What is a Backup Singer?

A backup singer, also called a backing vocalist, is a singer who performs supporting vocal parts behind the main or lead vocalist in a song or live performance.

Backup singers often perform harmonies, background vocal lines, call-and-response parts, or layered vocal textures that complement the lead singer. Their role is to enhance the overall sound of the song and help create a fuller and richer vocal arrangement.

Backup singers are commonly used in studio recordings, live concerts, choirs, and musical productions. They may perform on stage with the lead artist or record additional vocal layers during the production process to support the main vocal performance.