How to Learn Singing “Memory” from Cats

How to Learn Singing "Memory" from the Musical "Cats"

"Memory" is a beautiful and iconic song from the musical "Cats." Learning to sing this song requires understanding its unique vocal technique and incorporating practical advice to enhance your performance. In this article, we will guide you through the process of learning and mastering "Memory" while providing relevant Singing Carrots resources to support your journey.

The Vocal Technique of "Memory"

"Memory" demands a strong emotional connection and the ability to convey vulnerability through your voice. It requires control over your vocal dynamics and the use of a mix of head voice and chest voice to create the desired effect. This vocal technique is commonly known as "belting."

Belting is a powerful singing style that involves utilizing the chest voice while accessing the higher registers of your voice. It is characterized by a strong, intense sound that can be heard in popular songs like "Defying Gravity" from the musical "Wicked" and "And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going" from the musical "Dreamgirls."

Tips for Learning "Memory"

To learn "Memory" effectively, it’s important to follow a structured approach. Here are some practical tips to help you along the way:

  1. Start by analyzing your voice using the How to Analyze Your Voice article. Understanding your vocal range and voice type will inform your approach to singing this song.
  2. Develop proper breathing techniques as explained in the Breathing Basics and Breath Support articles. Breath control is crucial for sustaining the long phrases and emotive delivery in "Memory."
  3. Work on opening your mouth and throat while singing, as discussed in the Open Mouth & Throat article. This will help you achieve clarity and resonance in your voice.
  4. Follow the techniques for learning a song effectively from the How to Learn a Song Effectively article. This will guide you through the process of breaking down the song into manageable sections, practicing with purpose, and mastering the nuances of "Memory."
  5. Explore additional vocal techniques, if desired, such as vibrato, articulation, and resonance by referring to the relevant articles provided in the resources.
  6. Use the Singing Carrots vocal tools to enhance your learning experience. The Vocal Pitch Monitor can help you visualize your sung notes, and the Pitch Training game can improve your pitch accuracy while making the learning process enjoyable.

Other Songs Utilizing Similar Vocal Technique

"Memory" employs the belting technique, which is also prevalent in other popular songs. Some notable examples include:

  • "Defying Gravity" from the musical "Wicked"
  • "And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going" from the musical "Dreamgirls"
  • "Don’t Rain on My Parade" from the musical "Funny Girl"
  • "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston

By listening to and studying these songs, you can gain further inspiration and insights into belting and its application in various musical contexts.

Remember, learning to sing "Memory" is not just about hitting the right notes but also about conveying the emotion and storytelling through your voice. Take the time to connect with the lyrics and express the vulnerability of the character through your interpretation.

Enjoy the journey of learning a truly iconic song and unlock your vocal potential with the help of Singing Carrots’ educational resources. Start with the Educational Singing Course to gain a solid foundation in singing theory and practical tips.

Happy singing!