Singing Guide: Manfred Mann

Singing Guide: Manfred Mann

Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources

Are you a beginner or advanced singer?

Manfred Mann, born Manfred Sepse Lubowitz, is a South African-born British keyboardist, guitarist, and singer, best known as the founding member of his namesake band. Mann's soulful and bluesy voice, combined with his eclectic musical style, have made him an influential figure in the rock and pop scenes of the 60s and 70s.

To learn to sing like Manfred Mann, it's important to first understand his distinctive singing style. Mann's signature sound is characterized by his deep, rich voice, which he often infuses with a soulful, bluesy tone. He's also known for his unique phrasing and timing, often accenting off-beats and syncopating his delivery to create a sense of tension and release in his music.

If you want to learn to sing like Manfred Mann, there are a few key strategies you can try. Here are some tips to get you started:

  1. Master the blues scale

    One of the hallmarks of Mann's style is his use of the minor blues scale. This seven-note scale is a foundation of blues and rock music, and mastering it can help you emulate Mann's distinctive tonality. Use Singing Carrots' pitch training to help you get started with this.

  2. Practice phrasing and timing

    Mann's phrasing and timing are key aspects of his unique sound. Listen closely to his music and pay attention to the way he accents certain notes and syncopates his rhythms. Try to mimic these patterns in your own singing, using the Pitch Accuracy Test or Vocal Range Test to compare yourself to Mann.

  3. Experiment with rhythm

    One of the most distinctive elements of Mann's music is his use of complex rhythms and syncopation. Experiment with different rhythms and accents in your singing, using the resources at Singing Carrots to help you identify whether you are on pitch or harmonizing with Mann's style.

  4. Explore Mann's catalog

    Finally, one of the best ways to learn to sing like Mann is simply to listen to as much of his music as possible. Pay attention to his phrasing, timing, and tonality, and try to incorporate these elements into your own singing. Use Singing Carrots' search function to explore Mann's catalog, and find the songs that best showcase his unique style, such as "Do Wah Diddy", "Blinded by the Light" and "Mighty Quinn".

By mastering the blues scale, perfecting your phrasing and timing, experimenting with rhythm, and exploring Mann's catalog, you can learn to sing like this legendary musician and infuse your own performances with his soulful, bluesy style.

Learn more about this artist vocal range, voice type and repertoire.