The voice is just as much of an instrument as any other instrument in the band. Like other instruments, it needs regular maintenance to stay in its best shape. Here are a few tricks compiled from How To Make Your Band Sound Great and The Music Producer’s Handbook to not only get the best vocal performances, but to stay away from a sore throat as well.
1. Remember the 3 P’s – Pitch, Passion, Pocket. You need all three for a great vocal.
2. You’ve got to hear yourself at the correct level to stay in tune. Unless you have a lot of experience, you’ll most likely sing sharp if you’re not loud enough, and flat if you hear too much of yourself.
3. Avoid alcohol, dairy products, tea, coffee and cola before recording or a gig. All will make it more difficult to sing by either drying your throat or increasing your phlegm production.
4. Choose the best key for the song. Better to change the key than hurt yourself or sound bad trying to sing something that you’re not capable of.
5. Take care of yourself. Gets lots of sleep and drink plenty of water before recording.
6. Rehearse harmonies without the band first. It’s much easier to learn parts that way.
7. Phrasing is everything in background vocals. Concentrate on the attacks and releases to stay tight.
8. Pay attention to background vocals. If they don’t sound good, then neither do you!
Remember: If your throat gets dry while recording, try some warm water, tea with honey and lemon, or Superior Vocal Health’s Throat Saver.
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