Why I'm Selective About Vocal Features (and What That Means for Producers)
As a session vocalist and topliner, I get asked a lot:
"Why aren’t you featured on more songs?"
"Why can’t I find your name on this track - was that even you?"
And the answer is: yes, it probably was me. I record vocals for producers around the world - across drum & bass, house, melodic techno, EDM and more - but I don’t always attach my name to those tracks. And that’s completely intentional.
Let me explain…
I do want to be featured - just not on everything.
I’m building an artist project I deeply care about, specifically within drum and bass. It’s something I’m shaping slowly and carefully. When my name is featured, I want it to mean something. I want it to reflect my sound, my energy, my evolution as an artist.
That’s why I’m selective. Not snobby. Not difficult… (I hope) Just intentional.
If a track doesn’t feel fully aligned with what I want to represent artistically, I’ll still pour my heart into it as a vocalist - but I won’t ask for (or accept) a feature credit. And I think that’s okay. I think it’s healthy, even?!
I’m proud of the work I do behind the scenes. I’ve built a business offering professional vocals for producers - from exclusive toplines to royalty-free vocal samples - and I’ve worked hard to keep creative control while still delivering world-class results.
I do my best work alone. Hard to say out loud… but true.
A lot of traditional collaborations involve co-writing sessions, long back-and-forths, and layers of compromise. That’s not where I thrive.
I write, record, arrange and stack my own vocals in my studio - just me and the music. It’s a workflow that allows me to stay in flow, deliver faster, and consistently create vocals that connect. If you’re a producer looking for clean, emotive vocals with zero drama or hand-holding... that’s where I shine.
And if you are looking for professional vocal samples, you can browse exclusive and non-exclusive toplines in my Shop here - coming in all moods, genres, and formats, including dry, wet, and stack versions.
What this means if you're a producer…
If you’re hiring me as a session vocalist - whether through my shop or custom commission - you’re getting vocals that are ready to release, license-free (depending on the product), and crafted to elevate your track. But those vocals are not tied to my artist name. That’s by design.
If, however, you’re interested in a feature, a true collaboration under the “Kate McGill” name, it has to make sense musically, emotionally and brand-wise. I don’t say yes often, but when I do, I go all in.
Why I'm okay staying behind the scenes (sometimes).
This choice isn’t about ego or playing hard to get. It’s about protecting the long game. The truth is, I love that I get to contribute to so many incredible records around the world - sometimes anonymously, sometimes not.
And when it does make sense to step into the light with a feature, you’ll see my name front and centre. No hesitation.
Until then, just know:
If you’ve used my vocals, I’m still there. Fully, quietly and intentionally 😎
Kate x
PS for producers:
If you're unsure whether you're buying a “Kate McGill feature” or just hiring me as a session vocalist…
You’re hiring me as a vocalist.
All sample pack vocals and most commissioned toplines are non-feature, royalty-free (or subject to a publishing split if exclusive), and do not include my artist name unless explicitly agreed.
Want to pitch me a feature? Let’s talk - but send me your best. I’m picky for a reason 🫶
