How to Learn Singing “Big Spender” from Shirley Bassey

How to Learn Singing “Big Spender” by Shirley Bassey

Learning to sing a particular song can be an exciting and rewarding experience. In this article, we will explore the process of learning how to sing “Big Spender” by Shirley Bassey. Known for her powerful voice and captivating performances, Bassey brings a unique vocal technique to this iconic song.

The Unique Vocal Technique: Belting

“Big Spender” showcases Shirley Bassey’s exceptional belting technique. Belting is a powerful and intense singing style that emphasizes the chest voice and creates a rich, resonant sound. It involves singing at the top of your vocal range with a strong, full-bodied tone. Bassey’s belting in “Big Spender” adds drama, expressiveness, and a touch of seduction to the song.

Practical Advice: Vocal Warm-up and Breathing

Before attempting to sing “Big Spender,” it is essential to warm up your vocal cords and practice proper breathing techniques. Singing Carrots offers an excellent vocal warm-up tool that prepares your voice for the song. You can access it here.

Additionally, mastering breath control is crucial for delivering the powerful belting required in “Big Spender.” Singing Carrots provides a comprehensive guide on breath support, which you can find here.

Learning the Song: Step by Step

To effectively learn “Big Spender,” follow these step-by-step instructions:

  1. Listen to the Original: Start by listening to Shirley Bassey’s original version of “Big Spender.” Pay attention to her vocal delivery, phrasing, and overall performance to get a sense of the song’s essence and style.
  2. Study the Lyrics: Familiarize yourself with the lyrics of the song. Singing Carrots’ comprehensive songbook tool provides linked lyrics for “Big Spender” that you can access here.
  3. Work on Vocal Technique: Since “Big Spender” heavily relies on belting, practice vocal exercises that help strengthen your chest voice and improve your vocal range. Singing Carrots offers a range of exercises for vocal technique, including belting, which you can explore here.
  4. Focus on Phrasing and Dynamics: Pay attention to the song’s phrasing and dynamics. Bassey’s rendition of “Big Spender” showcases her ability to convey emotion through delicate nuances in her singing. Practice interpreting the lyrics with appropriate phrasing and dynamics to add your unique touch to the song.
  5. Record and Evaluate: Record yourself singing “Big Spender” and listen back to evaluate your performance. Take note of any areas that need improvement and work on refining your singing technique.

Other Songs Utilizing Belting Technique

The belting technique used in “Big Spender” by Shirley Bassey can also be found in several other popular songs. Here are a few examples:

By studying these songs and practicing the belting technique, you can further develop your vocal skills and expand your repertoire.

Monitor Your Progress

As you work on mastering “Big Spender” and other songs, it is essential to monitor your progress. Singing Carrots offers an online vocal pitch monitor that allows you to track your pitch accuracy. You can access it here.