Singing Guide: Bobby Darin
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Bobby Darin was an American singer, songwriter, and actor. He was a versatile artist who performed a wide range of music genres, including pop, rock and roll, jazz, swing, and folk. One remarkable aspect of Darin's singing style was his ability to seamlessly switch between different vocal registers, from a smooth and controlled baritone to a powerful and emotive tenor.
One of the most distinctive elements of Bobby Darin's singing was his use of rhythmic phrasing. He often played with the melody by using syncopated rhythms and unexpected pauses. For example, in his famous hit "Mack the Knife," he used this technique to create an infectious swing feel that captured the spirit of the song.
Aspiring singers looking to learn from Bobby Darin's style can start by studying his vocal technique and rhythm. Singers should focus on developing control over their vocal registers, working on breathing exercises, and using their diaphragm to support their voice.
To help with this, Singing Carrots offers a range of resources. Singers can use the vocal range test to determine their range and identify which songs are within their capabilities. The pitch accuracy test can help singers develop their intonation skills, while the vocal pitch monitor can help them improve by visualizing their pitch accuracy on a virtual piano.
For Bobby Darin's style specifically, the Pitch Training exercises can help singers work on their syncopated rhythms, with exercises that help singers develop control and accuracy over their rhythm. Additionally, Singing Carrots offers a wide range of songs for singers to practice on, including songs from Bobby Darin's repertoire.
Aside from the technical aspects of singing, singers can also learn from Bobby Darin's emotive and engaging stage presence. Singers can benefit from studying Darin's use of body language, facial expressions, and dynamics to enhance the emotional impact of his performances.
To learn more about singing techniques, we suggest the following Singing Carrots articles:
- How to analyze your voice
- Breathing basics
- Voice registers & vocal break
- Breath support
- Open mouth & throat
- Avoiding constrictions
- Contemporary vocal techniques: Heavy modal, Twang, Belting
- Vocal distortion & Growling
- Singing with Vibrato
- Articulation
- Resonance in singing
- Vocal health
- How posture affects your singing
- How to overcome stage fright
- Tips for performing on stage
For videos, Singing Carrots offers a wide range of vocal exercises that can help singers develop their technique and style. The following videos are recommended for singers looking to learn from Bobby Darin's style:
- Singing Comfort Zone - Chest Voice/Voice Registers
- Voice Break - Voice Registers/Mixed Voice/Voice Break
- Soft Palate