The unique vocal technique of Nina Simone

Nina Simone was known for her deep, velvety, and raspy voice that conveyed so much feeling in every note. Here are some of Simone's vocal techniques to help you recreate her singing style:

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing: This technique emphasizes breathing deeply and from the diaphragm, allowing for better breath control and the ability to sustain notes for longer periods.
2. Vibrato is one of the techniques that Nina Simone used to add depth and texture to her music. She would use vibrato sparingly but would add it at critical times to highlight the emotion of her music.
3. Vocal Registers and Breaks: Nina Simone had a distinctive break in her voice that would switch between her chest and head voice registers while singing.
4. Vocal Resonance: Nina Simone's singing had a characteristic rough quality due to her unique vocal resonance. This technique can be achieved by having an open throat while singing.

To master these techniques, we recommend checking out these fantastic articles and videos on Singing Carrots, which show the exercises and techniques used to help you master vocal resonance, diaphragmatic breathing, vibrato, and voice registers:

• Breathing basics
• Voice registers and vocal break
• How to analyze your voice
• Vibrato:
  • Beggars Bounce
  • Diaphragm Bounce
• Chest Voice/Vocal Registers - Chest Voice Explained
• Articulation - Finger Bite
• Warm-up/Practice-starter - 3 Minute Warm Up
• Resonance in singing

Songs that showcase Nina Simone's unique vocal style

Nina Simone's unique vocal style shines in several of her pieces, and here are some songs that you can use to practice and showcase the techniques mentioned above:

1. Feeling Good - This song features a mix of chest and head voice resonance with smooth and jazzy vibrato at higher parts.
2. My Baby Just Cares for Me - This playful and sassy song is perfect to include the vocal resonance and vibrato techniques in your practice.
3. Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood- This emotive song is a perfect showcase for Nina Simone's vocal range and use of vibrato.
4. I Put a Spell on You - This song is an American classic. Nina Simone's voice oscillates between her chest and head voice registers, blending in a soothing and powerful delivery, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.

Relevant Singing Carrots Resources

Singing Carrots offers many helpful tools to help you Master the Art of Singing and learn from some great vocalists like Nina Simone. You can try these:

• Vocal range test
• Pitch accuracy test
• Vocal Pitch Monitor
• Pitch Training - Educational Singing Game
• Search songs by vocal range
• Vocal ranges of famous singers
• Educational singing course