Singing Guide: Hovie Lister & the Statesmen
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Hovie Lister & the Statesmen were one of the most influential Southern Gospel groups of the 20th century. Known for their smooth harmonies, electrifying performances, and unique musical style, this legendary group had a profound impact on the world of gospel singing.
If you're looking to learn how to sing like Hovie Lister & the Statesmen, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First and foremost, it's important to understand the group's unique vocal technique. A key aspect of their sound was the use of close harmonies. This required each member of the group to have an exceptional ear for pitch and an ability to blend their voice seamlessly with others.
To develop this skill, it's important to practice singing in close harmony with others. One excellent tool for achieving this is Singing Carrots' pitch training program, which provides vocal warm-ups and exercises for enhancing your range and agility.
In addition to close harmonies, Hovie Lister & the Statesmen were also known for their smooth, effortless vocal technique. To achieve this sound, they utilized a combination of breath control and resonance. Practicing breath control exercises and learning to open your mouth and throat while singing, as described in Singing Carrots' breathing basics article, can help you develop this technique.
As for specific songs to showcase the Statesmen's sound, "Oh What A Savior," "I'll Meet You In The Morning," and "Led Out Of Bondage" are all great examples of their unique vocal style. Studying these songs and attempting to replicate their sound can be a great way to develop your own vocal technique.
Finally, it's worth noting that Hovie Lister & the Statesmen were known for their high-energy, electrifying performances. To truly capture their spirit, it's important to practice performing with confidence and emotional control. Singing Carrots has several articles and videos on this topic, such as "relaxing breath," "how to overcome stage fright," and "tips for performing on stage," that can be valuable resources in this endeavor.
In conclusion, learning to sing like Hovie Lister & the Statesmen is no simple task, but with the right techniques, practice, and resources, it's possible to achieve a sound that approaches their legendary status. Remember to focus on close harmonies, breath control and resonance, and high-energy performances, and utilize Singing Carrots' pitch training and other tools to help you develop your technique.