How to Learn Singing “Life on Mars?” by David Bowie
Singing a song like “Life on Mars?” by David Bowie is an exciting and challenging endeavor. This iconic song showcases Bowie’s unique vocal style and expressive storytelling. In this article, we will explore the vocal techniques used in the song and provide practical tips to help you learn and perform it with confidence.
Understanding the Vocal Technique
One of the distinctive vocal techniques employed by Bowie in “Life on Mars?” is his wide vocal range and expressive phrasing. He effortlessly transitions between different vocal registers and delivers powerful high notes with control and emotion.
To master this technique, it is crucial to understand your own vocal range. You can start by taking the Vocal Range Test on Singing Carrots. It will help you determine your comfortable singing range and compare it with famous singers.
Practical Tips for Learning the Song
Here are some practical tips to help you effectively learn and perform “Life on Mars?”:
- Analyze Your Voice: Before you start practicing, read the article on How to Analyze Your Voice. This will help you understand your voice type, breathing technique, and vocal registers.
- Breathing and Breath Support: Proper breathing is essential for vocal control. Learn the basics of breathing technique from the article on Breathing Basics and Breath Support. Practice exercises like the Farinelli Breathing video to improve your breath control.
- Vocal Warm-up and Exercises: Warm up your voice before singing. You can follow the Humming exercise to gently warm up your vocal cords. Additionally, use the Pitch Training tool on Singing Carrots to improve your pitch accuracy and vocal agility.
- Articulation and Diction: Pay attention to your articulation. Check out the Articulation article for tips and practice the Finger Bite exercise to improve your clarity and pronunciation.
- Study Bowie’s Performance: Watch live performances of David Bowie singing “Life on Mars?” to understand his interpretation and phrasing. Take inspiration from his stage presence and unique vocal delivery.
Other Songs with Similar Techniques
The unique vocal techniques used in “Life on Mars?” can also be found in other popular songs. Here are a few examples:
- How to Twang Exercise: Twang is a vocal technique used in various genres. It can be heard in songs like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell.
- How to Growl Exercise: Vocal growling is a technique used in rock and metal genres. It can be heard in songs like “Back in Black” by AC/DC and “Enter Sandman” by Metallica.
- Beggars Bounce and Diaphragm Bounce: These exercises will help you develop a controlled vibrato technique, similar to what Bowie utilizes in “Life on Mars?”.
Remember, learning a song like “Life on Mars?” requires patience, practice, and dedication. Utilize the resources and exercises available on Singing Carrots to improve your singing skills and confidently perform this iconic piece.