James Woods Trades Acting for a Musical 'Second Act'

Actor James Woods, now 79, has embarked on a prolific "second act" as a songwriter, following his earlier career in film and television and a period of Hollywood blacklisting. His third album, "The Killer's Wife," released under his own label, Breakheart Music, is a concept record inspired by a true story from his past.

The album draws on Woods' early years on the road and a past relationship with a woman whose husband was a serial killer. Woods collaborated with musical artist Bob Wayne and four-time Grammy winner Shooter Jennings to bring the stories to life. The album's title track and featured song are inspired by the central question of why the serial killer did not murder the woman.

Woods describes "The Killer's Wife" as a "musical parable into the dark heart of evil, and the glorious triumph of good." Other songs, like "The Hearts of Men" and "One in the Chamber," delve into themes of wickedness and preparedness. The serendipitous meeting with Jennings at Dan Tana's restaurant in West Hollywood led to this musical collaboration, with Woods' wife, Sara, serving as art director for all three albums.

Woods' previous albums, "Hear the Thunder Crack" and "Tombstone Opera," also achieved success, reaching the Top 10 on Apple Music's country album charts. Despite past challenges, including displacement due to smoke damage from the Pacific Palisades fires in January 2025, Woods expresses contentment, describing musicians as "magicians" and preferring to celebrate art and poetry over past conflicts.