Just like any other skill, singing requires time and practice.

Of course, some people are born with a naturally beautiful voice, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have to work on it. 

And that’s good news for anyone who wants to improve their voice.

In today’s ultimate singing guide, we will take you through all the basics – from vocal exercises to …. 

In other words, we will teach you how to sing well, and more importantly, how to keep improving your skills. 

Part 1 – Starting Out 

Chapter 1: Before You Start 

1.1. Benefits of Singing – 7 Reasons and Benefits 

Besides improving your voice and expanding your vocal range, singing lessons can be beneficial to you in so many ways.

Listening to music has been shown to have numerous health benefits, and being a part of the music (whether you sing or play an instrument) is a whole other level. 

So if you’re not sure if taking singing lessons is something you want or need to do, these facts about singing might affect your decision.

Reason #1: Singing improves breathing

First of all, singing involves deep and controlled breathing and the overall controlled use of muscles in the respiratory system. 

Therefore, regular singing will ultimately improve your lung function and breathing. 

Reason #2: It’s good for your posture

When singing, you need to pay attention to your posture.

That being said, taking singing lessons will help you maintain good posture all the time. 

Reason #3: It boosts confidence

Gaining singing skills is also good for your confidence. 

Becoming a good singer and performer requires feeling comfortable in front of people, but the performance itself can also make you feel good in your own skin. 

Reason #4: Singing improves memory

As a singer, you’ll need to memorize lyrics and melodies, and you’ll generally have to be focused on multiple things at once.

Therefore, learning how to sing is good for your brain – it will improve your memory as well as your concentration and cognitive skills.

Reason #5:  Singing makes you feel better

Singing has been shown to release endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine – the so-called ‘happy’ chemicals. 

Singing is indeed effective as a stress reliever, which makes it very beneficial to your mental health. 

Reason #6: It develops creativity

Singers also tend to express themselves through singing.

So with time, you’ll become more self-aware as well as creative.

Reason #7: It makes you feel connected 

Finally, singing can also make you feel more connected to other people, especially if you’re singing in a group or taking singing lessons with fellow learners.

Are there any disadvantages to learning how to sing? 

Honestly, it’s hard to think of any disadvantages of learning how to sing.

The only potential drawback of taking singing lessons is the possibility of damaging your vocal cords. If you overuse your voice, you can end up with hoarseness, vocal fatigue, and throat pain.

However, if you take care of your voice and approach your lessons in the right way, you’ll be less likely to have to deal with such a situation. 

1.2. What to Expect 

In terms of price, singing is obviously less expensive than playing an instrument. You already have your instrument – your voice.

However, just like any other skill, singing requires dedication and practice. And that entails finding a good learning source.

Is learning how to sing expensive?

If you want to learn how to sing by yourself, there are plenty of options for you to explore. You can opt for an online singing program, find an online teacher, or use a singing app.

Of course, in-person lessons are more expensive, but they will provide you with many benefits, including direct feedback, personal guidance, and so on. But we’ll come back to the benefits of in-person as well as online singing lessons later on.

Singing lessons generally cost between $50-$100 per hour. But that also depends on your goals and abilities. 

When it comes to singing expenses, finding a good learning source will probably be your biggest expense. Apart from that, you’ll maybe want to invest in some worksheets, books (if you want to learn more), and recording devices or programs. 

All things considered, singing really isn’t an expensive hobby. You don’t have to invest in pricey instruments and their accessories. Plus, there are many affordable singing lessons out there – you just need to find a program that fits your goals and preferences.

Can anyone learn how to sing?

See also: Can Anyone Learn to Sing?

Another burning question regarding singing is, can anyone learn how to sing? 

The short answer is yes. It’s absolutely possible to learn how to sing properly. 

In fact, no one is born with singing abilities. You can be born with a beautiful voice, but you need to learn how to use it.

Even the best singers out there started somewhere. And it takes a lot of practice to master your craft. But with the right tools and regular practice, you’ll be on the right track.

Of course, talent can be a huge advantage in learning how to sing perfectly. But work, dedication, and the right learning tools will teach you how to be a singer. 

