Singing Guide: Jan & Dean
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Jan & Dean are a legendary American rock duo, known for their memorable hits and iconic surf sound. Their distinctive harmonies and upbeat style have made them one of the most beloved and influential acts of the 1960s. If you're looking to learn how to sing like Jan & Dean, there are a number of key techniques and songs that you should focus on.
The first thing to understand about the Jan & Dean sound is their use of vocal harmonies. They often employ close harmonies and unison singing, so it's important to be able to blend your voice with others and sing in tune. Singing lessons that focus on ear training and vocal pitch training can help you develop this skill. Singing along with Jan & Dean's recordings and working on your harmonization technique is also essential.
Another important aspect of the Jan & Dean sound is their surf-inflected vocal style. They often use a lot of reverb and echo, which gives their singing a distinctive sense of space and depth. If you're looking to replicate this sound, consider investing in some quality vocal effects pedals or plugins, which can help you achieve the right tone and atmosphere. Singing lessons that focus on breath control and projection can also help you achieve the energetic, full-throated singing style that Jan & Dean are known for.
In terms of specific songs, there are a number of Jan & Dean classics that showcase their unique vocal approach. "Surf City" is one of their most beloved hits, featuring catchy harmonies and a driving guitar riff. "Little Old Lady from Pasadena" is another upbeat tune with a memorable chorus and lots of vocal layering. "Dead Man's Curve" is a great example of Jan & Dean's storytelling prowess, with evocative harmonies and a dramatic vocal arrangement.
If you're looking to learn more about singing like Jan & Dean, Singing Carrots has plenty of resources to help you. You can take the vocal range test to determine your own range and compare it to Jan & Dean's recordings. Pitch accuracy tests, Pitch Training, and the Vocal Pitch Monitor will all help you develop your pitch control and vocal agility. You can also search for songs by vocal range and explore the vocal ranges of famous singers to better understand how Jan & Dean achieved their unique vocal character.
In conclusion, learning to sing like Jan & Dean requires a combination of technical skill, ear training, and an understanding of their unique vocal style. With the right resources and plenty of practice, however, you can develop the skills you need to achieve the same exciting, dynamic vocal sound that made Jan & Dean a legend.