Make a website and demo reel. The Internet is a valuable resource for most professionals, and if you want to establish yourself as a singer, having your own website is a good first step. Use professional design, logos and simple layout to create a successful website. Record a demo reel featuring your best songs and showing the variety of styles you can perform in. Put this up on your website to attract new employers. Start to see yourself as a professional, and maintain this demeanor through your website and demo reel.
Play guitar, piano or any other instrument to back up your vocal talent. Being able to play an instrument can help you find work in hotel lobbies and coffee shops. Learn the basic open chords on guitar to be able to play many pop classics. Alternatively, you can join a band or begin collaborating with a musician to open up your opportunities. If you don’t want to work with real instruments or musicians, make a collection of backing tracks.
Approach small venues and try to find work. Start small to gain experience and give yourself a better chance of succeeding. Visit coffee shops, restaurants and bars and see if they need a singer or a band. Look for establishments that already have musical acts performing to give yourself the best chance. Be confident when you approach them, and be prepared to sing an audition or provide your demo reel. Approach bars and clubs if you have joined a band.
Play relaxed background music to find work in a hotel. This can be easier if you are playing a piano or guitar yourself or have a dedicated musician collaborating with you. Learn some relaxing or ambient songs and approach a local hotel to see if they are looking for any lobby musicians.
Set up at a subway or on a busy street and start playing. Buskers make money by amassing donations from the public. Be warned, people on the street haven’t asked to listen to you, so some people may not be receptive. Learn some popular songs and give it a go. Busking can provide valuable experience and increase your confidence level.
Look for work at weddings. Weddings are well-paying jobs, but generally only offer work to singers with experience and who sing the right style of music for the particular bride and groom. Speak to local wedding planners and invite them to your performances. Give them your website address and business card. It is important to have a band or musicians on call in case the couple requests them.