Country singing - Expression

All the country singing folks out there have their own personal style, a particular way of singing. You could spend a LOT of time listening to Billy Ray Cyrus, his certain style, his signature voice.If you wish to sing like him (I mean exactly), it helps a lot to listen to him. However, it is also vital that you develop your own special voice. This is where you learn Technique. And believe me when I say this is vital for great country singing

Just listen to a verse in any song. I'm sure the singer didn't sing in a monotone voice. He probably added some pitch variation, and changed the volume, from soft to loud, and back. Also, he might have added some special effects, like breathy singing, growling, and in certain songs, might have sounded like he was constipated! This called Expression. So, how do you achieve this "expression"?

Well, firstly you've got to like the song! There's no point trying to "force" yourself to sing a song, you'll just get Sick of it. Next, you will have to understand how to use different parts of your nose, mouse, throat and diaphragm to create "feeling" effects.

If you're a beginner, this is all probably Greek (or any other unfamiliar language) to you. Not to worry! You'll learn in time. For now, just try to understand what you feel like when you do a certain expression. Sing the song with as much expression (more on that below) as you like. It's the first step to mastering your voice!

Many beginners fall into the trap of trying to "express" themselves too hard. This results in a very unpleasant song. Plus, it puts a lot of tension on the singer. Singing without actively trying to add expression may help some people. It may result in the subconscious mind producing the expression, which will sound beautiful and pure.

Expression - What is it? How do you do it?

Expression is basically the feel of the song. It shows through when you really like the song and sing it. First rule of expression - Don't force the expression. It will sound fake!

Take a look at the lyrics of the song. Is it in any way related to your life? Have any of the lyrics taken place? Or do you feel a strange "connection" to the lyrics? These emotions will help in singing with expression. Pausing between phrases is a must-do if you want to be expressive. It makes the lyrics more meaningful, and will also let you catch your breath! If you're singing a "happy" song, make sure to smile! This will show through in your singing.

Relax, be natural, and your country singing will become more expressive! The trick is to figure out how to harness that expression, and use it constructively!

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