Singers

Any employment forecast for singers will most probably emphasize one factor that plays an important role in the availability of jobs: competition. Because so many people pursue musical careers and because there tend to be no formal requirements for employment in this industry (the main qualification is talent), competition is most often very strong. Talented singers who are skilled at promoting themselves on social media and the Internet should have better chances of finding steady work.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), employment for singers and musicians is expected to grow more slowly than the average for all professions through 2033. Demand for more music performances will create job opportunities for musicians. Singers will be also be needed to sing backup and perform in films, commercials, and television. Growth can be limited by the availability of funding for the arts.

The entertainment industry is expected to grow during the next decade, which will create jobs for singers and other performers. Because of the nature of this work, positions tend to be temporary and part time; in fact, of all members of the American Federation of Musicians, fewer than 2 percent work full time in their singing careers. Thus, it is often advised that those who are intent on pursuing a singing career keep in mind the varied fields other than performance in which their interest in music can be beneficial, such as composition, education, broadcasting, therapy, and community arts management.

Those intent on pursuing singing careers in rock, jazz, and other popular forms should understand the keen competition they will face. There are thousands of singers all hoping to make it; only a very few actually succeed. However, there are many opportunities to perform in local cities and communities, and those with a genuine love of singing and performing should also possess a strong sense of commitment and dedication to their art.