So even if you believe you sound like a crying cat when singing in the shower, don’t worry, anyone can learn how to become a better singer. After all, that’s why we’re here – to help you build a good foundation and provide you with useful singing tips and tricks.

via GIPHY

How much do I need to practice to improve my voice? 

So how much are you supposed to practice to improve your voice? 

Well, that depends on your goals. If you want to become a skilled singer, you’ll have to practice regularly and consistently. And you’ll certainly have to hire a singing coach.

And if you just want to sound good at karaoke, you don’t have to put all your extra time into your singing practice.

But whatever your goals are, the most important thing about learning how to sing well is consistency. Ideally, you should practice at least 30 minutes a day. Even a 15-minute practice session will do you good – that way, you can easily incorporate your practice into your daily routine, but you’ll also be able to make progress. 

Either way, gaining singing skills takes time. But once vocal exercises become a part of your routine, everything will be easier.

1.3. What Age is the Best to Learn How to Sing? 

Now, what is the best age to start singing lessons?

First of all, we want to point out that it’s never too late to start singing. In fact, adult learners have many advantages.

On the other hand, if you start working on your singing skills as a child, you’re more likely to become a great singer in your adulthood.

Learning How to Sing as a Child

Children are normally ready to start singing at the age of 7 to 9 years. However, children with talent and interest in singing can start as early as 3 or 4 years.

But when it comes to formal vocal training, it’s better to start later on.

So even though our voice continues to mature throughout life, learners of all ages can benefit from singing lessons. After all, singing is all about technique, and kids can be very good at learning new skills.

Plus, singing can be a lot of fun for kids. Unlike piano or guitar lessons, singing lessons can be a group activity, and that ultimately makes it more exciting for children. 

Learning How to Sing as an Adult 

Adult learners have many advantages too. 

First of all, adults are used to having responsibilities and sticking to their schedules. Therefore, taking singing lessons and maintaining regular practice won’t be that difficult. 

As an adult, you will also be able to learn effectively and at your own pace because you already know what your learning habits are. 

Also, you probably have some singing experience, even if that only includes singing your heart out during concerts. Either way, you’ve already started developing singing skills, even if that doesn’t really count as a lesson. 

At the end of the day, you should think of your age as your ally. You have more life experience than a child, and therefore more knowledge – all of this will help you acquire certain skills and understand complex musical terms.

Chapter 2: How to Find Singing Lessons 

2.1. Finding Singing Lessons

If you want to learn how to sing on a professional level, we definitely suggest hiring a private singing coach. That way, you’ll get all the guidance and attention you need to bring the best out of your voice.

But you can also teach yourself how to sing. However, you need to learn how to sing correctly, and that requires finding a reliable learning source. 

Luckily, there are many great online singing programs out there. From well-structured online singing classes to fun and engaging singing apps.

Online singing lessons are, in fact, a great way to learn how to sing. They’re convenient, affordable, and efficient.

Some of these platforms even provide video lessons taught by famous singers. 

On the other hand, nothing really beats in-person lessons. That way, a singing coach can help you notice your weak spots and help you improve them. And you won’t need any special technology – it’s just you, your teacher, and music.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to your preferences, abilities, and learning habits. So let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of popular ways of learning.

In-Person Singing Lessons 

Pros:

• Direct feedback
• Clear guidance
• Professional teaching methods 

Cons:

• Pricey
• Lack of flexibility

Singing Learning Apps 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Fun and engaging
• You can choose your learning material
• Extensive song libraries 

Cons:

• Lack of quality feedback
• Potential lack of advanced lessons

Online Singing Lessons

Pros:

• Affordable
• Convenient (learning from home)
• Flexible 

Cons:

• Lack of quality feedback

Combination of Methods 

If that seems more convenient for you, you can also combine learning methods. For example, you can meet with a vocal coach once a month, and practice with an app or an online program in the meantime.

Either way, it’s important to establish a routine – you might feel overwhelmed or a bit lost otherwise. 

That being said, online learning programs are a great source because they usually offer structured learning. Lessons are usually linear, and you can move forward once you complete them. 

