Benedict Cumberbatch’s favourite Spotify songs – and surprising band topping list

Benedict Cumberbatch’s Musical Tastes: From Elbow to Pink Floyd

Celebrated actor Benedict Cumberbatch, renowned for his roles in blockbuster films like Marvel’s Doctor Strange and the hit BBC series Sherlock, is not only acclaimed for his acting prowess but also possesses a deep appreciation for music. The Hollywood star has frequently shared insights into his favorite songs and musical preferences. In a recent interview, Cumberbatch revealed Elbow’s latest album, “Audio Vertigo,” as his current top pick.

Admiration for Elbow and Eclectic Spotify Playlist

Speaking to NME, Cumberbatch expressed his admiration for Elbow’s frontman, stating, “Guy [Garvey] is a friend, and I deeply admire him. The band consistently demonstrates innovation and playfulness in their music.” The actor provided a glimpse into his recent Spotify listening habits, mentioning his enjoyment of Polish cellist Dobrawa Czocher’s 2023 album, “Dreamscapes.” His diverse playlist also includes U2’s “Achtung Baby” reissue, Nick Cave’s “Ghosteen,” and tracks from artists such as Jon Hopkins, Noah Kahan, and Blur.

Wife Sophie Hunter’s Music Featured

Notably featured on Cumberbatch’s list was “Songs For a Boy,” an album by his wife, Sophie Hunter, in collaboration with Guy Chambers. Cumberbatch and Hunter married in 2015, four years after the release of her EP in 2011. The couple are parents to three children.

Music as a Tool for Character Development

Cumberbatch also utilizes music as an instrument to immerse himself in roles. He explained to NME, “Music helps define a character’s mindset, influencing their appearance, movement, and thoughts. It’s an immediate and powerful language, a brilliant non-verbal method for grasping a character’s essence.”

Top Song Selections

Two Paddocks Playlist Highlights

For Two Paddocks, Cumberbatch curated a list featuring classics like Stone Roses’ “Fools Gold,” Van Morrison’s “Sweet Thing,” and Davie Bowie’s “Young Americans” among his top ten selections. Radiohead’s “How to Disappear Completely,” Rolling Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” and Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” also made the cut.

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Sharing the Stage with David Gilmour

“Comfortably Numb” Performance

In 2016, Cumberbatch took to the stage alongside Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour, accepting an invitation to perform lead vocals on “Comfortably Numb,” taking on Roger Waters’ vocal parts. He admitted to experiencing “utter terror” at the prospect of singing publicly, noting, “It’s a spoken-word style song; it’s not like tackling an Adele track.”

Reflecting on the experience, Cumberbatch stated, “To stand on stage so close to David Gilmour, witnessing his guitar artistry and his voice, which only deepens with time, was extraordinary. Although watching the performance now makes me slightly self-conscious, I knew I would regret declining the opportunity more than actually doing it; it was truly unforgettable.”