WordGarden.iovocalist
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈəʊkəlˌɪst/
US
- /ˈvoʊkəlɪst/
Meanings
Noun
a singer, especially one performing popular or live music
Beyond the definition
A vocalist is someone who sings. The word is often used in music when the voice is an important part of the performance. It can refer to a solo performer, a lead singer in a band, or someone who sings with a group. Think of Aretha Franklin, Freddie Mercury, or Beyonce—they are all well-known vocalists. You may hear the word when people talk about singing skill, style, or stage performance.
The word "vocalist" refers to someone who sings, especially in a musical performance. It is close in meaning to singer, but it is often used when people want to focus on the voice as the person's main role or instrument. You will often see it in discussions of pop, rock, jazz, musical theatre, and many other styles of music.
A vocalist does more than produce notes. They use tone, timing, and feeling to bring a song to life. Someone might be called a "powerful vocalist" because they have a strong, commanding voice, or a "versatile vocalist" because they can sing well in different styles.
The context matters. You would often use the term for someone singing with a band, performing on stage, recording music, or taking part in a choir or other group. It does not always mean the person is the lead singer, and it does not always mean they are famous or highly trained. It simply points to the singing role.
Think of Ella Fitzgerald, known for her scat singing and improvisation, or Maria Callas, known for her powerful operatic performances. Both are strong examples of vocalists. In the end, the word describes a person whose voice is a central part of the music they perform.
Examples
- 1
Band hiring
The band is looking for a new vocalist before the summer tour.
- 2
Supporting singer
She spent years working as a backing vocalist for pop stars.
- Phrasebacking vocalist
a singer who supports the main singer
- 3
Lead singer
Their lead vocalist lost his voice two days before the show.
- Phraselead vocalist
the main singer in a group
- 4
Jazz music
He is better known as a jazz vocalist than as a songwriter.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Critical praise
Critics called her one of the most versatile vocalists in the country.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- vocalistnoun
Forms
- vocalistspluralnoun