Has anyone mentioned Paul Robeson? Known equally as actor and singer. I know he is primarily known as a concert artist, but early in his career, during the Harlem Renaissance, he was more identified with African-American folk songs and spirituals. A true Renaissance Man (no pun), he is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame and played in the NFL while earning a law degree at Columbia. In today's world of multi-million dollar athletic contracts, he may have never pursued a career in music and film.

SRS said of Tom Waits: It looks like his acting parts are small roles, incidental to his performances or soundtrack work. An exception to this is the wonderful Jim Jarmusch film "Down By Law" in which he is featured in nearly every scene. By coincidence, the very next post cites John Lurie who co-starred in the film. Both artists also contributed to the soundtrack.