Do you dream of becoming a world famous singer? There is no path that will lead you to success with certainty but there are some things that could help you increase your odds.
Steps
Step 1. Be steadfast and steadfast
There is a lot of competition, as there are thousands of people who wish to have fame and fortune as professional singers. Most successful people always train their voices and play low-paying gigs for years. Don't lose sight of your goal and be patient.
Step 2. Defeat your fears
Contrary to what you may think, there are many who have to deal with the terror of the stage. If this is a problem for you too or if you depend too much on the approval of others, find a way to confront your fears and increase your confidence. Sing in front of other people often, whether it's in the car with your friends or on a stage, and remember that other people's opinions about you aren't as important as the work you are doing to make your dream come true.
Step 3. Start with a good song that you sing great
Later, focus on another one. Before you even know it, you will have excellent material for an entire concert.
Step 4. Take a deep breath of much more air than you need for the song
Don't lose your breath or power.
Step 5. If you don't write songs, choose good covers
A lot of singers don't write their own songs and that's not a problem at all. In the beginning, you will want people to pay more attention to the quality of your voice than to the quality of the lyrics. Make a list of 10-15 covers that you know will captivate the public and practice them until you get a perfect performance.
- Choose a good mix of popular and lesser-known songs. You definitely don't want to focus on just the most famous pieces or just the ones that no one would recognize.
- Go for a fresh take on the classics. A good strategy to get a cover noticed is to drastically alter the tone, tempo and instrumentation of a classic song. Compare the different versions of “Hallelujah” or listen to the cover of Michael Jackson's “Billie Jean” made by Civil Wars.
Step 6. Sing in public as soon as you get the chance
Book as many concerts as you can to make your voice known: you never know who will be in the audience. Sing at private parties, trade shows, store openings, sporting events, talent shows, karaoke, and anywhere else available, whether they pay you or not. Even if you don't get noticed by a talent scout right away, you'll practice your stage presence and get used to being in front of a crowd.
Step 7. Open a YouTube channel
Some people really became famous by posting videos in which they sang (see Charice Pempengco, Austin Mahone, Greyson Chance, and most importantly Justin Bieber.)
- Remember: the internet isn't always a pleasant place. If you're not sure if your voice is good, it might be best to keep practicing before posting videos. Online, you could get approval but also fierce criticism.
- Also, it is wise to remember that what you publish today will somehow live on forever. Only post videos online that make you proud to show yourself to others and that you know you will view the same way in 10 years.
- Do not post videos on YouTube if you are a minor. If so, ask your parents for permission.
Step 8. Make yourself known and take every opportunity that presents itself to be in the spotlight
Step 9. Network
Go to the places where musicians and producers meet (clubs, dance halls …) and behave as if you are part of the industry, even if they don't know you. Go to a city famous for music (like Rome or Milan) and mingle with local musicians.
Make contacts with other musicians. You never know who you might collaborate with in the future. Introduce yourself to an agent. Take the time to be friendly and take an interest in someone else's career
Step 10. Always show your best
When you are on stage or when you are making contacts with industry professionals, use all your charm. Give big smiles, answer questions and sing enthusiastically, even if you feel terrible. Creating an atmosphere of fun and energy, as if you were turning on a light switch, is part of the entertainment work.
Avoid diva tantrums with fans. Remember that it is your supporters who take you from darkness to fame. Sign autographs, answer questions and take photos after the show
Step 11. Learn to handle criticism
It happens: No matter how good you are, some people just won't like your voice. Even world famous singers are not liked by everyone. Only listen to constructive criticism if it seems to you that it can help you improve; otherwise, ignore them. Don't fight and get away from the haters (most likely, they're just jealous).
Step 12. Accept the rejection and move on
Not everyone knows this but a lot of great musicians have been turned down before signing up for a record company, including the Beatles. If someone doesn't want to work with you, they are the losers: you walk head-on to the next opportunity.
Step 13. Learn to recognize a scam
Once it is known that you are interested in pursuing a career in music, you may find yourself dealing with scammers who will offer you bad contacts. Remember:
- If an agent or a record company wants to hire you, they shouldn't ask you for money: if an agent offers you a contract it is because they think you will earn not only for them but also for yourself. Don't sign contracts that require you to pay for demos, voice tutorials, or anything else.
- If they offer you a contract, read it carefully. You may need to go to a lawyer to support you. Surely a consultation of this type will cost you in the beginning but, in the long run, it will save you money and inconvenience.
- Never trust a verbal agreement. Always ask for a written contract regarding money and rights.
Step 14. Consider joining forces with a band (optional)
If you don't play any instruments, it might be wise to join a group. In any case, be careful because, once you are in a band, you will have to share the success and the earnings and, therefore, you will not have a solo career. Consider the pros and cons before making a decision like this.
Step 15. Keep improving
If you take singing lessons or practice alone, never stop doing it. Train often and challenge yourself with new material. Doing so will help you feel confident that as soon as they notice you, you will be at your best.
Advice
- You don't necessarily have to look good to be a singer: be who you are.
- If you opt for extravagant attire (like Marylin Manson or Lady Gaga), be prepared to receive unkind comments. If you don't feel ready to wear something like this, consider being a little more pop or preppy and remember to always be true to yourself. Don't dress a certain way only if you think you will have more fans. Clothing must make sense to you.
- Believe in yourself without thinking about what people will say.
- Don't forget who you are and don't let fame change you - you may lose your true friends.
- Do not neglect your private life, such as your religion, your beliefs, your family and your friends.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether it's singing advice to a big star or an opinion on songs for a fan, you'll never be so famous or rich that you don't need support.
- Take a look at Tiny Tim's career. If he made it despite what he had to go through, then say "No, I'll never give up". Tiny Tim was successful because he never gave up. People laughed but he dedicated himself to what he loved with the talent and the right ingredients: to try and insist. Becoming famous in the United States for its rarity, he died on stage during a concert.
- Unkind people are likely jealous or like to make you uncomfortable out of envy.