See also: Best Online Singing Lessons 

2.2. Other Methods 

With so many learning options out there, it’s easy to get confused. But don’t worry – once you know what you’re looking for, everything will be easier.

There’s no single best way to learn how to sing for beginners. It all depends on the best way you like to learn.

Traditional methods might be more expensive, but they will provide you with quality learning and clear guidance. 

Modern methods, on the other hand, turned out to be quite effective. Online programs and apps are designed to teach you in a quick and easy way. And you’ll probably have a lot of fun in the process.

So, you need to choose a learning path you believe it’s best for you. Luckily, we live in a time when it’s possible to get quality lessons no matter where you live. New technologies also allow us to learn in a productive as well as cost-effective way. 

2.3. What to Look For in Singing Lessons?

So, what should you look for in a singing program?

Well, that depends on the type of program you want to opt for. For example, if you decide to go for guided video lessons, you should make sure they’re filmed with good production quality.

And if you’re looking for an online teacher, make sure they have experience in singing the styles and genres you’re interested in.

Either way, your learning program should align with your singing level, preferences, and wishes.

And of course, you’ll need to find something you actually enjoy. Being motivated and engaged is important, especially if you’re learning from home.

So, find a singing course that sparks your interest – whether it’s a fun app, an inspiring teacher, or a well-designed online course.

Part 2 – Mastering the Fundamentals 

Chapter 3: The Correct Posture 

3.1. The Importance of the Singing Posture

One of the first things you need to do as a novice singer is to master the correct posture for singing.

Having good posture while singing is absolutely crucial. That way, you’ll allow the air to flow from your lungs. If you bend your body, that just won’t be possible, and you won’t be able to let your voice out.

So, to maintain the correct posture in singing, you need to pay attention to several things.

1. Good posture for standing

• Feet shoulder-width apart
• Soft knees
• Chest out, chin and neck in
• Looking forward

2. Good posture for sitting 

• Ceet on the ground
• Chest high
• Sitting on the edge of a chair
• Looking forward 

3.2. Singing From Your Diaphragm

See also: How to Sing From Your Diaphragm

Moreover, the correct singing posture is important because it allows you to use your diaphragm.

So how do you sign from your diaphragm, and why is that so important for the development of your singing voice?

Firstly, the diaphragm is a thin dome-shaped muscle located below the lungs. It’s in charge of the process of inhalation, so it basically helps you breathe.

Now, controlling the air is one of the basic vocal techniques. And since the airflow is coordinated by the diaphragm, it’s easy to conclude that the diaphragm plays an essential role in singing.

There are several exercises that can help you use your diaphragm in singing. For example, you can try breathing into your diaphragm – to do this, sit back and inhale to the point that your lungs are full. You should then exhale and try to isolate (or feel) your diaphragm.

Breathing exercises are important for understanding how your diaphragm works. Besides being beneficial to your singing voice, diaphragmatic breathing brings many other health benefits. 

Other exercises include basic vocal exercises as well as working on your articulation. So without further ado, let’s start with the basic vocal techniques.

Chapter 4: Basic Knowledge 

4.1. Your Vocal Range  

Before starting to work on the development of your singing voice, it’s important to understand what your vocal range is. 

In essence, your vocal range is the number of notes you’re naturally able to hit without strain.

The most common vocal types include:

• Soprano
• Mezzo Soprano
• Alto

• Tenor
• Baritone
• Bass

Once you know what category of notes fits best with your range when singing, you’ll be able to find exercises and songs suitable for your voice type.

Also, most people possess approximately a 2-octave range. But some professional singers have a vocal range of over 4 octaves. Some of the most impressive vocal ranges of famous singers include:

• Mariah Carey: F2 – G7 (more than 5 octaves)
• Ariana Grande: D3 – E7 (more than 4 octaves)
• Michael Jackson: Eb2 – F#6 (more than 4 octaves)
• Beyonce: A2 – E6 (more than 4 octaves)

There’s also a way to expand your vocal range, but more on that later.

4.2. Vocal Registers 

Besides your vocal range, there are a few different vocal registers you can sing in.

