“Better Than the Devil”—Johnny Depp Names the One Artist Who Rules Them All

Johnny Depp is no stranger to the world of music. While he may be most famous for his acting career, Depp’s musical credentials are impressive in their own right. Having played guitar before Hollywood beckoned, the actor has collaborated with a roster of rock legends, including Oasis, Iggy Pop, and Shane MacGowan. He’s also released two albums with his supergroup, the Hollywood Vampires, alongside rock icons Alice Cooper and Joe Perry. Yet, when it comes to naming his all-time favorite artist, Depp doesn’t hesitate to give the devil his due — and then some. According to Depp, the only artist better than the devil himself is Tom Waits, and specifically his groundbreaking 1985 album Rain Dogs.

Tom Waits, the gravel-voiced singer-songwriter whose haunting, disillusioned tales have captivated generations, has always been a source of inspiration for a wide range of artists. But for Depp, Waits’ music holds a particular allure. Known for his raw, gritty portrayal of life’s underbelly, Waits is the kind of artist whose influence is felt not only in the sound but in the spirit of his lyrics. Depp’s admiration for Waits is profound, describing him as an artist who transcends mere musical talent. “The devil doesn’t have the best tunes,” Depp once remarked. “Tom Waits does.”

Waits’ Rain Dogs, in particular, stands as a defining moment in the singer’s career. The album, often seen as a gritty portrait of New York City, captures the chaos, disillusionment, and eccentricity of life on the fringes. For Depp, it was the album’s portrayal of the dark side of the city that drew him in. “It’s almost impossible to single out a particular recording of his,” Depp explained, emphasizing the impossibility of choosing just one among Waits’ vast discography. “His high-water marks are countless.”

Depp’s praise of Waits goes beyond the album. He speaks of the artist’s ability to produce a continued high level of output throughout his career, rarely faltering in quality and consistently inspiring listeners across generations. This is no small feat in an industry where many artists’ careers can wax and wane. For Depp, Waits’ prolific work and his lyrical brilliance are what elevate him to near mythical status.

Waits’ influence extends far beyond Depp, with other prominent musicians also citing him as a major inspiration. Florence Welch, the lead singer of Florence + The Machine, has spoken about her deep admiration for Waits’ raw, unflinching imagery and his unique ability to tackle the unsaid. His music resonates with artists who value depth and authenticity, and Rain Dogs has remained a staple in many musicians’ collections.

The juxtaposition of Waits’ ethereal, almost mystical allure with his devilish, grittier side makes him a truly enigmatic figure in music. His lyrics paint vivid pictures of the rough edges of life, yet his voice and delivery elevate these stories to something otherworldly. Depp’s description of Waits as a figure who straddles these dualities — simultaneously ethereal and devilish — underscores the power of Waits’ artistry.

Waits has spent over five decades crafting a discography that spans a wide range of genres and sounds, from folk to jazz to blues, and his influence continues to be felt across the musical landscape. His ability to capture the raw, unfiltered truths of life — from the mundane to the extraordinary — ensures that his work remains as compelling as ever. As Depp’s admiration so eloquently puts it, Tom Waits is more than just a musician; he’s an entity whose music comes from a place beyond this world.

So, the next time you find yourself listening to Rain Dogs or diving into the depths of Waits’ prolific catalog, remember that Johnny Depp isn’t the only one who believes Tom Waits’ tunes belong in a league of their own — an almost impossible feat, even for the devil himself.