Singing Guide: Atlanta Rhythm Section
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Atlanta Rhythm Section: A Classic rock band
Atlanta Rhythm Section (ARS) is a classic rock band that formed in Doraville, Georgia in 1970. Known for hits like "So Into You" and "Champagne Jam," the band pioneers the Southern Rock sub-genre, incorporating elements of blues, country and funk into their music. The signature ARS sound is characterized by clean, melodic guitar leads, Hammond organ, and prominent backing vocals.
How to Sing like ARS
To learn to sing like ARS, you need to develop a strong, clear voice, improve your breath control, and learn to harmonize with others. Here are some practical tips to get you started:
Analyze your voice with the Vocal Range Test
ARS songs require a wide vocal range. To determine your range and identify your strengths and weaknesses, take the Vocal Range Test from Singing Carrots. The test allows you to sing a few notes and then analyze your vocal range. Once you have identified your range, you can then work on expanding it and improving your singing skills.
Focus on breathing basics and active breathing
Singing requires a lot of breath control, and mastering your breathing technique is essential. Singing Carrots' articles on Breathing basics and Breath Support can help you improve your breathing technique. Practice breathing exercises like the Farinelli Breathing video, included in the resource list, to improve your lung capacity and breath control.
Work on chest voice and voice registers
ARS songs often have a prominent lead vocal supported by strong backing vocals. To learn to sing like ARS, you need to strengthen your chest voice and learn to find your break points between chest voice and head voice. The Singing Comfort Zone video included in the resource list provides training on this topic. Additionally, the article on Voice Registers & Vocal Break from Singing Carrots can help you understand the vocal registers and how to use them.
Practice accurate pitch control and vibrato
ARS songs often feature complex melodic structures that require accurate pitch control and vibrato. The Pitch Accuracy Test from Singing Carrots can help you develop a better sense of pitch and identify areas for improvement. The Beggars Bounce and Diaphragm Bounce videos provide additional training on vibrato, which is an essential technique for singing ARS songs.
Focus on open mouth and resonance
Maintaining an open mouth and throat while singing helps to improve your resonance and projection. The article on Open Mouth and Throat while Singing from Singing Carrots can help you learn how to do this. Additionally, practicing nasal singing exercises like Soft Palate and Stop Sounding Nasal can help improve your resonance.
Learn to harmonize with others
ARS songs often feature strong backing vocals and harmonies. To learn to harmonize with others, practice singing along with other singers and analyzing their vocal parts. The article on Singing with Intuition, Skills, Emotion, and Thinking from Singing Carrots provides additional guidance on how to harmonize with others.
By incorporating these tips into your practice, you can learn to sing like ARS and develop your own unique vocal style. Remember to utilize the Singing Carrots resources and take your time to practice and improve.