Every great song has a lead singer that blows you away. Who can argue with the tones of Steve Perry or Paul McCartney, the rich bass of The Righteous Brothers Bill Medley? One aspect of a hit song is the harmonies and or background singer who add depth to the song. Here are some famous singers who started out behind someone else’s voice…
We all love the Pink Floyd ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ album. Did you know the woman screaming beautifully (no words just screaming) is a Claire Torry? Floyd producer, Alan Parsons, had heard her in the bar one night and asked her to join the following morning session. Claire has also adder her vocals to Olivia Newton John, Procol Harum, Meatloaf, and the song “Love to Love You Baby” the 70’s Donna Summer hit.
Sheryl Crow began her musical career, not as a performer, but as a music teacher in an elementary school in Missouri. She did weekend gigs at the Holiday Inns of the world, and sang on McDonalds and other national commercials to make extra money while waiting or her real music career to take off. Sheryl appeared on stage for many years, not as a lead singer, but one of the voices behind the legendary Michael Jackson.
Luther Vandross, Darlene Love, Dusty Springfield, Glenn Frey, Mariah Carey, and most of the Beach Boys can also be heard as background singers years before their big break.
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