How to Learn Singing “Boulder To Birmingham” by Emmylou Harris
Learning to sing a specific song requires practice, technique, and a deep understanding of the song’s unique vocal style. In this article, we will explore how to learn singing “Boulder To Birmingham” by Emmylou Harris. This iconic song showcases Harris’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth. By studying and practicing the techniques used in this song, you can develop your own vocal skills and expressiveness.
The Unique Vocal Technique in “Boulder To Birmingham”
“Boulder To Birmingham” is known for its heartfelt lyrics, beautiful melody, and the haunting use of vibrato in Emmylou Harris’s vocals. Vibrato is the rapid oscillation of pitch around the central note. It adds depth and emotion to the singing, enhancing the overall performance. Harris’s control over her vibrato showcases her mastery of vocal technique and contributes to the song’s emotional impact.
To learn singing “Boulder To Birmingham” effectively, it’s essential to develop and control your own vibrato. Singing Carrots provides a helpful resource on singing with vibrato that explains the technique in detail. Additionally, you can watch videos like “Beggars Bounce” and “Diaphragm Bounce” on Singing Carrots’ YouTube channel to practice and improve your vibrato technique.
Practical Tips for Learning the Song
Here are some practical tips to help you learn singing “Boulder To Birmingham” effectively:
- Listen to the original song: Start by listening to Emmylou Harris’s original recording of “Boulder To Birmingham.” This will familiarize you with the melody, phrasing, and overall style of the song.
- Study the lyrics: Take the time to understand the lyrics and their emotional meaning. This will help you connect with the song and deliver a more authentic performance.
- Break down the song: Divide the song into sections and work on them individually. Focus on mastering each section before moving on to the next. This will make the learning process more manageable.
- Practice vocal warm-ups and exercises: Before singing the song, warm up your voice with exercises that improve breath support and vocal range. Singing Carrots offers pitch training and a vocal pitch monitor tool to help you with warm-ups and practice.
- Pay attention to phrasing: Notice how Emmylou Harris phrases the lyrics and emulates the emotions of the song. Try to replicate her phrasing and emotional expression while maintaining your unique interpretation.
- Record yourself: Record yourself singing the song and listen back to identify areas for improvement. This will help you refine your performance and enhance your vocal technique.
Other Popular Songs Using Similar Vocal Techniques
The vocal technique used in “Boulder To Birmingham” can be found in other popular songs. Exploring these songs will allow you to further develop your vocal skills and expand your repertoire. Here are some examples:
- “Angel from Montgomery” by Bonnie Raitt
- “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
- “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
- “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
- “Gravity” by John Mayer
Studying the vocal techniques used in these songs will deepen your understanding of how to effectively use vibrato and convey emotions through your singing.
Learning to sing “Boulder To Birmingham” by Emmylou Harris is a rewarding experience that will enhance your vocal skills and allow you to explore the powerful use of vibrato. By following the tips and resources provided by Singing Carrots, you can develop the technique and emotional expressiveness necessary to deliver a captivating performance. Enjoy the journey of learning and expressing yourself through this beautiful song!