Singing Guide: Carla Thomas
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Carla Thomas, known as the Queen of Memphis Soul, started singing with her father Rufus Thomas at Stax Records. Her vocal style is characterized by power, control, and expression. Often, she demonstrates impressive range and vocal agility, transitioning between chest, head, and mixed voice with ease.
To learn how to sing like Carla Thomas, you should start by determining your vocal range with this Vocal range test. Once you know what notes are comfortable for you, start practicing songs that showcase Carla's unique vocal style, such as "Gee Whiz," "B-A-B-Y," and "Let Me Be Good to You."
Breath support is a crucial aspect of Carla's singing style. Learn the basics of breathing with this Breathing basics article, and practice exercises such as Farinelli Breathing - demonstrated in this video - to improve your breath management.
Carla's vocal range and agility are impressive. Learn how to transition between different voice registers with this Voice Registers & Vocal Break article, and practice with exercises such as the Voice Break - demonstrated in this video - and the Mixed Voice - demonstrated in this video.
To achieve the power and control that Carla has in her singing, learn how to open your mouth and throat with this Open Mouth & Throat article. You can also practice with exercises such as the Humming - demonstrated in this video - and the Soft Palate - demonstrated in this video.
Carla's voice is also filled with emotion and expression. Learn how to connect with your own emotions while singing with this Singing with Intuition, Skills, Emotion, and Thinking article. You can also practice with exercises such as the Relaxing Breath - demonstrated in this video.
Finally, remember to take care of your voice. Learn about proper vocal health with this Vocal Health article, and practice good posture with this How Posture Affects Your Singing article.
By incorporating these resources and tips into your practice routine, you can learn to sing like Carla Thomas and develop a unique and powerful soulful voice of your own.