Singing Guide: Dorinda Clark-Cole
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Are you a gospel music enthusiast interested in singing like legendary gospel artist Dorinda Clark-Cole? Well, you're in luck! In this article, we will teach you how to develop your voice just like the "Rose of Gospel".
Dorinda Clark-Cole is known for her spectacular technical proficiency, high operatic style and ability to belt out classic gospel tracks. As a singer looking to emulate her talent, you'll have to focus on certain aspects of your voice. Below are some tips to help you develop your voice to sing like the iconic gospel artist:
-
Work on your breathing techniques
As you sing, working on your breathing technique is crucial. It helps you to control your breath and sing with more power and range. Singers must not only draw breath into their bodies but to be able to release it in a controlled manner. Start with the Farinelli breathing exercise suggested in the reference videos to ensure your breathing and support is controlled and aligned.
-
Practice voice range and vocal registers
Dorinda Clark-Cole has a vast vocal range that incorporates different registers. As you try to develop your voice to match her, start by understanding your vocal range through the Vocal Range Test. Then try to sing along to different tunes matching your voice type as shown in the Pitch Accuracy Test to help develop those registers.
-
Sing with vibrato
To mimic Clark-Cole's impressive vocal style, it's important to learn to sing with vibrato. This skill is essential because it helps you to enhance your voice quality and to deliver notes powerfully. To gain a better understanding of vibrato, get started with the tutorial videos available in the reference - Beggars Bounce and Diaphragm Bounce.
-
Emphasize on warm-ups and practice starters
Warming-up before your singing sessions is incredibly important in developing your voice. It helps to protect you from accidental damage or strain while providing your muscles with the rest and exercise they need to build strength. Try starting with the exercises listed under Breath/Warm-up/Practice-starter and 3 Minute Warm Up.
-
Avoid Constrictions while Singing
Singing requires you to remain relaxed and open. Clenching of the jaw, tongue or throat muscles, results in constriction that limits the sound output. Avoid these constriction by opening up the mouth and throat as explained in this article to help improve your vocal cord flexibility.
-
Develop a vocal style with emotion and intuition while singing
Dorinda Clark-Cole's performance is the perfect embodiment of singing with emotion and intuition. As an artist, it's important to connect emotionally with your music, so the audience feels the message you're trying to convey. You can practice singing with emotion and intuition by trying out the exercises in the relaxing breath video.
-
Practice the songs that display Clarke-Cole's unique style
Clark-Cole's catalog carries some of the greatest works of Gospel music. For example, "Take It Back", "Bless This House" and "I'm Still Here", which are excellent songs to practice your technique when endeavoring to imitate her style. Check out the Singing Carrots Song Search feature to find songs that match your vocal range and genre preference.
To achieve excellent results in your singing, ensure you're safe by following this guide on vocal health and incorporating the best practices in your daily routine.
Thanks for reading and good luck!