Learning to Sing ‘Smoke Two Joints’ by Sublime
‘Smoke Two Joints’ by Sublime uses a lot of vocal distortions for a growly, gritty sound. Here’s how to learn to sing it like a pro and understand the technique used within it.
Understanding the Vocal Technique
Bradley Nowell, Sublime’s lead singer, makes heavy use of a technique called vocal distortion or growling in ‘Smoke Two Joints’. This gritty texture adds emotional intensity and a raw rock feel to the song. If you’re interested in achieving this, read this article on vocal distortion & growling or check out this exercise on how to growl.
Other Popular Songs with Vocal Distortion
If you enjoy singing in this growly style, some other songs that also employ vocal distortion include ‘I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor’ by Arctic Monkeys, ‘Come As You Are’ by Nirvana, and ‘Plush’ by Stone Temple Pilots.
Learning the Song
While vocal distortion is a staple in ‘Smoke Two Joints’, it’s imperative not to neglect other vital aspects of singing. Before you even start learning the song, make sure to warm up correctly. You can begin with this 3-minute warm-up and practice your breath control with the Farinelli breathing exercise.
After you’ve warmed up your voice, use our Vocal Pitch Monitor to see your sung notes on a virtual piano and track where your voice falls on the scale. This can be an excellent tool to ensure you’re hitting the right notes and not straying off key.
For some practical advice on how to practice the song effectively, we recommend this article on how to learn a song effectively.
Maintaining Your Vocal Health
While vocal distortion can add an edge to a song, it can also strain your vocal cords if not done correctly. It’s essential to balance practice with maintaining your vocal health. You can read our tips on vocal health and watch this video on relaxing breath to help relieve tension from your voice.
Getting Feedback
Getting feedback on your singing is crucial to improving. Use our Pitch Accuracy Test to assess how well you’re hitting the notes. You can also track your progress over time and see how your voice is improving as you practice.
Lastly, have fun as you experiment and learn the techniques of ‘Smoke Two Joints’. Remember, singing is not just about imitation, but also about injecting your unique flair into your performance.