How to Sing Backup

Singing “backup” is a learned skill and it is much harder than one might think. More than just hitting the right notes,there is a much larger degree of listening, reacting and nuance involved. In order to learn how to sing backup you must be very sensitive to the main vocalist. Sensitive to phrasing, amplitude (how loud they are) and especially to where they begin and end their breaths and lines.

First, if you are in a band or ensemble where you have some control over where you sit or stand, position yourself so you can see the main singer’s face and mouth at all times. If you cannot see their face, it makes it much harder to match their phrasing and breathing. In this way you can also be prepared should they decide (and they will) to improvise or alter course either intentionally or otherwise. Now, do not get lost in your own part, watch them as you sing. If you can fix this habit in your mind from the beginning you will be a much more effective backup singer. This also enables you to react when they want to change direction, repeat a chorus or some other spur-of-the-moment decision which is often initiated by a nod of the head or a wink of the eye. You get the picture.

Listen!

You must listen to the dynamics of the band or ensemble at all times. If you are in a situation where there is a conductor, that is one thing; but if you are in a band you will have no such luxury and you are on your own in this regard. Listen and learn to blend. How? Well you do not begin the phrase until they do, for one thing. It may not seem that easy, but if you watch them and be aware of where they start, you can blend into the phrase. You can start very quietly and gradually come up to their level if you are not sure when they are starting or at what level of dynamics. Also, it is very helpful to not overly pronounce the first consonant in the phrase, so as not to conflict with their starting point or their particular pronunciation. If the first word was, say “papa”, you might only begin with “a-pa” so as to let them begin the first consonant alone and prevent the popping of multiple “p’s”.

The same thing applies to the ending of phrases. Pay attention to the dynamics and watch the leader and you can drift off your vocal as they end their phrasing and you will be a professional backup singer in no time.

Backup singing requires some considerable element of unselfishness. If you only want to hear yourself, then you cannot learn how to sing backup. The very definition of the word implies, nay requires, that your part is subservient to the main part. It is no less important to you, no doubt, but it is secondary by definition. If you can control your ego and learn to be a "second fiddle" then you can be an effective backup singer. The next time you have to sing backup, remember these secrets and put them to good use and you will feel the satisfaction of a job well done.

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