Singing Guide: Crash Test Dummies
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Vocal Technique
Brad's voice stands out for its low, deep tone, and he uses it to deliver emotional, storytelling lyrics in a captivating way. To achieve that sound, he sings with great vocal control, using a technique called subharmonic singing, also known as overtone singing.
Subharmonic singing is achieved when the singer manipulates their larynx and throat muscles to amplify and isolate specific harmonics of their voice. This allows Brad to effectively create two sounds at the same time, a fundamental pitch and a lower overtone pitch, resulting in a unique and rich vocal texture.
Songs to Practice
A few songs by the Crash Test Dummies that showcase Brad's unique voice and technique are "Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm," "The Ballad Of Peter Pumpkinhead," and "God Shuffled His Feet."
Other great songs you can practice to develop your subharmonic singing technique and low notes are "Boris the Spider" by The Who, "The Low Spark of High-Heeled Boys" by Traffic, and "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" by The Tokens.
Practical Advice
To sing like Brad Roberts, you need to start by analyzing your voice and determining your vocal range. Singing Carrots offers a vocal range test that will help you discover your voice's natural limits.
It's also important to maintain good singing posture and practice active and passive breathing techniques to support your voice and avoid constriction. Study the articles on breath support and posture on Singing Carrots to master these skills.
Additionally, the pitch accuracy test and vocal pitch monitor tools will help you fine-tune your ear and ensure you're hitting every note accurately.
Finally, if you're serious about learning to sing like Brad Roberts, consider taking Singing Carrots' educational singing course for beginners. This 21-lesson program covers singing theory and practical tips to help you level up your skills and build a strong foundation for your singing career.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Brad Roberts' low, deep voice and unique subharmonic singing technique make the Crash Test Dummies' music stand out. With Singing Carrots' vocal range test and training tools, combined with the practical tips and exercises provided, you too can learn to sing like Brad and master the art of subharmonic singing. So get practicing, and have fun exploring the depths of your own voice!