Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common way to say 'vocalist' is ボーカリスト, a loanword from English. It is widely used in music contexts. The native term 歌手 is more general and means 'singer', but can also be used for vocalists. For specific genres, terms like シンガー (singer) or メインボーカル (main vocal) are used.
Referring to a person who sings, especially in a band or as a profession.
The most direct translation of 'vocalist'. Commonly used for singers in bands, especially in pop, rock, and jazz. It implies a professional or skilled singer.
彼はバンドのボーカリストです。
He is the vocalist of the band.
彼女は素晴らしいボーカリストだ。
She is a wonderful vocalist.
General term for 'singer'. Can be used for any type of singer, from pop stars to opera singers. Less specific than ボーカリスト, but very common.
彼女は有名な歌手です。
She is a famous singer.
Loanword from English 'singer'. Often used in music industry contexts, sometimes with a nuance of a solo artist or a vocalist with a distinct style.
彼はジャズシンガーとして活躍している。
He is active as a jazz singer.
Specifically the primary vocalist in a group or band.
Refers to the main vocalist in a band or group. Often used in pop and rock contexts.
彼女はグループのメインボーカルです。
She is the main vocalist of the group.
Similar to メインボーカル, meaning 'lead vocal'. Used interchangeably.
彼がリードボーカルを担当している。
He is in charge of lead vocals.
Describing a vocalist in a particular musical style.
Refers to a classical vocalist or opera singer. Formal term.
彼女は声楽家として訓練を受けた。
She trained as a classical vocalist.
Short for ボーカリスト, often used in band member listings or casual contexts. Can also refer to the vocal part itself.
ボーカリスト is specifically a vocalist, often in a band or as a skilled performer. 歌手 is a general singer, including pop idols, enka singers, etc. Use ボーカリスト when emphasizing the role in a band or the vocal technique.
彼は歌手ではなく、ボーカリストだ。
He is not just a singer, he is a vocalist.
バンドのボーカルを探しています。
We are looking for a vocalist for the band.