What Factors Turn Singers From Artists Into Celebrities?

A question that has been hotly debated for many years: what gives a singer celebrity status and turns them from an artist into someone people go crazy for, may not have an easily definable answer. Some singers seem to remain enduringly popular, while others have a hit song, and then simply fade away. But, while it may not be simple to define, there are certainly a number of factors that can impact a singer’s success, such as their musical and physical style, how well they connect with their audience, and how compelling their stage presence is.

Nowadays, social media also has a role to play, and top female singers who communicate with their fans on a regular basis, may be favored over others who shy away from the limelight. 

 

Below are just 5 of the factors found to influence the popularity of modern singers, and turn them from artists, into major celebrities:

 

1.    They have a unique sound

 

In a music market that’s saturated, standing out as a singer isn’t easy, and the artist must have a sound that is easy to recognise, and entirely unique. From songwriting that has an emphasis on memorable, catchy choruses and strong hooks, to new and exciting production techniques, a combination of factors can help a singer hit the big time.

 

2.    They have a strong visual identity

 

With social media playing such a hugely significant role in the career of all musicians nowadays, having a strong visual identity can be key to their success. Including not just the clothes they wear and how they style themselves, but the videos they release and their artwork, having a visual identity that is unique to them, and helps them stand out, will all contribute to their overall success and help create a lasting impression for fans.

 

3.    Their live performances are engaging

 

Going to a concert or gig is often the highlight of a fan’s year when they’re enthusiastic about a certain singer and love everything about them. As such, if they can make their live performances exhilarating and engaging, they stand a much higher chance of not just being remembered, but being loved.

 

4.    They have a positive attitude

Nothing gives a fan more pleasure than seeing their favorite singers happy and loving life. If singing makes them miserable and it shows, they’re not likely to develop a significant following, and certainly won’t become a much-loved celebrity. By portraying a positive attitude and image, singers can win over new fans and ensure that their existing ones love them all the more.

 

5.    They’re dedicated to their craft

 

To achieve lasting popularity, the world's top 10 singers must be entirely dedicated to what they do, and strive to improve their vocals, songs and image throughout their musical career. Churning out the same music, with no attempts to hone their artform, could leave them as one-hit-wonders, a far cry from the popular celebrities of today.

As you have read, defining what turns a singer into a celebrity has no single definitive answer, but there are a few basic things they can master in order to transcend the boundary between artist and celebrity. Who are your favorite artists, and are they celebrities, too?