Singing Guide: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Welcome to Singing Carrots! Are you a fan of 'Dirty Rotten Scoundrels'? If so, you're in luck because this article will guide you through learning to master singing like Freddy Benson, played by Steve Martin, in the movie. To sing like Freddy Benson, you need to learn how to sing comfortably and use twang as part of your singing technique.
First, let's look at what twang means in singing. Twang is the certain way to create the most efficient, robust and resonant sound for most male voices whereas vocal fold density is a more critical element for female voices. Positively, twang can increase the power and sustain of singing.
First off, try understanding the song being tackled. In the case of Steve Martin/Freddy Benson, "Great Big Stuff" is a great selection. Listen to recordings of Steve Martin's live performances or to the original version to get a grasp of the melody, rhythm, and accompaniment. Once you've done that, check out Singing Carrots' pitch accuracy test and range test to know your range and accuracy level then compare yourself with the original artist. Once you've warmed up and figured out where your voice fits in the song, record yourself singing and compare to the original recording. Here are some practical Singing Carrots resources to help master twang:
- Watch this video to learn how to execute the twang singing technique: How to Twang Exercise
- Here's a video to help learn how to use growling in your singing. Steve Martin employs growling in his delivery: How to Growl Exercise
- Vibrato is another technique that adds character to a singer's delivery. Check out this video to learn how to incorporate vibrato to your singing: Singing with Vibrato
- Chest voice and voice registers are important aspects to Freddy Benson's singing style. Watch this video to learn how to develop a powerful chest voice: Chest Voice Explained
- Warm up with the 'Farinelli Breathing' video. This will help you prepare and maintain good breath control when singing Great Big Stuff or any other high-energy song.
- Finally, read the 'Singing with Intuition, Skills, Emotion, and Thinking' article and learn how to control your emotions when performing live, especially the stage performance tactics to deal with nervousness: Singing with Intuition, Skills, Emotion, and Thinking
With these singing tips, articles, videos, and tools provided by Singing Carrots, you'll be ready to perform like Steve Martin's character in no time. Remember, it's all about putting in the practice time and being patient with yourself. Good luck!