Maybe you dream of becoming a world-famous singer. No completely certain path to fame, but
here are some things you can do to increase your
odds.
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Steps
1
Be determined and persistent. There's a lot of
competition out there - thousands of people want
the fame and fortune of a successful singing
career. Most successful singers spend years
working on their voices and playing low-paying
gigs before they make it big. Don't lose sight of
your goal, and resolve to be patient.
2
Conquer your fears. Contrary to what you might
think, a lot of performers struggle with severe
stage fright. If this is a problem for you, or if
you're too hung up on getting the approval of
others, find ways to confront your fears and
increase your confidence. Sing in front of others
often, whether it's in the car with friends or on a
stage, and remember that others' opinions of you
are not what's important - what matters is that
you're working toward your dream.
3
Start with one good song that you sing great.
Once you got that work on your next best song.
Before you know it, you'll have a whole night
covered, a gig of good stuff.
4
Breathe, breathe deep, more air than you will
possibly ever need to do the song. Don't run out
of breath or power.
5
If you don't write your own songs, pick good
covers. A lot of singers don't write their own
songs, and that's OK. Particularly when you're
first starting out, you want people to pay more
attention to the quality of your voice than the
quality of your songwriting. Build up a "set list" of
10 to 15 covers you know you can really knock
out of the park, and practice getting better at
them.
Choose a good mix of popular and obscure
songs. Just as you don't want to focus on
only Top 40 hits, you also don't want to be
singing only songs that no one recognizes.
Provide a fresh take on a classic. A good
way to get a cover noticed is drastically
altering the tone, tempo or instrumentation of
a popular song. Compare the several
different versions of "Hallelujah," or listen to
the Civil Wars' cover of Michael Jackson's
"Billie Jean."
6
Sing in public whenever possible. Book as many
gigs as you can to get your voice out there - you
never know who will be listening in the audience.
Sing at private parties, county fairs, store
openings, rodeos, sporting events, talent shows,
karaoke nights, and anywhere else that will have
you, paid or not. Even if you don't get spotted by
a talent agent right away, you're practicing your
stage presence and getting used to being in front
of a crowd.
7
Start a YouTube channel. Some people have
actually managed to become famous through
posting videos of themselves singing on
YouTube. (See Charice Pempengco, Austin
Mahone, Greyson Chance and, most importantly,
Justin Bieber.)
Remember: the Internet isn't always a kind
place. If you're not sure your voice is great,
it might be wise to hold off until you have
some more training. You might get
accolades online, but you also might
encounter people who are out to tear you
down.
Additionally, it's wise to keep in mind that
the things you post online will, in a way, live
forever. Only post work you'd be proud to
have anyone see, and that you think you'll
still be proud of in 10 years.
Do not post on YouTube if you're underage.
If you're a minor, ask one of your parents to
help you post content.
8
Become a publicity hound. Eat, breathe, and
sleep attention. Look for photo ops. Speak up.
Swipe up any chance to shake up the spotlight.
Make yourself known .
9
Network. Be in the places where successful
musicians/producers meet (clubs, dance halls)
and act like you're part of the industry, even if
they don't know who you are. Go to a city known
for music (such as Nashville, Memphis, NYC, LA,
New Orleans, Austin or Las Vegas) and mix it up
with the local musicians.
Make connections with other musicians. You
never know who might want to collaborate
with you in the future, or introduce you to an
agent. Take the time to be friendly and
interested in the other person's career.
10
Always show your best. When you're on-stage
or networking with industry professionals, turn
on the charm. Smile big, answer questions, and
sing with enthusiasm, even if you're feeling
terrible. Part of working in entertainment is being
able to create an atmosphere of fun and energy,
as if you're flipping a light switch.
Don't pull any diva antics on people who
become your fans. Remember that fans can
propel you from obscurity to fame. Sign
autographs, answer questions, and take
pictures after the show.
11
Learn how to handle criticism. Hey, it happens -
no matter how great you are, some people just
won't like your voice. Even world-famous
singers have people who dislike them. Only
listen to constructive criticism if it can actually
help you improve your talent; otherwise, ignore
it. Don't get into arguments or fights regarding
your dreams, and walk away from any hecklers
- odds are, they're just jealous.
12
Accept rejection and move on. It's not common
knowledge, but a lot of great musical acts were
turned down several times before signing to a
label, including the Beatles. If someone doesn't
want to work with you, it's his or her loss -
move on to the next opportunity and keep your
chin up.
13
Know how to recognize a scam. Once word gets
out that you're interested in pursuing a musical
career, you might find yourself being targeted by
scammers with bad contracts. Keep these things
in mind:
If an agent or a label wants to sign you, it
shouldn't cost you any money - you're being
signed because the agent thinks you can
make money for him or her, as well as for
yourself. Don't consent to any contracts that
require you to pay for demos, vocal training,
or anything else. Remember: a good agent
gets paid when you're successful, not
before you've even done anything.
If you do get offered a contract, read it
carefully. It might be worth it to pay a lawyer
to go over it with you. It might cost you a
few hundred dollars up-front, but it could
save you thousands in the long run.
Never settle for a verbal agreement. Always
demand a written contract where money or
rights are concerned.
14
Consider joining forces with a band (optional). If
you don't play an instrument, it might be wise to
join a band that can provide instrumentation for
you. Be aware, though, that once you're part of a
band, you're honor-bound to share some level of
your success - you can't pursue a career as
selfishly as you would if you were a solo act.
Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making
a decision.
15
Keep improving. Whether you keep taking vocal
lessons or practice on your own, never stop
trying to get better at singing. Practice as often
as you can, and challenge yourself with new
material. Doing this will help you feel confident
that when you do get noticed, you'll be at your
best.