vocalist

American  

[voh-kuh-list] / ˈvoʊ kə lɪst /

noun

1. a singer.

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vocalist British  

/ ˈvəʊkəlɪst /

noun

1. a singer, esp one who regularly appears with a jazz band or pop group

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Etymology

Origin of vocalist

First recorded in 1605–15; vocal + -ist

Explanation

Another word for a singer is a vocalist. A large band might include a dozen musicians, a lead vocalist, and a couple of backup vocalists to harmonize. In jazz, it's particularly common to refer to singers as vocalists — it's a way to emphasize that they are musicians, just like the saxophonist and drummer, only a vocalist's instrument is her voice. A guest vocalist might appear on your favorite band's new album, or a band might hire backing vocalists when they perform live. In the early 17th century, this word meant "speaker." It wasn't until the 19th century that the meaning changed to "singer."

Example Sentences

The trio, joined by the prolific vocalist, navigates a variety of genres—including jazz, funk, and Jamaican dub—on a record that transcends any one style.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Spalding is the vocalist, Maribal is on keyboard and Flaherty, the 6-foot-5 redhead, plays guitar.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

Buddy Guy, Shaboozey, Alabama Shakes lead vocalist Brittany Howard are also among the stars set to join the performance.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

"Siembra," released in 1978 with vocalist Ruben Blades, addressed social issues faced by the growing Latino community in the United States.

From Barron's • Feb. 21, 2026

The winning vocalist and instrumentalist would be invited to appear as soloists with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra during its popular summer season at the stadium.

From "The Voice That Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights" by Russell Freedman