I’ve been working on my voice significantly over the last few years. Just like any muscle in the body, it needs to be exercised, strengthened and properly rested. Anytime I lead worship or do a show, I usually keep the same routine. Plenty of water, no caffeine, no dairy, and minimal speaking too. Additionally, I’ve come up with a classic drink concoction to help calm down my voice before the gig.
2 Bags Organic Chamomile Tea
1 Tablespoon Honey
1 Organic Cough Drop
16 oz. Hot Water
Melt the Honey and the Cough Drop in the Hot water as the Tea steeps.*
*The beverage you’re about to enjoy is extremely hot.
There are a lot of other tips out there I’m sure, what tricks do you use before singing?
Rob – you and I agree on no caffeine or dairy (which makes praise team mornings a little rough), but I may have to try your concoction. Have you been working with any vocal coaches? I would love to sing more, and thinking I need to get “Back in shape”.
Only master class lessons via CD and DVD. I’m planning on taking a few special sessions with a few heavy hitters as my album recording date approaches too
I usually just put a rubber band around my $%^#&^#@s. No really alot of sing has to do with the weather believe it or not. On a warm humid day I can sing like a canary. On a cold dry day it’s not so easy so hydration is key. Cut out the beer, cigars, alcohole and caffeine , sugar, white bread, corn syrup, monosodium glutamate and all other food. Just kidding. What ever works for you is what works for you. Robert is correct about exercising, strenghthening and resting the voice. I find that yoga, Tai Chi and palates have helped me with building my core (diaphram) etc. It also calms the nervous system which is all good. Happy singing all! Robert I remember when you were not a good singer. You inspired me to learn to play the guitar because I thought that if you could get up and lead worship with your voice then if I could learn to play the guitar then I knew i could do it. You have come so far vocally I just can’t believe it! Congrats bro. Can’t wait to hear the new record.
Thanks dude!
Cool! Be sure to keep us posted on your vocal coaching experience!