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Background Singer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

If you have a strong individual (1040) background, you qualify. Some corporate tax is ideal but not required. To apply email a resume in a Word format to Robert Half. Or call Rich Singer, CPA at 848 ...

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Background Singer information

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$23

$56

$87

How much do background singer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for background singer in New York is $56.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.42 and $66.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background singer?

Background singers, also known as backup singers, are vocalists who support the lead singer or main performers by singing harmonies, backing vocals, or additional musical lines during a performance or recording. Their role is to enhance the overall sound, add depth to the music, and sometimes fill in for the main melody when needed. Background singers may perform live on stage, in the studio, or both, and they often work across various genres such as pop, rock, R&B, and gospel.

What does a background singer do?

Background singers enhance the primary vocalist's performance with harmonies and vocal cues in a song. In this role, you may work in the studio while the main performer records a song or album, or you may perform on stage during a live concert. Background singers may work on their own or with a group of other background singers; some work exclusively with a single artist, while others support different artists as needed. Depending on the needs of this job, you may only perform locally, or you may need to travel to different states or to other countries. This job should not be confused with a back-up singer who fills in for other singers as a replacement when the original singer is unavailable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background singer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Singer, you need strong vocal ability, excellent pitch, harmonization skills, and experience in various musical genres, often supported by formal vocal training or music education. Familiarity with studio recording equipment, in-ear monitors, and digital audio workstations (DAWs) is typically required. Adaptability, teamwork, and professionalism are crucial soft skills that help you blend with lead performers and follow direction. These competencies ensure seamless performances and successful collaboration in both live and studio settings.

What are some common challenges background singers face when adapting to different artists' styles?

Background singers often work with a variety of lead artists, each with their own unique sound and performance style. Adapting to these differences requires versatility in vocal technique, strong listening skills, and the ability to quickly learn new arrangements or harmonies. Additionally, background singers must blend seamlessly with other vocalists, sometimes on short notice, while maintaining professionalism in fast-paced rehearsal and performance environments. Flexibility and open communication with the lead artist and musical director are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Background Singer vs Vocalist?

AspectBackground SingerVocalist
CredentialsOften no formal certification, but musical training or experience preferredMay have formal vocal training or music education
Work EnvironmentStudio recordings, live concerts, tours with bands or artistsVaries from solo performances, bands, choirs, to studio work
Industry UsageCommonly used in music production, live performancesUsed broadly for any singing role, including solo and group performances

Background singers primarily support lead vocals in recordings and live shows, often working as part of a group or ensemble. Vocalists encompass a wider range of singing roles, including solo artists and band members. While background singers focus on harmony and supporting roles, vocalists may perform lead or supporting parts across various settings.

How much do background singers get paid?

Background singers typically earn between $50 and $300 per performance, depending on the production, experience, and union status. Pay can also be hourly, ranging from $20 to $100, with session work often paying more for experienced singers. Rates vary based on the project and location, and some background singers are paid per song or rehearsal.

What are the most commonly searched types of Background Singer jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Background Singer jobs in New York are:

What are popular job titles related to Background Singer jobs in New York?

For Background Singer jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Background Singer jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Background Singer job openings:

Infographic showing various Background Singer job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $116,980 per year, or $56.2 per hour.

Tax Accountant

Robert Half

Woodbridge, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

The benefits include healthcare, dental, and vision, flexible hours and closed on Fridays except for tax season.


A specialized tax preparation firm in the Woodbridge area seeks a Tax Accountant to handle the review of individual (1040) tax returns. This opportunity is unique because the Tax Accountant can work flexible hours four days per week with Fridays off for nine months out of the year. The firm is closed on Fridays except for tax season. If you have a strong individual (1040) background, you qualify. Some corporate tax is ideal but not required. To apply email a resume in a Word format to Robert Half. Or call Rich Singer, CPA at 848-202-7970. Salary is open depending on experience.


Some corporate tax is ideal but not required.


Robert Half logo

About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948