Singing With Acoustic Guitar?

Question

I am learning to play the acoustic guitar, and I REALLY want to be able to play and sing, but I tried singing and I probably have one of the worst voices on the planet. Actually that was sort of a joke because I think I might have a really nice voice, but I can hold any notes and can't seem to get any range (i don't even know if I am using the right terms lol). My voice is just all over the place when I sing, but occasionally I can get my voice to be steady for maybe 5 or 10 seconds and I actually really like my voice. I am 20 years old and this is the first time I have tried to sing in my life. Is it possible that I have a good voice, but I just need to strengthen my vocal chords, practice singing, and sing the right way. I think I am singing from my throat. I don't know how to sing from my stomach or however you are supposed to do it. I don't have money for a vocal coach. What are good options to learn how to sing? Any DVD's, books, online things you can think of? Pleaseee

Answer 1

I am a singer. You need to stick with it for a while and it will get smoother and smoother and your range will expand. Also, find singers that carry tremendously strong MELODY lines in their vocals and learn to sing along with them. A great example would be Morrissey. If you are not familiar with him he is a Brittish legendary singer and past lead singer for UK band the Smiths. His vocal melodies are lifting and very dynamic so you will learn to transition your voice from note to note. That is crucial. Just learning how to hit notes won't get you there. Colin Meloy, from the Decemberists, and Aaron Russo, from the Cold War Spies, also use very strong melodies in their singing styles. Maybe some early to mid career U2 as well. none of these folks are the worlds best singers neccesarilly but their sense of melody is intense. Singing along to a strong melody will help you not only hit the notes but learn how to smooth out your voices transition from note to note. Sing loud, sing often and sing like you are alone in a mountain cabin where no one can hear you. Eventually your real inner message will come out and you will be able to deliver it physically the way you hear it mentally.

Playing guitar along to your voice is just about learning to automate the guitar parts so you can focus on your voice. Repitition on the guitar is the only solution here. You have to get so used to the song that you don't think about what you are playing. That can be the ultimate goal to do both but don't forget you can record guitar then overdub vocals with a lot of freeware to at least capture the song. GOOD LUCK!!!
ps I personally believe everyone can sing they just need to hone a style. If anyone disagrees with that then please somehow explain Tom Waits to me. Anyone can sing :)

Answer 2

I am not really sure where you can go to look...but I do know that if you are serious and you can invest in a vocal coach...they can really help. My brother is in a band, and he took vocal lessons, and it really changed his sound. The vocal coach taught him exercises, vocal strenghtheing techniques, and even the kind of water he should drink before performing. Also, check out Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, etc...they have a unique sound...not the best singers, but they followed their hearts, and put it all out there, and they rock...esp. Cash. Also, check out Ray LaMontagne...you will see what I mean. Good luck man...follow that dream!!! Remember me in some liner notes or something! LOL!!!

Answer 3

Not sure what advice to give you, but I want to give you some words of encouragement.

Some of the most famous singers in the world can't sing for beans. I mean they have truly AWFUL voices. Who?

Neil Young.
Bob Dylan.
Jakob Dylan.
Tom Petty.
Bruce Springsteen.
Kim Carnes. (She sang Bette Davis Eyes and It's A Heartache)

But these people, and plenty more who I can't think of off the top of my head are famous for their singing and songwriting and performing.

Just SING. If you enjoy it, sing and sing and sing and SING. Let your voice be heard. :)

Answer 4

i say keep trying.... all you can do is practice. (try to sing along with your fav bands songs... and stuff. too. try to carry the notes with them for as long as they do. and in kinda of the way their voice sounds so you get kinda their range too. but not copying off them singing your learning from them and then you can find your own way to sing your own songs. Good Luck!

Answer 5

dependss on your form!! i in my view like to play any vivid eyes songs on guitar... yet another prevalent favorites are hey there delilah - undemanding white t's you and me - lifehouse wonderwall - oasis swing existence away - upward thrust adverse to im yours - jason mraz collide - howie day time of your existence - eco-friendly day