...so you want to be a metal vocalist?

I had someone ask me for some advice on becoming a metal vocalist.  They were very humble in their request and in all honesty I should be the one humbled by someone asking advice from me.  I am proud to be asked such questions so I thought it would be relevant to post my response on here;

Hey dude.  I'm cool man.  Everything is all good.

The first thing with being a metal vocalist is to remember that whatever type of vocal you are doing, it's a vocal technique and you need to approach it in that way.  A lot of people understandably think that screaming down a mic requires the same type of intensity as screaming when you are plain angry.  This isn’t the case.  A solid metal vocal is all about control and consistency.  I always rate my performance (from a vocal perspective) on how consistent my vocal is throughout a single ‘scream’ and throughout a gig.

Approach a vocal warmup the same way as a regular singer would.  There are lots of vocal warm up mp3’s out there that should help with that. 

Never try to sound like someone else.  Be influenced by all means, but don’t go out to specifically sound like someone else.  Think about the majority of bands you love and especially those who are at the top of their game.  Do they sound like anyone else?  The majority don’t.  Don’t be the next Mitch out of Suicide Silence…Be the first Jake.

Remember when you start trying out techniques not to do so for hours.  You’ll strain yourself and get headaches.  Make sure you don’t try to be as loud as you can.  Remember it is about the sound not the volume.  Take your time.  For many years my vocal was pretty low in volume, now it’s pretty loud but controlled.  If I go to the football and shout my head off, I’ll lose my voice.  Put me on a stage for an hour and I’m fine.  That is no co-incidence.

Focus on breathing techniques in regular singing lessons and practice through a mic as well as without so you can hear the difference.  Some singing lessons to begin with would be a good idea to get the basics down.

I hear some people say smoking and coughing before doing a metal vocal helps.  It doesn’t and as a matter of fact, it will ruin the consistency of a scream in the long run.

Lastly don’t get embarrassed.  I understand that having a microphone in front of you and having a load of peers watching you is a little bit daunting, but don’t worry.  Be confident and positive.  It will all pay off.

I hope this helps a little bit dude.  If you need any more advice or help, just let me know.

Take it easy

Daz