a backing vocalist

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a backing vocalist" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a singer who provides vocal support to the main vocalist in a musical performance or recording. Example: "The band’s new album features a talented backing vocalist who adds depth to their sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Before launching a solo pop career, Whitney Houston was a backing vocalist for Chaka Khan.

The Guardian - Music

Mayfield was discovered by the Black Keys and sang on their last two albums as a backing vocalist.

The Guardian - Music

Two weeks into an art foundation course she dropped out to focus on music, and toured with Paloma Faith as a backing vocalist.

The Guardian

Moby has been playing with a live bassist and drummer for a while; now he has added a turntablist, DJ Spinbad, and a backing vocalist, Dianne Charlemagne.

The New York Times - Arts

"Going from being a backing vocalist who learns someone else's material to teaching several people my material and being respectful of their ideas".

The Guardian - Music

Wilkin was also a backing vocalist on numerous hit records, and eventually led her own vocal group on television broadcasts of the premier country music show, the Grand Ole Opry.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Despite his budget stretching to snag the richest rapper of all time, unfortunately there was no sign of Dido for Stan tonight, her part as an ill-fated pregnant girlfriend instead played by a glamorous backing vocalist in a leotard.

The Guardian - Music

Will Champion joined as a drummer, backing vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist, completing the line-up.

Wikipedia

Caroline Sullivan of The Guardian wrote that because of the song's success, "Rowland is no longer a mere backing vocalist for Beyoncé".

Wikipedia

After his discharge in 1946, Hamilton returned to L.A. and briefly played drums with the Count Basie Orchestra before landing a gig backing vocalist Lena Horne from 1948 to 1955.

Los Angeles Times

In the following year he played in a quartet led by Sonny Red, with Dexter Gordon on one of the saxophonist's temporary returns to the US from Europe, and in a trio backing vocalist Etta Jones.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a musician's early career, highlight their experience as "a backing vocalist" to emphasize their versatility and foundational training.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a backing vocalist" only provides simple harmonies. The role can involve complex vocal arrangements, improvisation, and even occasional lead vocals during live performances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a backing vocalist" functions as a noun phrase identifying a person who provides vocal support in a musical performance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It often acts as a subject or object in a sentence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

41%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a backing vocalist" is a common phrase used to describe a singer who provides vocal support, as validated by Ludwig AI. This phrase is grammatically sound and widely used in both news and media, as well as wiki contexts. While alternatives like "background singer" or "supporting vocalist" exist, "a backing vocalist" effectively communicates the role. When writing about musicians, remember that being "a backing vocalist" is a diverse job; they contribute significantly to harmonies and improve the overall auditory experience. While Ludwig's examples vary, it is clear that the phrase is used to describe both a starting point and a continuous career choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Background singer

Focuses on the singer's position in the mix.

Supporting vocalist

Highlights the role of providing support to the lead vocalist.

Backup singer

Common, slightly more informal alternative.

Chorus singer

Implies participation in a larger vocal ensemble, not necessarily backing a solo artist.

Vocal harmonist

Emphasizes the creation of harmonies rather than just backing vocals.

Harmony vocalist

Similar to vocal harmonist, focusing on harmonic contributions.

Vocal accompanist

Suggests a broader role beyond just singing, perhaps including other musical contributions.

Ensemble vocalist

Indicates being part of a vocal ensemble, which could be a backing group.

Second vocalist

Implies a secondary role in terms of vocal prominence.

Additional vocalist

Simply describes adding another voice to the performance.

FAQs

What does "a backing vocalist" do?

A "a backing vocalist" provides vocal support to the lead singer, often singing harmonies or repeating phrases to add depth and richness to the music. They may also perform solo parts during a song.

What are some other terms for "a backing vocalist"?

Alternatives include "background singer", "supporting vocalist", or "backup singer". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a backing vocalist"?

Yes, the phrase "a backing vocalist" is grammatically correct and widely used in English to describe a singer who provides vocal support.

How important is the role of "a backing vocalist" in a musical performance?

The role of "a backing vocalist" is very important, as they add depth, texture, and energy to the music, enhancing the overall listening experience.