A vocal register is a range of tones produced in the human voice by a particular vibratory pattern of the vocal folds. So, vocal registers are generated in the larynx.

Starting from highest to lowest pitch, the main four vocal registers include falsetto, head voice, middle (mixed) register, and chest voice. 

As a beginner, you’ll first learn how to sing in head voice and chest voice.

Chest Voice vs Head Voice

The chest voice is the range of notes at the bottom of your voice, and the head voice allows you to reach higher notes.

So when you’re speaking, you’re using your chest voice. And when you sing, your chest voice will make you sound fuller and more robust; and you will feel the vibrations in your chest.

And since the head voice covers the singer’s upper register, it will sound much brighter. But don’t confuse your head voice with falsetto – in falsetto, the vocal cords come slightly apart, but in the head register, they remain together, giving your voice a more robust quality.

Whether you’re going to use your head voice or falsetto depends on the situation. Sometimes it’s better to use airy notes of falsetto, and other times it’s better to use a fuller and more resonant head voice sound.

Some singers also use a mixed voice, a combination of head and chest registers. That’s basically a place of transition between high and low notes. 

Singing in a mixed voice produces a full, bright sound that will allow you to sing smoothly. It’s similar to belting, but it is safer and more comfortable.

Belting, on the other hand, requires more skill – it’s a technique of singing notes in your head voice range with the power of your chest voice. And if it’s done incorrectly, it can damage your voice. That’s why you’ll have to gain some experience to explore this technique. 

As a beginner, it’s important to understand that there are different voices you can use. And with time, you’ll be able to transition with these voices as you see fit. 

4.3. What Makes a Good Singing Voice? 

Certainly, you want to learn how to sing well. But what are the characteristics of a good voice?

Vocal control

First of all, a good singer is in control of their voice. That means they know how to stay in the correct pitch, without wandering off-key. 

Vocal control is mainly powered by breathing – you need to use the air the right way, depending on the notes you want to produce. 

Finally, to have strong vocal control, you’ll need to master all the necessary foundations of singing. And that’s why you’ll need to be patient and persistent. 

Timbre 

In short, timbre is the quality that makes your voice unique. 

Just like different musical instruments sound distinct from each other, the human voice also has its unique tonal quality and sound. So in a way, timbre is the tonal color of one’s voice.

For instance, the lyric soprano is a rich voice with a bright, full timbre. 

One of the ways to find and nurture your timbre is to practice your head and chest voice and learn to recognize when to use each. And if you want to become a good singer, working with your natural tone is essential. 

Appreciating your timbre and performing songs and genres suitable for your voice type will allow you to bring the best out of your voice. But it will also make you stand out from the crowd. 

Musical phrasing 

If you want to sound memorable and interesting, instead of simply correct, you need to pay attention to musical phrasing. 

Expressive musical phrasing encompasses the lines you sing, your pitch, adequate volume, and good diction. And all of that ultimately makes you a good singer. 

Of course, don’t expect to master musical phrasing right away. This is something that appears in time, as a result of practice, taking control of your breath, and finding a way to express yourself. 

via GIPHY

Chapter 5: How to Improve Your Voice 

See also: How to Improve Your Singing Voice and Best Vocal Warm-ups and Exercises 

5.1. Vocal Warm-ups and Exercises 

If you want to improve your voice, you’ll have to spend a lot of time on vocal exercises. Some of these exercises can also be used as a vocal warm-up. 

Getting your voice ready for singing songs is crucial. That way, you won’t damage your vocal cords. 

But vocal exercises will also help you improve your technique, airflow control, enunciation, and your overall performance.

Humming

Humming is one of the simplest and best vocal warm-ups you can do. It might sound silly, but this is a great way to prep your vocal cords for a singing session.

Lip trills 

This vibration technique involves flapping the lips during an exhale. 

To do a lip trill, you need to place your ring fingers at the corners of your mouth, and then press outwards and up to lift your cheeks. Then you need to blow a steady stream of air through your lips to make them trill.

The sound you produce should be similar to what horses do when they flutter their nostrils.

Vocal sirens exercise

Just like the name suggests, this exercise involves imitating a siren. You can start low and climb in pitch or vice versa.

