Singing Guide: Ain't Misbehavin
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
"Fats" Waller's legendary music stands apart from other jazz compositions of the 1920s and 30s. His piano playing and vocals were marked by a distinct style that combined ragtime and stride techniques. He was known for his up-tempo numbers that wove humor into the lyrics, belted out with his rich baritone voice. Waller also frequently collaborated with other artists, including the Harlem Symphony Orchestra and other jazz legends such as Benny Carter.
If you are inspired by Waller's music and would like to learn to sing like him, start by developing your vocal range and technique. Take Singing Carrots' vocal range test to determine your own range and see how you compare to the legendary artist. Practice singing in stride, using a rhythmic left hand and a syncopated right hand, to tap and strum the piano while singing.
Pay attention to Waller's expert use of dynamics, adding intensity in the right moments as you sing with fervor. Learn to master the art of scatting, a vocal improvisation technique pioneered by jazz greats like Waller, to express your personality and creativity through vocal performance.
One of the most notable songs showcasing Waller's signature style is Ain't Misbehavin'. Start by watching the video and take note of Waller's phrasing and timing, as well as how he uses dynamics to add expressiveness to the music.
When practicing, consider using Singing Carrots' pitch accuracy test to help improve your pitch control and intonation. Use Singing Carrots' Pitch training module, which will help you with exercises for range and agility. And if you're looking for song suggestions, Singing Carrots' song search is perfect for finding pieces that match your vocal range, difficulty, and genre preference, so you can find an ideal match for your voice.
By incorporating the right musical elements and practicing with various tools at your disposal, you'll be able to sing like "Fats" Waller, with perhaps even a touch of your own style, as you delight in performing his signature and timeless song, Ain't Misbehavin'.