Lipsync

Lipsync, or lip-syncing, is the act of coordinating lip movements with a pre-recorded audio track so that the mouth movements appear to produce the sound. It can involve mouthing words while a voice is heard from a recording, or delivering live vocals that are synchronized to a backing track for precise timing.

In performance and media, lip-syncing is common in music videos, stage shows, film, and animation. It is used to guarantee vocal quality, manage sound levels, or accommodate difficult vocal parts. Historically, lip-sync-like mime and dubbing have roots in silent cinema and theatre, evolving with advances in sound technology and broadcast production.

Techniques vary from strict, frame-by-frame timing to more interpretive delivery. Performers may use onstage monitors or click tracks to stay synchronized, and may adjust facial expression to convey emotion while the track remains fixed. In some contexts—especially drag performance and pop acts—lip-sync is an artistic form in its own right, not merely a fallback to singing live.

Discussions about lip-sync focus on authenticity, artistry, and production needs. Proponents view it as a legitimate technique that enables high-quality performance and safety, while critics argue it can undermine live vocal skills. Regardless of perspective, lip-sync remains widely used across entertainment as a practical or stylistic choice, aided by advances in audio and motion technology.