Grover Washington Jr. Singing Techniques: How to Sound Like Him

Grover Washington Jr. was an American jazz-funk saxophonist who became popular in the 1970s. His unique style of saxophone playing was characterized by a smooth, melodic sound, combined with funk and soul elements.

To learn to sing like Grover Washington Jr., you must master the following techniques:

1. Breath Control and Support

As with any style of singing, it is essential to develop good breath control and support. To do this, try the Farinelli Breathing exercise.

2. Embouchure

To achieve Washington's signature smooth saxophone sound, you should focus on developing your embouchure, the way your lips and mouth shape the reed. Try and find a comfortable yet firm pressure on the mouthpiece. You can also experiment with slightly biting the reed to get a bright tone.

3. Vibrato

Washington often used vibrato to add depth and emotion to his playing. Check out the following videos showing how to produce good vibrato: Beggars Bounce and Diaphragm Bounce.

4. Dynamics and Phrasing

Washington was a master of dynamics and phrasing, using subtle variations in volume and tone to create a memorable performance. Practice your dynamics with the Comfort Zone exercise.

5. Rhythm and Groove

Funk and soul are all about the rhythm and groove. To develop this, try working with the Sustain Vocal exercise.

Washington was known for signature songs, such as 'Just The Two Of Us.' Listening and practice singing his music will improve your ability to sing like Washington, especially with a focus on his unique techniques.

Using these tips, combined with an understanding of vocal health, posture, and pitch accuracy, you can develop the skills necessary to become an accomplished singer, playing beautiful Jazz-funk music like Grover Washington Jr.

Take Singing Carrot's Educational Singing Course to learn music theory and practical tips. The course contains the essential knowledge to become an accomplished singer, providing practical exercises, improvement plans, and vocal analysis services. You can also improve your vocal range by taking the Vocal Range Test and find songs that suit your style, range, and preferences using the Song Search.

Remember, developing good singing techniques is a lifelong journey. Be patient with yourself, practice regularly, and enjoy the experience of discovering your own unique voice!