A vocalist is battling stage fright. How can you help them shine on stage?

I often remind singers that nerves are a sign they care deeply about what they’re doing. Feeling nervous means the moment matters to them, and recognizing that can actually ease the pressure. Instead of scolding themselves for being anxious, giving themselves grace to feel can be freeing—and that shift in mindset often helps calm the nerves.

Start by reminding them that nerves are natural—it means they care. Then help them shift their focus outward: Who is this performance for? What message or feeling are they sharing? Taking the spotlight off themselves and placing it on their purpose can calm anxiety and reconnect them to their why. Ground them in their preparation: go over key moments, do a light warm-up, even a short breathing exercise or visualization. Keep your energy calm and confident—your steadiness helps anchor theirs. Finally, celebrate their courage. Showing up while scared is still showing up. Let them know that fear and brilliance can exist side by side—and often do.

For me ,as a vocalist, one thing that always helped me is if I got to the venue early and was able to walk out on the stage and get the feel for it instead of just walking out cold to an audience. As long as I could do that I was OK, but if you’re not able to do that, you have to do a mental deep breath while you’re entertaining You kind of talk yourself down and get into the music. Try to focus on the gift you’re giving to your audience. Also, if you’re more of a vocalist, and not necessarily an entertainer, you can focus on the technicality of the song and that will often times draw your attention away from the fear. Other than that practice and just being comfortable in your own skin.

too: 1) Reframe nerves as excitement - both are the same physiological response. 2) Create a pre-performance ritual that grounds you - consistent warm-ups signal to your brain it's time to perform. 3) Focus outward on connecting with just one audience member at a time rather than the entire crowd. The breakthrough moment comes when you shift from "How do I look?" to "How can my voice serve this audience?" Performance anxiety fades when purpose takes center stage.

Helping a vocalist overcome stage fright begins with empathy and encouragement. I’d focus on three things: 1. Normalize the fear – Let them know even the best performers experience anxiety. It’s a sign they care. 2. Shift the mindset – Reframe nervous energy as excitement. Support them in visualizing success rather than failure. 3. Practice under pressure – Simulated performances in safe environments can gradually build confidence. Sometimes, just having someone believe in you is the first step to shining on stage✌🏻