A backup singer is a professional vocalist who is hired to perform supporting vocal parts on studio recordings and at live performances. 

What Does a Backup Singer Do?

Although many never step into the spotlight as recording artists, backup singers are among the most nimble, consistent, and skilled vocalists out there. Whether they're working in the studio as session musicians, supporting an artist on tour as touring musicians, or providing vocals for an advertisement, video game soundtrack, television broadcast, or film score, backup singers bring professionalism and versatility to the job. Most are freelancers hired by an artist, producer, recording engineer, or music director, and may choose to take on both studio and live work or focus their career on one area.

In the studio, backup singers—usually known as session singers—are trusted for their ability to walk into a recording studio, look over a piece of sheet music, and nail a part on the first take with little or no rehearsal. They're also known for their flexibility, providing vocals to artists and tracks across many different genres and shifting vocal style on request. In the course of a week, a session singer might work on a hip-hop track, sing on a jazz record, and do harmonies for a pop-country hit.

Live performing backup singers assist artists on tour, at special concerts and festivals, and during television broadcasts, bringing layered studio harmonies to life. If they're working with a pop star, live backup singers may learn and perform choreography as part of the job. In each setting, backup singers are expected to perfectly complement but never overshadow the lead singer—sometimes providing contrasting textures to the lead vocal, and sometimes precisely matching the singer's tone, personality, rhythm, phrasing, and accent. The bottom line? Backup singers are vocal chameleons.

Work Life Balance

As freelancers, backup singers choose which gigs to pick up, and usually work at local studios. While most sessions, performances, and tours are scheduled well in advance, it's not unusual for a call to come in at 11:00 p.m. for a session the following morning. Backup singers who accompany artists on tour could be away from home for some time, depending on the length of the tour.

Community

Session singers might work with new artists and producers in wildly different genres every day, so the ability to quickly acclimate to new musical styles and get along with various personalities is a real asset. Professionalism is another crucial skill—particularly punctuality, reliability, and focus, which help the backup singer get the job done without wasting valuable studio or rehearsal time. Responding quickly and effectively to direction from the producer or vocal arranger is also critical.

Finding Work

As with many freelance jobs in the music industry, starting out as a backup singer involves networking and cultivating relationships with people who can provide that first big break: other singers, producers, arrangers, music directors, and music contractors. Session singers should record a demo reel to showcase their vocal talent and stylistic flexibility, and be ready to sing anytime. 

Professional Skills

• Top-notch vocal technique
• Sight-reading
• Vocal harmony
• Vocal improvisation
• Knowledge of and proficiency in broad musical styles
• Excellent ear for pitch, tone
• Versatility
• Punctuality
• Reliability
• Collaboration
• Networking

Interpersonal Skills

Session singers might work with new artists and producers in wildly different genres every day, so the ability to quickly acclimate to new musical styles and get along with various personalities is a real asset. Professionalism is another crucial skill—particularly punctuality, reliability, and focus, which help the backup singer get the job done without wasting valuable studio or rehearsal time. Responding quickly and effectively to direction from the producer or vocal arranger is also critical.

Industries

• Film, Video, and Television
• Technology
• Video Games
• Advertising
• Artist Services
• Music and Audio Tools
• Radio and Streaming Music
• Recording Industry
• Health and Wellness
• Theater
• Live Music
• Opera
• Dance
• Orchestra, Chorus, and Band
• Education
• Arts Administration
• Journalism
• Church and Worship

Top US Cities for This Role

• Los Angeles
• San Francisco Bay Area
• New York City
• Boston
• Nashville