Let’s talk about pop stars who actually do play instruments in live/studio settings, despite not being known for it.
The voice is still an instrument = 0 pts
Obv Prince = 0pts
I remember on an older series of X Factor (2012 was the only one I watched, so must be that?) Katy Perry debuted The One Who Got Away on an acoustic guitar. I was in tears by the end - the single version isn’t as good.
See also, Justin Timberlake at the piano for 'Til The End of Time.
Eddie Vandross got the nickname ‘Luther’ from co-workers at the Indianapolis Renaissance Fair, where his facility with a range of instruments - including the sackbut, ocarina and dulcimer - coupled with good looks and monogrammed pyjamas drew the attention of visiting record company executives.
I remember the staff at Blueprint in Manchester telling me about when Justin Timberlake had been in to their studio. Apparently he had a few free days after playing the MEN so he’d booked some time to record a new tune for Duran Duran. I’m guessing it was just for a demo but the staff told me he played every instrument and did most of the engineering himself too, worked 12-15 hours a day, and his only request was some ketchup to go with his fried chicken. Left them all a massive tip as well. Seems like a good egg.
While in New York I went to a screening of The David Letterman show and Justin Bieber was one of the guests. They had him do a drum solo and though ianad, he seemed to be very good.
I’ve heard Dave Grohl is pretty good on the drums too.
Would love it if some really famous popstar is a dab hand with a really niche instrument…like a xylophone…but nobody knows because who wants a xylophone in “Despacito” or “Shotgun”? (Well, I would, but that’s not the point)