How to Learn Singing “Cry Baby” from Janis Joplin

How to Learn Singing “Cry Baby” by Janis Joplin

Learning to sing a song like “Cry Baby” by Janis Joplin can be a thrilling experience. This iconic blues-rock song showcases Janis Joplin’s powerful and soulful vocal style. In this article, we will explore the unique vocal techniques used in the song and provide practical advice on how to learn and perform it.

The Unique Vocal Technique: Belting

One of the distinctive features of Janis Joplin’s singing style in “Cry Baby” is her use of belting. Belting is a vocal technique commonly used in contemporary music genres like rock and blues. It involves singing with a powerful, resonant, and open sound in the chest voice range.

In “Cry Baby,” Janis Joplin demonstrates her mastery of belting by delivering intense and emotive vocals that cut through the music and grab the listener’s attention. Her raw and soulful expression is a testament to the power of belting when done effectively.

Practical Advice for Learning “Cry Baby”

Learning to sing “Cry Baby” requires practice and attention to detail. Here are some practical tips and resources from Singing Carrots to help you in your journey:

1. Vocal Range Test

Before diving into learning the song, it’s essential to determine your vocal range. Take the Vocal Range Test offered by Singing Carrots. It will help you understand your vocal capabilities and choose the right key for “Cry Baby.”

2. Study the Original Recording

Listen to Janis Joplin’s original recording of “Cry Baby” repeatedly. Pay close attention to her phrasing, dynamics, and overall interpretation of the song. This will help you understand the nuances and emotions you need to convey in your own rendition.

3. Vocal Warm-ups and Technique

Before attempting to sing “Cry Baby,” it’s crucial to warm up your voice and strengthen the necessary vocal techniques. Singing Carrots offers a variety of warm-up exercises in their Pitch Training – Educational Singing Game program. Focus on exercises that improve breath support, agility, and resonance.

4. Practice with Vocal Pitch Monitor

To refine your pitch accuracy while singing “Cry Baby,” utilize the Vocal Pitch Monitor tool provided by Singing Carrots. It allows you to visualize your sung notes on a virtual piano, helping you stay in tune and make necessary adjustments.

5. Learn from Vocal Training Articles

Singing Carrots has a vast collection of articles covering various vocal techniques and concepts. Make sure to read articles like How to Analyze Your Voice, Breath Support Basics, and Avoiding Constrictions. These articles will provide valuable insights to improve your singing overall.

Other Songs Featuring Belting

Belting is a popular vocal technique used in various songs across different genres. Here are a few notable songs where you can find belting:

In Conclusion

“Cry Baby” by Janis Joplin is a timeless classic. By mastering the belting technique and following the practical tips and resources provided, you can learn to sing this song with passion and expressiveness. Embrace the rawness and soulfulness of Janis Joplin’s style, and make the song your own.