HOW TO SING WITH FEELING AND EMOTIONSHow many singing schools, singing teachers, vocal coaches, musicians or artists can relate to this question? I’m sure we all get asked this. The question we continually get asked during singing lessons is, “How do I learn how to perform and sing with feeling and emotion?” Well let us answer that question for you.
Singing is both an emotional and physical activity. The truth is, anyone can sing. You can be a fantastic singer however in saying that, reaching an emotional level when singing or performing will take you to the next level. You must always think about how you can relate to your audience and most importantly, allow yourself to connect with the songs personally. Connecting emotionally is what takes you from being a singer, to a great performer. When we look into developing our emotions we need to focus on the three following things.
Firstly, it starts with the larynx and the vocal chords. This technique is a placement of the vocal chords which will add distortion and texture to your voice, allowing you to convey different tones, emotions and feelings when you are singing during a song. We understand that all students have their own unique voice so during singing lessons, our singing teachers as they are vocal coaching will customise and tailor different scales and show various placements for the students to achieve a “cry” or “sobbing” sound. We also customise so students are comfortable singing within their vocal range. It really sounds as though you are crying or sobbing as you are singing certain notes or parts of the song. Another vocal technique is to bend, distort or finish off certain notes with your voice. If you listen to “She’s out of my life by Michael Jackson”, you’ll notice how he seems to convey so much emotions and one of the reasons is because he is adding cries or sobbing during the song.
Secondly, you must relate and emotionally connect with your song. Read the words and relate the lyrics to a situation in your life. Music is usually written from a place of emotion so if you can connect with it, you will be able to paint the emotional picture and express these emotions with your audience. Everyone relates to a song in their own way, for most people songs remind them of a relationship, an important event or significant time in their lives. You must always pick and sing songs you can relate to, especially if you want to reach your audience and touch their hearts and minds. Always remember to connect with your audience through conveying and delivering your emotions.
Finally, always enjoy what you are singing. If you are dedicated, committed and passionate in your craft, it will show through your singing and performance. Your facial expressions, hand or body gestures during a performance will happen naturally if you believe in what you are doing and this certainly helps with your stage presentation.
Don’t ever pretend or force yourself to do anything in your performance that doesn’t feel natural, it will be apparent to your audience. As we all tend to say “Keep it real”, be true to yourself and audience and always remember to have FUN!
Singing teacher, vocal coach and former lead singer of We Rob Banks, Rebecca Vox is using hand gestures to convey her emotions during a LIVE performance.