Learning to sing?

[Cosmo420]

In my current band, we have a great singer. We also have a guy that does some backing vocals. But they have mentioned a couple times that they would like to have another person doing backing vocals as well. I'd love to do it, but I can't sing. I'd like to learn though. Are there any resources anyone can direct me towards to help me learn? The cheaper the better right now.

I don't need to be the front man. I just need to be able to do a little backing vocals from time to time...

 

[john_g]

Im in the same boat. There was a good thread about learning to sing for bassists. Its a sticky in this section (band management). I havent went through it all, but its worth a read.

 

[mpm32]

You say you can't sing. Is it you tried to and really suck or you open your mouth and nothing comes out?

The easiest way is to just do it. Let your band know that you're going to be trying stuff out in rehearsal and it may not work in the beginning but it will probably be better. This is key, if your band will support it you can go a long way in rehearsal. Also sing in the car, learn what your voice will and will not do.

Read some on the internets about proper singing technique, that will help too.

Then when you know you'll like singing and playing and you want to progress further, then go and get some lessons.

 

[Cosmo420]

I can make sound. I like to sing actually, but I just can't sing in tune. I don't have a problem doing it in front of people. I teach classes and give lectures on glass blowing so speaking in front of people doesn't bother me at all. I've tried in practice, but it just doesn't sound good.

I'll do some research. Thanks for the advice.

 

[KevInDaBassment]

Then when you know you'll like singing and playing and you want to progress further, then go and get some lessons.

+ 1

A professional opinion is invaluable, especially in something like singing. Also, even if you are hitting wrong notes at first, practice playing and singing at the same time, something I wish I got used to doing earlier in my learning.

 

[BassistForHire]

Link Removed

This is link to some very helpful technique and warmup CD's. I keep them in the car to warmup before gigs.

That said, I really didn't understand vocal production and how to breathe correctly until I took lessons.

 

[Raymeous]

If you dont have a recording of your bands tunes do that first.

Then sit down and try to sing along with it in the car to and from work or where ever you're going until you are semi comfortable hearing your own voice. This is probably the biggest hurdle, just getting used to hearing YOU sing.

Then sit down with the "singers" in the group and go over the parts. Once you break down who sings what, you can figure out your vocal harmony on your bass then practice by playing that line and singing it at the same time. This will help you with pitch and playing and singing at the same time as well.

There is a sticky that is there for a reason, but I think nothing other than experience would be better than you and the other singers in the car blasting the tunes through the car stereo and singing your respective parts.

 

[Slaphound]

I am in an original Rock band and we are getting ready for a gig this weekend. I just started singing backing vox, and I'm practicing as much as I can. I am trying to memorize the chorus' to a few songs. At times I am just barely vocalizing as I'm just getting my legs under me. I may not be ready for all of the songs but a few. Good luck

 

[Gopherbassist]

Just remember to breathe correctly. Keep your ribs out even while you exhale, it will make every other part of singing easier. Although breathing right can be hard in its self...