Dissapointed in Vocals

[naked]

I just cant get the vocals to sound 'good' to me. any thoughts or advice?

http://fender.dmusic.com/

Click on "Vocal Problems"

Thanks.

 

[JeffLancaster]

When I try clicking on your vocal problems link I get a message in winamp "Error syncing to mpeg". I was able to click on your other link and hear your "guitar test" file ok.

 

[naked]

Sorry, it's fixed now.

 

[JeffLancaster]

OK, so I listened to it. Not too bad, but it seems a little heavy on the reverb and is also off key in parts. Are you the singer or is this someone you're recording? What specifically are you unhappy with?

 

[naked]

I am the singer. Not sure how to improve the vocals with compresion/effects and any of those sorts. Yeah I know it is off key as you can hear I have a hard time with that high octave. Just looking for pointers.

 

[JeffLancaster]

Well, I'm far from the expert around here, and hopefully a real pro will come along and help before too long. But my first impression is the vox had a kind of "washed out" sound - perhaps from too much reverb. I would say that vocals in this track should sound more up-front and confident. When you sing the song, don't be shy...sing it like you mean it. Try to project your vocals from the diaphragm. Then, when mixing, give it a little compression to keep it out front, and don't give it too much reverb - in this kind of song I think if the reverb is apparent then it's too much.

 

[naked]

should the higher notes be more achievable? I've always been told to project from the diaphragm, I just have a hard time doing it.

 

[JeffLancaster]

Well, it sounds like you're reaching the notes for the most part, but singing from the diaphragm will reduce strain and help keep things more under control. Ultimately it will make you sound more confident when you sing. Try holding your hand on your stomach when you sing - you should be able to physically feel the muscles working in there.

Here's a website with some more tips: http://www.themusicedge.com/moxie/gear/vocals/vocal-training.shtml

Keep practicing, you have a natural tone to your voice that will be very nice when you get it under control.

 

[naked]

thanks for your input!

 

[mellon]

I am the singer. Not sure how to improve the vocals with compresion/effects and any of those sorts. Yeah I know it is off key as you can hear I have a hard time with that high octave. Just looking for pointers.

hey, just joined..for what its worth...i for starters have problems with covers
in general..for me that would be a difficult song to do and be happy with (i
think) because i want everything to sound as perfect and as original as
possible...only the goo goo guy can do that to my satisfaction entirely
because im used to hearing it that way...for me....i dont even like (as well)
live versions of songs many times because they vary from the studio
version ive wore out and know in my head...the only advice i could give
is practice until your satisfied its the best your going to get it...also i have to say i was impressed with the overall sound i thought the vocals sounded a
little flat and could use a boost but very promising if thats what you choose to pursue (goo goo(covers)) not trying to be a smarta$$ just think you might be more content if its something on the octive scale your more comfortable with either way i think you have a good natural voice hope to hear more

 

[NYMorningstar]

The best way to improve your vocals is to improve the air flow. To do this go to the track and start doing wind sprints. Really, and ya, work on your diaphragm by doing reverse crunches on a bench. Start doing scales in your free time, e.g. just lalalalalalalalala, la, la. When you perform and your singing high notes, think above the notes. When you inhale, don't raise your shoulders, instead pull your diaphragm down. Practice starting the notes off in different places e.g. from your gut, your chest, your throat, your nose etc.

Other than that you vocals are pretty muddy sitting in the mix. You might want to hit the EQ and notch out a spot for them. Also, try posting this in the clinic and you'll get alot more responses.
https://homerecording.com/bbs/forumdisplay.php?f=15