Is there a name for the "grunt" noise singers make -- especially "diva" singers. NOT THE DEATH METAL GRUNT.

Question

I love it, and as a singer I was wondering if it had a name. Most women hit certain notes with that kind of gruntish thing. I can't explain it.

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

If I understand what you're referring to, I've heard it called a "growl." I love it, too, but only when used sparingly and for a good effect. It can definitely be overdone!

Answer 2

in the opera world, there is a special effect known as the "tenor sob" which one hears when a tenor breathes in before a big high note.
Are you perhaps referring to chest voice, which is also treated as a special effect for women? It can get pretty heavy duty sounding when we lean on it too hard ( which is why we save it for FX).
Or are you referring to that unfortunate aspect of bad technique by singers, where they don't hit the note they want right away, and have to slide around before they land on it? In America, this is known as scooping, and is considered simply ill-trained.
A fourth possibility occurs to me, highly technical. Often there will be a build-up of air pressure under the larynx, which forces its way out through the vocal cords. The escaping out rush could be considered a grunt. It's extremely poor technique, known as forcing or pushing. Please avoid this, as it is bad for the vocal apparatus. It is the #1 cause of vocal distress on a technical level ( drugs, alcohol and smoking on the non-technical level)
There, did that make everything clear as mud? : ))
Best wishes and keep on singing

Answer 3

I believe it is more of a Rasp in the vocal delivery that can be controlled.