How to Learn to Sing “Moonlight Feels Right” by Starbuck
“Moonlight Feels Right” by Starbuck is a classic from the ’70s famous for its unique soft rock feel coupled with an infectious marimba solo. Learning to sing it can be a delightful project, if approached strategically. This guide will help break down the vocals and explain a unique technique used in the song.
Understanding the Song’s Style
Starbuck’s “Moonlight Feels Right” is predominantly soft pop/rock which requires smooth, effortless singing with a focus on rich melodic content. The song has a light and easygoing quality that needs to be maintained throughout. It’s generally sung in comfortable chest voice. To understand more about vocal registers, take a look at this article.
The Vocal Range
Before diving into the song, it’s important to determine if it fits your vocal range. Use the Vocal range test tool to understand where your voice fits most comfortably.
Unique Vocal Techniques: Twang
The song has a subtle ‘twang’ quality, which is a bright, focused sound with nasal resonance that enhances projection without straining the vocalist’s throat. The singer uses this vocal technique to create catchy melodic lines, characteristic of the song. Check out the How to Twang Exercise video and the article on contemporary vocal techniques to learn how to apply twang.
Articulation and Timing
To replicate the sense of rhythm and style, focus on clear articulation and timing. An Articulation exercise can assist you in practicing the clear pronunciation of words while keeping the smooth flow of the melody intact.
Practicing the Song
Once you’re familiar with these techniques, start practicing. Follow the approach explained in the How to Learn a Song Effectively article. Using Singing Carrots Pitch Training can also bring more fun to your practice sessions and help you improve your pitch accuracy.
Conclusion
Learning to sing “Moonlight Feels Right” not only adds a classic to your repertoire but also introduces you to a useful singing technique – twang. Once you’ve mastered this song, try applying twang to others – think “You’re the One That I Want” from the “Grease” soundtrack or Dolly Parton’s “Jolene”. Enjoy your singing journey!