If you have a piano, you can also pick a note and glide your voice up the octave.

Hissing

Although you should avoid the hiss of an ‘s’ sound when we are recording with a mic because it causes plosives, practicing hissing can be a good way to develop better breath control. 

You can do a hissing exercise by expelling all your air or you can draw it out very slowly. 

Traditional vocal warm-ups 

If you know how to play piano, you can also go through some traditional vocal exercises. For example, you can try to sing a major scale (just like they do it in the movie The Sound of Music.)

As you progress, you can also explore other scales, such as the blues scale. The blues scale is particularly useful for popular music.

There are many other exercises you can explore, such as arpeggios and octave jumps. However, as a beginner singer, you can stick to simple warm-ups that aren’t too challenging.

5.2. Articulation 

Generally, articulation refers to the mechanics of producing speech – it’s basically how we create sounds. 

And in singing, clear articulation is crucial. If you want to be able to deliver a song’s message, people need to understand what you’re singing.

To improve your articulation, you need to pay attention to your pronunciation. You should also open your mouth fully and keep your jaw and throat relaxed.

You can also do vocal exercises such as tongue twisters, humming, yawning, and tongue rolls.

And don’t forget to maintain a good posture while practicing!

5.3. Improving Your Pitch 

One of the most important things in singing is to sing in tune. 

When you learn how to play an instrument, you know exactly where each note is. But in singing, you need to rely on your ears.

Of course, hitting every note correctly is hard, especially if you’re a beginner. And that’s why it would be great to use a piano or a guitar at first. Alternatively, you can use a piano app or a tone/pitch generator app.

After practicing matching your voice to an instrument, try to sing notes independently. You can use a vocal pitch app to check if you’re on the right track. The app can also tell you how steady you can keep the pitch. 

5.4. Expanding Your Vocal Range

 See also: How to Sing High Notes and How to Sing Falsetto

As we’ve mentioned earlier, every singer has a particular vocal range. For most people, that’s a range of two octaves.

But as an aspiring singer, you can also work on expanding your vocal range.

Similar to improving your pitch, expanding your vocal range requires regular vocal exercises. Lip trills and vocal sirens are very useful, for example.

You can also use a piano or piano app, hit the lowest note you can comfortably sing, and then move down one half-step. If you sound too breathy or off-key, sing it until it gets better.

Next, hit the highest note on the piano that you can sing without cracking, and then move up one-half step. 

Once you’re able to sing these two notes naturally and effortlessly, you can move on. But you should keep in mind that extending your vocal range takes time. That being said, don’t rush, and don’t strain yourself. 

Chapter 6: Vocal Health 

If you push yourself too far outside of your normal range too quickly, you may end up damaging your vocal cords. And being able to take care of your voice should be an essential part of your learning process.

One of the simple ways to maintain your vocal health is to stay hydrated. You can cause fissures cracking the tissue if you sing with a very dry throat. And the best thing you can drink is room-temperature water. 

Also, avoid sugary drinks. Some other foods and drinks you should avoid before singing include dairy, spicy foods, alcohol, chocolate, and other mucous-producing foods.

Another crucial step in taking care of your voice is a proper warm-up. We’ve already introduced you to some basic warm-up exercises you can utilize in your daily practice.

Finally, be mindful of your voice during exercises and performing songs. If it starts to hurt, take a break. 

If you want to become a skilled singer, taking care of your voice is very important. But it’s easy to forget about it, especially if you’re eager to make quick progress. 

So let’s summarize and take a quick look at tips to keep your voice healthy:

• Avoid greasy foods, sugary drinks, and dairy prior to singing
• Drink plenty of water
• Don’t skip warm-up exercises
• Take breaks during long sessions
• Don’t smoke

Part 3 – Songs and Styles 

Chapter 7: Songs 

Certainly, the most enjoyable and exciting part of your daily practice is singing songs. 

And although you probably want to jump into singing your favorite tunes right away, you should start with some easy songs for beginners.

You should also choose a song that fits your voice type. 

