Jim Carrey Reveals His Top Two Rock and Roll Anthems Ever
Jim Carrey opens up about his all-time favorite rock and roll tracks, the significance of original recordings, and shares behind-the-scenes stories from his career and passion for music.
When the holiday season rolls around, it ’s hard not to catch Jim Carrey donning a green suit and a scowl as the infamous Grinch. The role, while iconic, came with its own set of challenges. Carrey reportedly struggled so much with the heavy prosthetics that he once considered giving up his $20 million paycheck after experiencing panic attacks on set. The makeup was so intense that he couldn’t breathe through his nose, wore massive contact lenses, and eventually needed guidance from a professional skilled in teaching people to withstand torture. It’s a far cry from the festive spirit, so if you find yourself watching 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas ' this year, remember what Carrey endured to bring the character to life.
Reuniting with a Former Co-Star
Alongside Carrey in the film was a young Taylor Momsen, who played Cindy Lou Who and has since become the frontwoman for the hard rock band The Pretty Reckless. Last month, Carrey and Momsen crossed paths again at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, nearly 25 years after their holiday movie collaboration. The Pretty Reckless took the stage to perform some of their hits, including a rock rendition of 'Where Are You Christmas,' a song Momsen originally sang as a child in the film. Reflecting on her experience, Momsen shared,
“As a young person watching an artist at work and taking their craft so seriously, that left a really powerful, lasting impact on me as an adult now. And I’m excited to be able to tell him that as a grownup.”
Carrey’s Rock and Roll Roots
Carrey’s love for rock music runs deep. At the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony, he had the honor of inducting Seattle grunge legends Soundgarden. He recalled hosting SNL in 1996, when Soundgarden was the musical guest, and how the band gifted him a signed electric blue Fender Telecaster backstage. Carrey, who became close friends with the late Chris Cornell, had insisted that Soundgarden headline the show, and the band showed their gratitude with the memorable gift.
Carrey’s musical tastes aren’t limited to grunge. He’s also a fan of heavier acts like Pantera and Cannibal Corpse. When asked by Parade to name his ultimate rock-out track, Carrey replied,
“Right now, it’s Black Crowes’ ‘Hard to Handle.’ But it used to be ‘Whole Lotta Rosie’, AC/DC. But you gotta listen to the original version with Bon Scott.”
The Songs That Shaped Carrey
‘Whole Lotta Rosie’ was released by AC/DC in 1977 as the closing track on their album 'Let There Be Rock.' The song, inspired by a real-life encounter Bon Scott had while touring, has become a staple at AC/DC concerts for nearly five decades. Carrey’s emphasis on the original version highlights his appreciation for the authenticity and raw energy of classic rock.
The Black Crowes’ take on Otis Redding’s ‘Hard to Handle’ appeared on their 1990 debut album 'Shake Your Money Maker,' which went on to sell over five million copies worldwide. Carrey’s picks reflect his deep connection to the roots and evolution of rock and roll, as well as his respect for the artists who shaped the genre.