Singing Guide: Casting Crowns feat. Matt Maher
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
If you're looking to learn singing like Matt Maher
who joined Casting Crowns on their hit single "Nobody" in 2020, then get ready to dive deep into his particular style, lyrics, and range.
Matt Maher's unique vocal style is characterized by his versatile vocal range, which can switch seamlessly from a raw and gravelly voice, best showcased in his hit song "Alive Again," to a soaring and emotive falsetto of "Lord I need You." He's also known for his trademark spontaneity and heartfelt approach to his music, which is heavily inspired by Christian and gospel music.
To start developing your singing range like Matt Maher, you'll need to begin with his unique vocal technique, which is based on traditional Christian music styles. The first thing you want to focus on is mastering your breathing techniques, because that will improve your vocal range and control. Practicing breath support exercises from resources like Singing Carrots' Breath Support article is going to be crucial for your success.
You should also work on your singing posture, not only to improve your voice projection but to avoid injury. Check out Singing Carrots' How to Overcome Stage Fright to learn how to stand confidently and overcome stage fright when you're performing.
Once you've relaxed your posture, the next step is to focus on your vocal range. This can be achieved by practicing vocal exercises from Singing Carrots' Pitch Training resource, including pitch accuracy tests, vocal warm-ups, and range test, and searching songs that matches your vocal range in their "Song Search" feature.
Matt Maher's vocal technique is on full display in "Alive Again," which features his raw singing voice in the lower register, combined with a higher-pitched falsetto bridge. Practice climbing up and down octaves in pitch deviation with exercises like the Twang and Vibrato exercises from Singing Carrots' Skill-related videos, and you'll begin to hone your singing style like Matt Maher.
For vocal resonance and vibrato, an essential element of Matt Maher's singing style, you can work on adding chromatic intonation to your singing by practicing vocal resonance exercises like Singing Carrots' Singing With Vibrato article. This will also help you to add a unique flavor and style to your singing, just as Matt Maher does.
As you develop your unique voice, keep in mind that the lyrical content is just as important as the vocal style. For example, casting crowns' song "Nobody" conveys a positive message that highlights the idea that nobody can fill the emptiness inside you, except God. Focus on adding a genuine emotional connection to the songs you sing, as Matt Maher does in his music.
In summary, to start developing your singing range to match Matt Maher, concentrate on breathing techniques, vocal range, posture, and emotional interpretation. Utilize the Singing Carrots resources to help you build core skills essential to your success as a singer.