How to Learn Singing “So Close” by Jon McLaughlin?

Learning to sing a particular song can be an exciting and rewarding experience. In this article, we will explore how to learn Jon McLaughlin’s beautiful ballad “So Close” and discover the unique vocal technique used in the song. We will also mention other popular songs that share similar vocal techniques. So let’s dive in!

Understanding the Vocal Technique

“So Close” showcases Jon McLaughlin’s smooth and emotive singing style. One vocal technique that stands out in this song is his control over dynamics and phrasing. McLaughlin effortlessly shifts between soft and powerful moments, creating a captivating and emotional performance.

This technique of controlling dynamics and phrasing is also used in other popular songs, such as John Legend’s “All of Me” and Adele’s “Someone Like You.” By observing and studying how these artists modulate their voice, you can learn to express the emotions of the song effectively.

Practical Steps to Learn “So Close”

Here are some practical steps to help you learn and master “So Close” by Jon McLaughlin:

1. Listen and analyze: Begin by listening to the original song multiple times. Pay attention to the overall melody, phrasing, dynamics, and emotional nuances. By analyzing the song, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of its structure and be able to interpret it with authenticity.
2. Vocal warm-up: Before practicing the song, warm up your voice using exercises like 3 Minute Warm Up to prepare your vocal muscles and improve your vocal range.
3. Break it down: Divide the song into smaller sections and focus on mastering one section at a time. Start with the chorus or any challenging parts. Practice each section slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
4. Work on dynamics: Pay attention to the dynamics of the song and explore different ways to express the emotions. Practice singing softly during the intimate moments and gradually build up to more powerful and emotional parts. Use your voice to convey the subtleties of the lyrics and connect with the audience on a deeper level.
5. Record and analyze: Record yourself singing the song and objectively assess your performance. Listen for areas where you can improve, such as pitch accuracy, dynamics, or phrasing. Use tools like the Vocal Pitch Monitor to visually analyze your performance and identify areas of improvement.
6. Seek professional guidance: Consider taking a singing course, like the one offered by Singing Carrots (Educational Singing Course), to receive guidance from vocal experts. They can provide personalized feedback and help you refine your vocal technique for this song and beyond.

Wrap Up

Learning to sing “So Close” by Jon McLaughlin is an opportunity to develop your vocal technique and emotional expression. By mastering the dynamics and phrasing used in this song, you’ll not only improve your singing skills but also gain a deeper understanding of capturing emotions through music.

Remember, learning a song takes time and practice. Embrace the journey, be patient with yourself, and celebrate your progress along the way. Happy singing!