If you’re often dissatisfied with the quality of your singing, then you probably have some terrible habits. Use this list to evaluate where you may be going wrong.
Terrible Habits
Bad Musicality
To sing is to use the voice as a musical instrument. That means all the factors that apply to making other instruments sound good also apply to you.
1. Not knowing all your notes.
2. Singing in the wrong key for your voice.
3. No dynamic variety.
4. No tone-quality variety.
5. Chopping your notes.
Bad Preparation
Preparation is everything when it comes to singing well. Take the time to learn your music so you could focus on what matters most: expressing the emotion of the song!
6. Not memorizing your lyrics.
7. Not practicing your songs thoroughly.
8. Not planning your breaths.
9. Not warming up.
10. Winging it on stage.
Bad Technique
Bad technique limits vocal range, creates unpleasant sensations and compromises your vocal tone. Fortunately, a little strategic practice goes a long way in eliminating technical issues!
11. Singing with a raised larynx.
12. Tense jaw.
13. Rigid tongue.
14. Strained facial expression.
15. Singing in an underdeveloped range.
Bad Style
Even if you nail technique perfectly, bad style will still ruin your singing. If you don’t get the next five points right, then listeners will find the emotional quality of your music lacking.
16. Not understanding the message of your lyrics.
17. Highlighting your weaknesses.
18. Singing the wrong genre for your voice.
19. Overtly sounding like one influence.
20. Playing it safe.
Level Your Voice Up
Don’t let terrible singing habits define you. Chip away at this list one by one until you’ve eliminated all of them. You’ll be amazed at the results!
Benny Meza is a Master Associate at Brett Manning Studios in Nashville, TN. He’s taught over 7,000 vocal lessons and has worked with clients from Warner Music, RCA, Universal Music Group, and many others.
Want help eliminating these habits? Book a Skype or in-person lesson with Benny today!