FYI, just because I’m posting some tips for different instruments doesn’t make me a pro at everything. I’ve immersed myself in enough music and learned from some great people over my short life to know a thing or two.

As for vocalists in a worship setting, take these to heart:

• If you are a background singer, please sing like a background singer. Accent key phrases with harmony or simply serve to strengthen the choruses. You shouldn’t be singing all the time.
• If you are leading a song, engage the audience not only with your vocals but with your stage presence. Find the best way for you to relax and lead with confidence. This is key. If you are nervous you WILL make everyone else nervous. Not good.
• Work on your vocals like a pianist practices his scales. Your voice is a muscle and it needs to be worked to sound the best.
• Be sure to warm up before you sing every time! The shower is the greatest place. Your family may hate you for it, though!
• Don’t hype it up. Allow your passion for Jesus and the lyrics of the song to dictate your expression. Don’t just be hyped up because you are on a stage. This can be annoying to a congregation. People are inspired by genuine passion.
• Don’t be visually depressed. I always say worship teams are called to “go before the people” and prepare the way for encounter with God. We don’t manufacture God’s presence, but we discipline ourselves to worship first, drawing in those who are weighed down by the pressures of life.

Any others?