Singing Guide: Joel Houston
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Joel Houston is one of the most recognizable names in the world of contemporary Christian music. He is the lead singer of the popular worship band Hillsong United. Joel's unique style of singing is characterized by his emotive delivery, distinctive range, and his ability to effortlessly float between chest voice and falsetto. What sets Joel apart is his ability to create a deep emotional connection with his audience by infusing every note he sings with heart and soul.
If you're looking to learn how to sing like Joel Houston, there are a few key techniques you can focus on. One of the most important things to master is breath control. Joel's emotional delivery is heavily reliant on his ability to control his breath, especially during long, sustained notes. Hillsong United's song "Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)" is a great example of this. The opening lines of the song feature Joel singing a long, sustained note that builds in intensity as the song progresses. To achieve a similar effect, practice your breathing by doing exercises like the Farinelli breathing exercise, which can be found on Singing Carrots.
Another key technique to master when singing like Joel Houston is vocal dynamics. Joel has an incredible ability to build intensity in his singing, often starting with a soft, delicate delivery before gradually building to a powerful, emotive climax. To master this technique, try practicing with songs like "Touch the Sky," where Joel uses his masterful control of dynamics to create a sense of intimacy and reverence. Practicing with vocal exercises such as the sustain vocal exercise on Singing Carrots can help you develop the same level of control.
In addition to Joel's distinctive singing style, the songs he sings are an important part of his legacy. "Hosanna" is an example of a great song that showcases Joel's unique style of singing. It features soaring vocals and a powerful build-up that gradually grows in intensity before reaching a dramatic crescendo. "All I Need is You" is another example of a great song that highlights Joel's range and emotion. To learn more about how to sing specific songs, check out the article on how to learn a song effectively on Singing Carrots.
Finally, it's important to remember that singing like Joel Houston is an ongoing process that requires dedication and practice. Developing your singing technique takes time and effort, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Practice regularly, use resources like the Singing Carrots range test and pitch accuracy test to measure your progress, and be patient. With time and practice, you can learn to sing like Joel Houston and forge your own path in the world of contemporary Christian music.
I hope this article has been helpful. For more useful resources on singing and vocal technique, check out the other articles and resources available on Singing Carrots.