Q&A: Is 39 too old to become a professional singer?

Published March 10, 2011

Question by helen troy: Is 39 too old to become a professional singer?
I have been classically trained when I was younger, and have done performances through out the years. I’m a R&B -Neo type singer. Make long story short, I got caught up in a non progressive marriage, and etc. If I didn’t have the financial means, it was also having to constantly move, and never being in the right place, to do music. Always ended up in very small places that it was really hard to find a producers.
But, I never gave up. So I learned how to compose my own music, and write my own songs, over the years. I’m ready now financially, to perform but afraid and doubtful at times. Sometimes I lose confidence because of my age. I feel no record company will sign me even if I get out and perform. So, what other avenues do I have for distribution, even if I start up my own my company? how can i get exposure? May people say i have a good voice, and i don’t look my age. They say I look about 30 or 31, sometime 28. But, I know it take thousands to get distribution, I believe. Does anyone know how I could distribute my own cd and get air play if the big companies would not sign me? I’m in Japan now, and was wondering if anyone had suggestions of how or what I could do to start? is this an easier break in market? I have always loved music, and don’t want to think I have miss my chance and see my life dream past me by.