Singers Handbook

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Mistakes Singers Make 1. Hookah: don’t smoke yourself out the night before a show 2. Edibles: if you’re going to get stoned (not that I’m recommending it) don’t smoke it; eat it. 3. Scream: no screaming fight with your boyfriend/girlfriend/manager. Same for going to a sporting event and cheering. 4. Phone: a show day isn’t...

Lip-syncing: An Unnecessary Evil

There has been a lot of press about the fact that artists lip-synched at the BET Awards show. The fans are disappointed and other artists are disapproving. So am I.

Five Touring Tips

Beyoncé just announced she’s doing a world tour. Miguel just returned from one. Some singers tour the country in a van and some fly from city to city; however you travel, touring is essential to a successful music career. But how do you keep your voice in shape during a tour?

The Charisma Factor

Whether you are trying to get signed to a record label or are creating a career for yourself independently, you need great songs and a great voice but there is another more elusive element, sometimes called charisma.

Advice for ‘The Voice’ Auditions

I was the vocal coach for two singers who were on a recent season of The Voice and several others from prior seasons. After watching them go through the audition process I have some thoughts about how to survive and endure.

Why Do Singers Take Out Their Earpieces?

Why do singers wear earpieces and why do they sometimes pull them out?

Charisma, The Sequel

If you read part one of this series, The Charisma Factor, you know that charisma involves being comfortable inside of your personality in front of an audience. Your songs, your voice, your relationship with the band and your relationship with the audience should reflect your point of view, your concept.

Q&A: Drummer Vs. Singer

My drummer plays so hard and loud that I can’t hear myself sing. I’ve asked him to tone it down but he tells me to sing harder.

Conquering Stage Fright

When you perform, you get nervous. That will probably always happen because you care about doing well and that causes a surge in adrenaline. Stage fright is a more extreme reaction. Your heart beats hard, your breathing becomes short, your voice shaky and you are too self-conscious to have any comfort or freedom.

Auditioning For The Voice or American Idol

Every major city in the country has auditions for a TV talent show. American Idol, America’s Got Talent, The X-Factor and The Voice are just a few of the shows that hold auditions. Even if you’re not in a major city, you’re probably near enough to get there for one of the dates. How do you prepare for an audition and how can you make the best possible showing?