When you hear a breathtaking vocal harmony or a killer instrumental solo on a track, there’s a good chance you’re listening to the work of a session artist. These behind-the-scenes pros – session musicians and session singers – are the chameleons of the music industry, seamlessly adapting their sound and style to suit the needs of any project. And while their names might not always be front and centre, their impact on the music we love is undeniable.
What Exactly Is a Session Artist?
A session musician is a highly skilled performer hired to contribute their instrumental talents to a recording session, a live show, or even a commercial jingle. They’re not permanent members of a band or act – instead, they’re brought in to elevate a project with their expertise. Whether laying down a bass groove for a chart-topper, adding a jazz flourish to a film score, or filling in for a tour, session musicians are versatile, reliable, and artistically agile.
A session singer, likewise, lends their voice to projects in a freelance capacity – recording lead vocals, backing harmonies, or even singing jingles and soundtrack material. Some might write lyrics or help craft vocal melodies (a role known as a topliner). Others might be hired to demo songs for songwriters or labels. From subtle harmonies to powerhouse leads, session singers bring songs to life.
What Do They Actually Do?
Session artists are called upon for all kinds of projects:
- Studio albums and singles
- Film, TV and gaming soundtracks
- Commercials and radio idents
- Live shows and tours
- Demo recordings for songwriters
- Musical theatre and corporate events
They may record a single riff or harmony, or contribute to entire projects. Some are also multi-instrumentalists or vocal shapeshifters, broadening their gig opportunities by offering a wider range of services.
Skills That Set Them Apart
To thrive as a session artist, you need far more than just talent:
- Versatility across genres and styles
- Sight-reading and/or strong ears to learn material quickly
- Studio discipline, stamina, and accuracy
- Vocal or instrumental consistency across long sessions
- Strong self-promotion and networking skills
- Professionalism, punctuality, and a collaborative spirit
And crucially: you must be easy to work with. Session gigs often come from word-of-mouth, and reputations matter. Being adaptable, prepared, and calm under pressure will take you far.
The Performer’s Life (Offstage)
While many session artists also perform live, tour, or release their own music, much of their professional life revolves around gig hunting, networking, rehearsing, and building a standout demo reel or portfolio. In today’s digital world, many now record from home studios – collaborating globally from their own creative space.
It’s not always glamorous – sessions can be long, clients demanding, and income varied – but for those with the right skills and mindset, it’s a deeply rewarding and sustainable career.
Why We Celebrate Them
Session artists may not always get the spotlight – but without them, so much of the music we love simply wouldn’t sound the same. They bring nuance, depth, and artistry to every project they touch. Whether they’re helping a fellow artist sound their best or breathing life into a new creation, session singers and musicians are the backbone of the industry.
So this #SpotlightSaturday, we celebrate the ultimate collaborators – the adaptable, skilled, and endlessly creative session artists who make the music world go round.
