as a supporting character in “Smokin’ Aces.” He brought a strong sense of loyalty that made his screen time with Jeremy Piven electric. He has a cameo in “American Gangster” and another supporting role in the upcoming movie “Wanted.”

T.I. is a rap artist who had a strong starring role in 2006’s “ATL.” He also has a supporting role in “American Gangster,” ironically, playing the son of Common’s character. He brings a natural charisma, much like Common, and he also plays his role in such a way that he does not make it look like he is a rapper trying to be an actor. He could make a good supporting actor in the future. He is slated to appear in the upcoming movie “Once Was Lost.”

Keys also played a supporting character in “Smokin’ Aces.” She brings a natural beauty and her immense stage presence to the screen. She knows how to be cool, and yet, given her role as an assassin in “Smokin’ Aces,” she can pull off the tough-girl role. She also played in “The Nanny Diaries,” but I haven’t seen it.

These three artists have all tested the waters of acting. I think each of them has the potential to be a good actor. I don’t think they will make it to a Pacino or DeNiro caliber, but they are most definitely better actors than their predecessors. It would be similar in vein to Ice Cube and Ice-T. Keep an eye on these three. They won’t disappoint.