So You Want To Sing Country - A Comprehensive Guide

The Charm and Appeal of Country Music

Country music has a unique way of resonating with people. Its heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and soulful performances have made it one of the most popular genres in the world. If you've ever found yourself tapping your feet to a country song or humming along to a catchy twangy tune, you might just have what it takes to become a country singer.

Understanding the Essence of Country Music

Before embarking on your journey to sing country, it's essential to understand the essence and characteristics of this genre. Country music often tells stories about love, heartbreak, family, and the simple pleasures in life. It's about capturing the spirit of the American heartland and evoking emotions through honest and relatable storytelling.

Developing Your Vocal Skills

Like any other style of singing, mastering country vocals requires practice and dedication. It's crucial to develop proper pitch control, resonance, breath support, and vocal agility. Take the time to warm up your voice and practice various techniques such as yodeling, smooth vocal runs, and the distinctive country vocal twang.

So You Want to Sing Country: A Guide for Performers

by Morton Manus(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7611 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	285 pages

FREE

Choosing the Right Songs

When selecting songs to sing, it's important to choose ones that suit your vocal range and showcase your unique style. Country music offers a wide range of sub-genres, from classic country to modern pop-country blends. Experiment with different songs and find ones that you connect with emotionally and that allow you to showcase your vocal abilities.

Embracing the Country Style

Country music is not just about the vocals; it's also about the overall presentation. Embrace the country style by incorporating elements of authenticity, such as dressing in western attire, wearing a cowboy hat, or incorporating country-inspired accessories in your performances. Remember that country music is deeply rooted in tradition, so it's important to honor its history while adding your own unique touch.

Connecting with the Audience

One of the most significant aspects of country music is its ability to create a connection with the audience. As a country singer, your job is to evoke emotions and touch the hearts of your listeners. Practice connecting with your audience by maintaining eye contact, delivering honest and heartfelt performances, and engaging with your fans on social media platforms.

Working with Professionals

To further enhance your singing career, consider working with professionals in the country music industry. Vocal coaches, songwriters, and producers can provide invaluable guidance and help you refine your skills. Additionally, attending workshops and participating in local country music events can help you network with industry insiders and gain exposure.

Preparing for Performances

When it comes to performing, preparation is key. Practice your songs extensively, rehearse with a live band if possible, and fine-tune your stage presence. Performing live can be nerve-wracking but remember to embrace the moment and allow your passion for country music to shine through your performances.

Recording Your Music

With the advancements in technology and the rise of independent artists, recording and releasing your own music has become more accessible than ever. Consider recording your songs in a professional studio or explore home recording options if you have the necessary equipment. Once your music is recorded, take advantage of digital distribution platforms to share your music with a wider audience.

Continuously Evolving and Improving

As you progress on your journey to become a country singer, remember that growth and improvement are continual processes. Stay open-minded, be willing to take risks, and never be afraid to experiment with new styles and influences. The country music scene is constantly evolving, and embracing change will help you stay relevant and establish your unique identity as an artist.

So you want to sing country? Embrace the charm, tradition, and authenticity of this beloved genre. Develop your vocal skills, choose the right songs, embrace the country style, and connect with your audience. Seek guidance from professionals and continuously strive for improvement. With dedication, passion, and a little bit of country twang, you'll be well on your way to realizing your dream of becoming a country singer.

So You Want to Sing Country: A Guide for Performers

by Morton Manus(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7611 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	285 pages

FREE

Country music, an original American artform, has been around since before the recording industry began and long before a singer even had the opportunity to sing into a microphone. From the early beginnings in the hills of Appalachia, to the rise of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and the more recent megastars, including Garth Brooks and Carrie Underwood, country music has proven to have staying power. It is one of the most popular styles of music in the world today, garnering more sales and downloads currently than any other genre. Many talented individuals are aspiring to sing country music and are determined to turn it into a successful career. Because of this growing popularity, there is a need to educate interested singers with information and methods that will give them the best possible chance at either having a career as a artist, working in the industry as a background vocalist or session singer, or simply realizing their potential in country music.

Kelly K. Garner's So You Want To Sing Country is a book devoted to briefly reviewing the rich heritage of country singing and thoroughly examining the techniques and methods of singing in a country style. Additional topics of discussion will include country song types and structure, instrumentation, performing on stage and in the studio, and career options in country music. Additional chapters by Scott McCoy and Wendy LeBorgne, and Matthew Edwards address universal questions of voice science and pedagogy, vocal health, and audio enhancement technology.

The So You Want to Sing series is produced in partnership with the National Association of Teachers of Singing. Like all books in the series, So You Want to Sing Country features online supplemental material on the NATS website. Please visit www.nats.org to access style-specific exercises, audio and video files, and additional resources.