The eight songs Julie Walters couldn’t live without
Julie Walters is a true gem of British cinema. With roles in esteemed movies like Harry Potter, Mamma Mia!, Billy Elliot, and Paddington, Walters has captivated audiences with her extraordinary talent, versatility, and undeniable charm.
Initially pursuing a career in nursing before discovering her passion for acting, Walters’ journey to stardom began with her portrayal of the spirited hairdresser Rita in the 1983 film adaptation of Willy Russell’s play Educating Rita. Walters’ performance earned her widespread acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for ‘Best Actress’, catapulting her to international fame.
Although the 1980s and 1990s saw Walters effortlessly showcasing her prowess as a versatile actor, it was her portrayal of Molly Weasley in Harry Potter that endeared her to a new generation of movie fans. As the warm and fiercely protective matriarch of the Weasley family, Walters brought heart and humour to the beloved character, solidifying her status as an icon of British cinema.
Beyond her impressive acting talents, Walters is also celebrated for her advocacy and support of various charitable causes. Her commitment to philanthropy and social justice reflects her compassionate nature and serves as an inspiration to many. She also enjoys various genres of music, even once sharing her most beloved collection during an episode of BBC’s Desert Island Discs.
“I haven’t got a huge collection of records,” the actor admitted on the show, which was recorded in 1985, “but [music] is important. I listen to the radio every day, and it’s important.” The star also discussed her love for singing, mentioning her previous work with Victoria Wood. Then, she revealed the first song in her list of favourites to be The Weather Girls’ ‘It’s Raining Men’.
Her next choice, Bob & Earl’s ‘Harlem Shuffle’, is one that offers a lot of nostalgia for Walters, particularly as it reminds her of a special moment in her life. “This takes me back to 1966, to the Locarno in Birmingham,” she recalled. “It was a wonderful time. I used to go with my friend, and my mum thought I was staying the evening at my friend’s, and of course, we were down at the Locarno dancing to Bob & Earl.”
Walters also mentions Bruce Springsteen’s ‘New York City Serenade’ as it “reminds her of the company” of the “everyman days”. JJ Cale’s ‘After Midnight’ resonated with the actor due to his ability to appear authentic during performances, while Carly Simon’s ‘Not A Day Goes By’ became an emotional favourite because, in her own words, “I love a good weep.”
Check out her full list below.
Julie Walters’ eight favourite songs:
- ‘It’s Raining Men’ – The Weather Girls
- ‘Harlem Shuffle’ – Bob & Earl
- ‘New York City Serenade’ – Bruce Springsteen
- ‘After Midnight’ – JJ Cale
- ‘Not A Day Goes By’ – Carly Simon
- ‘I Can’t Stand The Rain’ – Ann Peebles
- ‘I Get Along Without You Very Well’ – Carly Simon
- ‘T’aint Nobody’s Business If I Do’ – Billie Holiday