7.1. Easy Songs to Sing for Beginners

See also: Easy Songs to Sing and Best Pop Songs for Altos

Here are some of the songs you can sing as a beginner:

1. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra 

Frank Sinatra was a light baritone with about a two-octave range. He was known for his easy-going singing and smooth vocal improvisations. 

And although some of his songs require some vocal acrobatics, his signature song “Fly Me to the Moon” is fairly easy to sing.

Plus, it’s a timeless classic that you most likely already have in your ear. 

2. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

Many people classify Taylor Swift as a light lyric soprano that has the capability of an alto.

And if you want to add her music to your repertoire, her smashing hit “Shake It Off” is a great place to start. It’s fast-paced and energetic, but also easy to sing and memorize. 

3. “Shotgun” by George Ezra 

If you have a deep bass-baritone voice, you may want to sing songs by George Ezra.

His familiar, uplifting tune “Shotgun” is easy and fun to sing, even if you’re just starting out. 

4. “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers 

“Lean On Me” is a slow, gentle song with a basic melody and simple yet heartwarming lyrics.

Therefore, it’s a great song to sing when starting. 

5. “Sweet Dreams” by Eurythmics 

On the other hand, the timeless classic “Sweet Dreams” is more energetic and fast-paced, but it’s not difficult to sing.

Annie Lennox has a distinctive contralto voice, so if you want to practice hitting low notes, her music might be a way to go. 

Chapter 8: Practice 

8.1. Establishing a Practice Routine 

If you want to keep making progress and expanding your vocal range, you need to structure your daily singing practice routine. And you need to stick to your schedule.

If you structure a practice routine, even if you’re learning how to sing by yourself, you’ll be more likely to reach the results you want. 

However, in singing, there’s a thing as practicing too much. As we’ve already mentioned, if you push yourself too much or don’t take proper care of your vocal health, you may end up damaging your voice. 

That being said, it’s important to structure your practice in a smart and effective way. 

How long should I practice every day?

As a beginner, practicing 15-30 minutes a day is a good place to start. 

With time, you will build the vocal stamina needed to practice more every day.

How often should I practice singing?

If you want to significantly improve your voice, you should practice every day. 

But whatever your goals are, you should practice consistently – it’s better to practice 10 minutes a day than for an hour once a week. 

When to practice singing?

That depends on your daily routine and learning habits. 

However, try not to practice right after waking up or going to sleep. Your throat and vocal cords also need some time to come out of sleep.

Where to practice singing? 

This is also highly individual. You can practice in your room, in a garage, or at a recording studio.

Either way, it’s important to find a comfortable place where you will feel safe to sing out loud. 

8.2. Before Your Practice Session

Before each practice session, it’s important to prepare your voice for singing. And that’s where our vocal warm-up exercises come in.

Besides that, try to avoid eating certain foods (gassy or spicy food, for instance) and make sure you’re energized and well-rested. 

8.3. Structuring Each Session

After warming up, you can start your practice singing session.

Your vocal workout plan should fit your abilities, goals, and expectations. But whatever your goals are, your session should involve working on your vocal technique. 

Furthermore, you should also focus on song study. This includes learning the melody, memorizing the lyrics, working on your diction, and so on. 

8.4. Avoiding Common Mistakes 

To make the most out of your practice session, you should try to avoid common mistakes beginner singers make.

Of course, every learner has their own unique learning habits. What works for you might not work for someone else. Nevertheless, some advice is applicable to everyone.

That being said, keep these things in mind the next time you start your singing practice session.

Tips on how to avoid common singing mistakes:

• Don’t skip warm-up
• Be mindful of your breath
• Sing a song suitable for your voice type
• Don’t sing too loud
• Drink enough water
• Maintain good posture

8.5. Singing Goals and Motivation 

Setting clear, realistic goals is another important thing in your singing learning process. 

If you set simple, short-term goals, you will get a better sense of progress and you will feel more accomplished.

Of course, it’s hard to feel motivated all the time. Sometimes you’ll feel discouraged or tired, and that one high note will seem impossible to hit. But the important thing is to keep going.

Acquiring singing skills is not an easy job, and just like with any other skill, the road will get bumpy at times.

