Singing Guide: Billy Thorpe & The Aztecs
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Billy Thorpe was an Australian rock singer and guitarist, most famous in the early 1960s as the lead vocalist of The Aztecs. He was known for his powerful and gritty voice, as well as his energetic stage presence. Learning to sing like him can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, as his unique style of singing requires a combination of vocal technique and emotional expression.
One of Billy Thorpe’s signature vocal techniques was his use of vibrato, which he employed to great effect on songs such as "Most People I Know" and "Mashed Potato." Vibrato is a rapid variation of pitch, which adds a rich, natural quality to the voice. Singers can develop vibrato by practicing sustained notes, gradually increasing the intensity of their breath support. Singing exercises such as the “Beggars Bounce” are great for developing this technique.
In addition to vibrato, Billy Thorpe used a variety of other vocal techniques to create his unique sound. For example, he often employed a heavily distorted vocal sound on songs such as "It's Almost Summer." This is achieved by compressing the vocal cords and producing a harsh, almost screaming sound. Singers can develop this technique through exercises such as the “Vocal Distortion & Growling” exercise, which teaches how to use distortion in a healthy and controlled way.
To sing like Billy Thorpe, it is important to pay close attention to breath support and posture. Proper breathing technique is essential for producing a powerful and sustained vocal sound. Singing exercises such as the “Farinelli Breathing” exercise, which focuses on breathing from the diaphragm, can help you develop this skill. Additionally, maintaining good posture can help singers achieve better breath control, as well as projecting a more confident and energetic stage presence. The “Good Singing Posture” video is an excellent resource for learning how to achieve proper posture.
When songs like "Most People I Know," "Mashed Potato," and "It's Almost Summer" are performed flawlessly, they capture the essence of Billy Thorpe's unique vocal style. With Singing Carrots' resources, vocalists can emulate this iconic Australian singer’s techniques and replicate his style. You can find songs that match your vocal range and singing abilities with the search song function. Regardless of skill level, we believe anyone can learn to sing like Billy Thorpe and infuse their performances with the electrifying energy that made him a rock legend.