Can u go to a trade school or do u have to go to a four year college to be a singer?

When I was studying a particular area of entertainment, I was of the opinion that you either "had it" or you "didn't have it" with respect to any talent or ability. As time went on, I saw many of my cast mates taking classes from voice coaches, taking music lessons, joining other troupes, getting their teeth straightened, and so on. I just hadn't considered all that extra effort that folks were willing to expend.

Here's the deal. In any endeavor, and particularly in entertainment, you're in a competition with other people are are willing to go the extra mile. You never know what abilities and education and skills and odd experiences will come in handy and will make you stand out from the crowd.

There are people in every job that are simply good, very good, and have no formal education or training. Or trained themselves. Or took a job and got promoted to other positions based on their practical, on the job experience alone. But even those people would likely have been even better if they had formal training. Because formal training comes from other people, and the rest of the world likely has experienced a lot more than you ever could by yourself, and can share something.

No, you don't have to go to college or any school or hire a coach or mentor to be most things. Some occupations require a degree and certification, but entertainment in general is not in that category. But does it help? Millions of people seem to think so, so take advantage of whatever education and training and advice you can.

To be a rock singer, you don't have to go to a trade school or college either. I encourage you to go to school, to study music or any major, while you pursue your work as a singer.

In addition to school, find a really great vocal coach. That could take some serious research on your part because so many musicians moonlight as instructors but, sadly, aren't that good. The more a coach speaks about the voice as a muscle and the various parts involved with singing, the more confidence you can have in their ability to help you increase your tone, projection, scale, and breath. (one coach of mine taught me some of the craziest exercises to do and one turned out to be the best way to get rid of the hickups!)

Start kicking around your local music scene. Talk to other musicians. Try out for bands. Work on your craft because that is exactly what stage performance is no matter the instrument, it's a craft - one that is built on your authenticity. Don't try to be anyone else. Just be you.

I HIGHLY recommend you get some business education too. As a musician you are self employed and need to be responsible for it. Know what you have to do so no one can take advantage of you. The legendary Leonard Cohen had to tour in his 70s because he was ripped off by his representatives. Don't let that be you, at any age.

Learn about music history. There are a TON of books out there by really important people in the industry.

1. Bill Graham Presents: My Life Inside Rock and Out
2. The Soundtrack of My Life by Clive Davis
3. Ticket To Ride by Larry Kane
4. All You Need To Know About the Music Business by Donald S. Passman
5. Ticket Masters by Dean Budnick and Josh Baron

Also, if you haven't, watch "Almost Famous" - it's a cautionary tale not a handbook

Lastly, I'm sure you've heard it from everyone in your life already but, I am not kidding you and I am not over exaggerating - DO NOT DO DRUGS and Do Not Over Do with Alcohol!!! That is an invitation for you to be taken advantage of, ripped off, used, abused and tossed away. Avoid being a stereotype!

Most importantly, be true to who you are as an artist and a human being, but never be a rude person.