However, if you remember all the tips and tricks on how to become a better singer we mentioned today, your learning process will be smoother. And even if you come across some obstacles, you will be ready to overcome them. 

Chapter 9: Genres and Styles 

As an aspiring singer, there are so many music genres and singing styles for you to explore. 

So let’s take a quick look at the most popular singing styles and genres.

9.1. Pop

Many aspiring musicians decide to sing in the pop genre.

And singing pop songs is fun and exciting, but it’s definitely not easy. You’ll have to learn how to use vibrato, explore all your vocal ranges, and so on.

But there are also plenty of beginner-friendly pop songs you can perform. So maybe you shouldn’t go for Christina Aguilera or Whitney Houston right away. 

Pop Singing Tutorials

• Vocal Workout: Pop Music by 30 Day Singer 
• Singing Lesson – Taylor Swift: Style 

9.2. Rock

Rock is another popular music genre that beginner singers like to explore.

Singing rock will introduce you to more complex techniques and styles such as vocal fry (the lowest tone of your voice), growling, singing with distortion, and so on.

But for starters, stick to simple rock singing techniques and opt for songs that won’t put your vocal cords in danger. 

Rock Singing Tutorials

• Tips for Great Rock Singing 
• How to Sing With a Raspy Voice 

9.3. Jazz 

Jazz singing is characterized by clear singing, distinct consonants, and improvisation. 

This style of singing will introduce you to different vocal sounds and techniques like scatting and pitch slides. 

Learning jazz standards is also a nice way to work on your expression, articulation, and development of your personal style.

Jazz Singing Tutorials

• Ella Fitzgerald Vocal Style by 30 Day Singer 

Chapter 10: Exploring Greatest Singers 

See also: Best Singers of All Time

As a singing student, you’ll also want to learn a thing or two about the greatest singers of all time.

After all, you can learn a lot by listening to and watching professional performances, especially if you pay attention to their song delivery, technique, and expression.

If you have basic singing skills, you can try to imitate parts of their performance. And with time, you’ll develop your own singing style.

But before that happens, you can search for inspiration and explore the styles of some of the most talented singers in music history.

10.1. Aretha Franklin 

Known as the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin is arguably one of the best female singers of all time.

She had a warm, resonant voice and a vocal range well over 3 octaves. She was also stylistically diverse – her vocal control enabled her to sing in any music genre. 

But she is best known for her soulful hits and classics such as Respect”, “Chain Of Fools”, and “Natural Woman.”

10.2. Freddie Mercury

Freddie Mercury is hands down one of the best vocalists of all time.

He had incredible vocal abilities and an impressive four-octave vocal range. But he also had the work ethic, authenticity, and charisma to become a true rock star and music legend.

Queen’s music (especially songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Don’t Stop Me Now”) wouldn’t be the same without Freddie’s vocal acrobatics. 

10.3. Ray Charles 

And Ray Charles influenced many iconic musicians, including Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder.

He has a perfect-pitch expressive voice and a groundbreaking style. 

And he left the world a substantial musical legacy and timeless hits such as “Hit the Road Jack”, “Unchain My Heart”, and “I Got a Woman.”

Chapter 11: FAQ and Resources 

11.1. Free Online Resources 

Our final chapter is dedicated to online resources that can help you in your learning process.

If you want to learn how to sing by yourself, it’s important to find a reliable learning program. But it’s also useful to have free online tools and resources at your disposal.

Online Learning 

There are many websites that offer articles on relevant topics as well as online tools and even free video lessons.

And some of the websites that offer useful free content are: 

• Vocalist.org is a website that offers useful articles, practice guides, lessons, and so on.
• 30 Day Singer is an online singing platform that provides free YouTube tutorials and articles 
• Youtube is also a good source of information; you just need to find a reliable channel.

See also: 30 Day Singer Review

Recording Apps 

When starting out, it’s important to record yourself so you can hear yourself sing. That way, you’ll be able to find your weak spots and improve them.

Some of the apps that might come in handy are:

• Smart Voice Recorder – free and easy-to-use audio recorder for Android
• Smule app – a singing app for recording songs 

11.2. FAQ