Professional Singers: Defining Success in the Field of Music

The term professional singer often brings to mind artists with worldwide acclaim and massive followings. However, the definition of a professional singer is much broader and less dependent on fame and revenue generated from record sales. In this article, we will explore what it means to be a professional singer, who qualifies as one, and the nuances involved in pursuing a career in vocals.

What Constitutes a Professional Singer?

The core of being a professional singer lies in the fact that you perform singing as your primary occupation. This means that you earn a living or a significant portion of your income from singing. The term professional generally implies "as a profession", signifying that singing is your career rather than a secondary activity or hobby.

Earning a Livelihood Through Singing

Contrary to popular belief, a professional singer does not necessarily have to be a renowned star or achieve number one chart-topping records. The mere fact that you can sustain yourself through singing qualifies you as a professional. This can encompass various forms of revenue such as:

Live Performances: Concerts, events, and theatrical shows that pay for your performance. Vocals by Contract: Recording sessions, jingles, voice-overs, and singing for advertisements. Teaching: Private or group singing lessons, masterclasses, and workshops. Digital Presence: YouTube channels, social media platforms, and online teaching.

When Is a Singer Not Considered Professional?

Conversely, if you occasionally sing for money but your primary source of income does not come from your singing career, you are not considered a professional singer. For instance, someone who sings occasionally at local events or recordings may earn some money but primarily relies on another profession (such as teaching, acting, or even another form of entertainment) for a steady income. In such cases, they might be referred to as semiprofessional.

The Evolution of the Professional Singer

The landscape of the music industry is constantly evolving. In the traditional sense, professional singers often relied on record deals, album sales, and tour revenues. However, with the rise of social media and digital platforms, the boundaries of what constitutes a professional singer have become more malleable.

Modern Definition of a Professional Singer

Today, a professional singer can be someone who:

Uses social media channels to build a fanbase and connect with listeners. Publishes content (songs, videos, tutorials) to gain recognition and income. Participates in music festivals, events, and showcases. Works for music production companies, studios, and content creators.

These individuals may not be household names but still fall under the category of professional singers because they live off their singing careers, just in a more modern and less glamorous way.

Conclusion

Being a professional singer is not just about fame and fortune; it is about dedicating your life to singing and making a sustainable living from it. Whether you are a renowned star with millions of fans or a relatively unknown artist who earns a living from singing, you are a professional singer as long as your singing is your primary source of income.

The key lies in recognizing and understanding the nuances of what it means to be a professional in any field. For those passionate about music, the road to becoming a professional singer is one of perseverance, hard work, and continuous improvement, ultimately empowering you to build a successful and fulfilling career in the art of singing.