Being a famous singer raises risk of early death, researchers say

Lead singers in bands fare better than solo artists, but fame - rather than lifestyle or job itself - seems to be major factor

For those who hanker for the limelight, be careful what you wish for: shooting to stardom as a lead singer really does raise the risk of an early death, researchers say.

Their analysis of singers from Europe and the US found that those who rose to fame died on average nearly five years sooner than less well-known singers, suggesting fame itself, rather than the lifestyle and demands of the job, was a major driver.