Singing Guide: Hikaru Utada & Skrillex
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
If you're a fan of both Hikaru Utada and Skrillex, then you've probably heard their epic collaboration on the song "Face My Fears." This song features the unique vocal style of Hikaru Utada, who is known for her powerful and emotional singing. If you're interested in singing like her and incorporating some of her vocal techniques into your own performance, here are some tips to get you started.
First and foremost, it's important to understand your own voice and what type of singer you are. Take the time to analyze your voice through vocal range and voice type tests, available on Singing Carrots' website. Learning about your vocal skeleton, physiology and voice registers will provide a better understanding of how to utilize your voice, making it easier to implement some of Hikaru Utada's singing styles into your own performance.
One of Hikaru Utada's most unique vocal techniques is her use of vibrato. Mastering vibrato takes time, and you can start by practicing it in your vocal warm-ups with the guidance of vocal coach in Singing Carrots' pitch training sessions. Pay attention to how she transitions from chest voice to mixed voice, vocal breaks and control, and learn to do this smoothly through scales and exercises.
Another important aspect of her singing is the modulation of her voice. With the right breath support, articulation, and use of mixed voice, you can also ensure that each note you sing has depth and emotion behind it. With this in mind, take time to practice your breath control using the Farinelli breathing exercise in Singing Carrot's' videos.
Aside from these specific techniques, it's also important to be aware of your posture, head movement and stage presence. Singing effectively is as much about the way you engage your audience as it is about your vocal capabilities. Check out Singing Carrots' video on good singing posture and Relaxing Breath video, to help with voice and stage control.
Finally, practice, practice, practice. Take advantage of Singing Carrots' song search to find songs and exercises that will help you in this area. And most importantly, always keep singing fun!
Remember, these tips are just the beginning of your vocal journey. There's so much to learn about singing, and Singing Carrots' educational singing course can guide you further.