Carl Carlton - The Bad CC

Carl Carlton, also known as "The Bad CC" is one of the greatest funk and soul singers of his era. His distinctive voice, characterized by intricate embellishments and dynamic range, is a unique blend of power, sensitivity, and groove that can inspire many aspiring singers. In this article, I will share some tips on how to learn to sing like Carl Carlton, highlighting his vocal technique, and recommending some of his most famous songs.

Vocal Technique

To sing like Carl Carlton, you'll need to master the following vocal techniques:

• Soulful phrasing: To capture the essence of Carl Carlton's singing, you need to learn how to phrase with emotion and syncopation. You can develop this skill by listening to his songs and paying attention to how he accentuates certain words and syllables.
• Use of vibrato: Vibrato is a subtle oscillation in pitch that can add depth and richness to your singing. Carl Carlton is a master of vibrato and uses it in almost every song he sings. Check out this video to learn how to develop your own vibrato.
• Isolation of registers: Carl Carlton has an impressive range, and he often switches between chest and head voice. This technique requires you to isolate each register and learn how to transition between them seamlessly.
• Use of falsetto: Falsetto is a vocal technique that creates a breathy and airy sound. This technique can add a lot of emotional depth to your singing, and Carl Carlton uses it to great effect in many of his songs.
• Emotional expression: Carl Carlton is a master at conveying emotion through his singing. To sing like him, you need to learn how to tap into your emotions and express them through your singing.

Famous Songs

Here are some of Carl Carlton's most famous songs that showcase his unique vocal technique:

1. "Everlasting Love": This song is a classic example of Carl Carlton's use of vibrato and emotional expression.
2. "She's a Bad Mama Jama": This hit song showcases Carl Carlton's incredible range and use of falsetto.
3. "Swing That Sexy Thang": This dance track showcases Carl Carlton's soulful phrasing and intricate embellishments.
4. "Private Property": This funk classic showcases Carl Carlton's dynamic range and use of isolation of registers.

Practical Advice

To learn to sing like Carl Carlton, it is essential to practice consistently and have a disciplined approach to your vocal training. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

• Warm-up exercises: Use the "Farinelli breathing" exercise to warm up your voice before every practice session.
• Use technology: Singing Carrots has a wide variety of tools to help you in your vocal training. Use the Pitch Accuracy Test to assess your pitch accuracy, and the Pitch Training tool to develop your vocal range and agility.
• Listen to Carl Carlton's music: By listening to Carl Carlton's songs, you can learn how to emulate his unique singing style.
• Practice with a metronome: Use this three-minute warm-up exercise to practice singing in time with a metronome, which can help you develop your rhythm and timing.
• Rest your voice: It's essential to take regular breaks and rest your voice to prevent strain and injury.

By incorporating these practical tips into your practice routine and using the resources provided by Singing Carrots, you too can learn to sing like Carl Carlton. With discipline and dedication, you can develop the skills and techniques necessary to capture the essence of this legendary soul singer.