Qualities of a Lead Vocalist

“The lead vocalist (or main vocalist, lead vocals or lead singer) in popular music is typically the member of a group or band whose voice is the most prominent in a performance where multiple voices may be heard.  The lead singer either leads the vocal ensemble or sets against the ensemble as the dominant sound.  In vocal group performances, notably in soul and gospel music, and early rock and roll, the lead singer takes the main vocal part, with a chorus provided by other band members as backing vocalists.”
Wikipedia 

​Leading a worship team on a Sunday is no easy task. It is not merely singing songs for 30 minutes or so, there are other intrinsic skills, all working together to deliver a powerful ministration.   What are they?

Anyone that thinks being a great lead singer ( I prefer the term 'lead worshipper') is easy does not understand the skills required. Of course, anyone can stand up in front of a congregation lead and sing songs to some degree, but that is not what makes a good strong leader singer of worship.

There are a complex set of skills at play that may not be immediately noticeable.

I have seen and watched a great many worship leaders in my 26 years’ service. And I have noticed that the traits of a strong memorable lead singer are common to all of them.

The number one trait or characteristic I always notice is that they make it look so easy but I know for a fact that there is a whole lot more going on than meets the eye.

Here are my observations (in no particular order)

• Inspiring  - A worship leader will often have the skill to inspire the congregation or speak under inspiration (prophesy) 1 Chron 25 v 1-3.
• Energetic  -  Strong worship leaders exude energy. Many worship leaders do not move around on stage that much yet they exude energy through their voice and vocal style.  See Hillsongs video   Then you have energetic singers who cannot stand still and express every musical nuance and expression through their voice and body.  See Tye Tribbett video

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• Passionate  -  ‘Passion led us here’   They absolutely and unequivocally believe in what they are singing. Their love for God is evident in their vocal tone, dynamics and body language. If they are tired you would never know because passion and the love for God drives them on.   
• Engaging  -  A great worship leader engages with the congregation.  They have a way of bringing the congregation, musicians and singers along with them. They communicate through body language, eye contact and voice, encouraging participation.
• Open  - A good worship leader is willing to be open. They share testimonies and triumphs of their Christian journey; encouraging listeners through worship.
• Embracing  - They wholeheartedly accept and understand their ministry and calling. They embrace it. They eat sleep and drink worship.
• Strong Communicator - They are rounded communicators. They are able to communicate with a variety of people and personalities; having strong visual hand signals to communicate with the singers and Musicians. But not just singers and musicians. They also have to communicate with Church leaders, PA and Audio Visual.  
• Versatile  - They can adapt to any situation.  If something unexpectedly goes wrong with the mic, they adapt. If the service leader suddenly askes for an extra song, they get one ready.  If they are moving from church to church, country to country, they adapt to their audience.  They are always ready to make changes, if needs be. ​

Being a lead singer is not easy. It is very much a skill that is developed with time and experience.

​Mastering it takes a lot of hard work and dedication.

To Your Vocal Success

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