Natural vs. Learned talent for singing?

Question

I started taking voice lessons at the age of 26 last year. After a year, I'm singing better in some respects, but feel that other areas just haven't changed at all. My voice is similar to Chris Martin, though a little deeper, but I try to sing brighter vocals like Michael Stipe (R.E.M.). I feel like I have good ideas for lyrics and the percussion of singing but sometimes the delivery is still off. I practice all the time. I started singing in my car in high school and felt like I had some places where my voice was good. I want to be a good singer, but constantly struggle with it. So how much of singing is learned and how much is natural talent? Can someone who's not that naturally gifted learn to be good?

Also, I feel like having gotten a late start with formal training and also with practicing and writing original vocals that I'm already up against a learning curve. As if you tried learning how to play football at the age of 26. Sometimes it feels hopeless.

Answer 1

Don't worry about what you can/can't do, develop your own style. Keep practising. Record your voice and see what parts you like and what you want to work on.

It's not too late, ever.

If you mean what you're singing rather than trying to sound like someone particular/sing in a style that is uncomfortable/unnatural for you then that will come through. A lot of famous singers are not the most technically gifted, but have their own style and presence when singing: this is what makes a good vocalist, rather than "how many notes can I squash in".

Good luck, do not give up!

Answer 2

Miranda has some excellent advice on your singing! Hi! Miranda! And basically every body has a different sound for singing because everyone has different vocal chords! There are some singers that can sing high and clear, but can't sing low and powerful, and vice-versa, sometimes it's hard to sound like some singers because their voices are so different, and sometimes you can find someone that you sound like because your voices are similar! also everyone has a different vocal range, either high or low! And yes, someone who is not naturally gifted can be good eventually, if you stay at it!!

Answer 3

i would say it will take a lot longer than natural talent but if really what you want to do and you strive for it, then do it.
And don't compare yourself to other singers, just do you.

Answer 4

Hard work overshadows natural talent.

But you can't beat the naturally talented hard worker.

Answer 5

i feel like being natural