subject: Best Guides On How To Sing Backup Vocals [print this page] Backup vocalists are the unsung heroes of music. Their task seems simple, but to do it well requires a lot of observation and practice. They have to sustain the lead singer's voice while blending in with the music, all with no drawing attention away from the lead vocalist.
Backup vocals can be difficult at first, but there are certain techniques you can make your backup vocal execution shine. Try these helpful tips:
Tip 1: Watch & Listen
To support a band with your vocals, you'll need to listen to them play. Take notice to their energy level, common notes, and volume. Watch the lead singer closely to get a feel for their pitch and modulation.
Listen to the band's recordings before you even get to a practice, if possible. That way, you'll be acquainted with their style and you can jump right in.
Tip 2: Learn to Harmonize
Backup vocalists have to harmonize with the lead vocalist and with other backup singers to create a smooth sound. Harmonizing is more than just a matter of blending voices, though; it means singing complementary notes with other singers.
Harmonizing vocalists sound a bit like a chord played on a guitar. Various notes are sung at the same time for a rich, lively vocal effect. Practice harmonizing with other vocalists, or with pre-recorded tracks.
If you're using a track, turn about the volume until you can simply hear the vocals. Try singing various notes to harmonize with the melody. If you've got a buddy to help you, stand away from them so that you can concentrate on singing higher or lower.
Once you're able to accommodate effectively, you can commence working on blending in considering the lead vocalist during songs.
Tip 3: Blend In
A backup singer should not be the high light of attention. It can be annoying to start singing too soon, or finish singing too late, leaving your vocals in the center when the lead singer has stopped.
The best backup vocalists know how to stop and start along with the lead singer. To do this, you have to be able to see the singer's face clearly. Take a position on stage where you can watch the lead vocalist for hints.
Tip 4: Perfect Your Phrasing
Proper phrasing is a big part of being a successful backup vocalist. You have to sound much like the lead singer in order to blend in and not disturb from the lead vocals. You can do this by matching the lead singer's phrasing.
See the lead singer and take note of their vocal habits, inflections, and vowel pronunciations. For the best blending, you'll need to resemble them as much as possible. You want your voice to be like an echo of theirs, synchronized and on pitch.
As you can see, there's more to being a backup vocalist than meets the ear. Just take your time and exercise as much as you can. Remember that your voice is an instrument that helps the band produce stunning music.
