Learning to Sing like Massive Attack

Massive Attack was one of the most groundbreaking bands of the trip-hop era. The band created a unique, atmospheric sound with layers of instrumentation and a range of guest vocalists. The band's sound is marked by dark and moody textures, and the vocals are often understated. To sing like Massive Attack, you will need to master some key elements of the trip-hop vocal style.

1. Control Your Breathing

Breathing control is the foundation for all good singing. Learning to control your breath will allow you to sustain notes and project your voice more effectively. On Singing Carrots, you can find a vocal breathing exercise with line counting that will help get your breathing in shape.

2. Use Space to Your Advantage

Massive Attack's music is characterised by huge spaces and vast echoes. To create that same sense of space in your vocals, you need to be judicious in your use of silence. Make sure to pause before and after phrases. Singing with a spacious, breathy delivery can help you achieve that ethereal trip-hop sound.

3. Experiment with Timbre

Trip-hop vocals often feature unusual timbres and effects. You can experiment with this by using different modes of resonance when you sing, for example, with the lips closed or slightly open. Singing Carrots has articles on Resonance in Singing and Articulation that will help you understand the different ways sounds are formed and how to play with them.

4. Study Massive Attack's Songs

Study the singing style of Massive Attack's various guest vocalists such as Elizabeth Fraser in Teardrop or Shara Nelson in Unfinished Sympathy. Notice the way they bend notes, use intricate phrasing, and create haunting melodies.

5. Train Your Vocal Range and Accuracy

Massive Attack is known for creating music with a broad vocal range. They incorporate both deep bass vocals and high pitched notes. To sing like Massive Attack, you will need to develop your vocal range and accuracy. Use Singing Carrots vocal training for Pitch Accuracy and Range tests to understand your natural vocal capability.

6. Emphasise Emotions and Mood

Massive Attack's music is all about mood, atmosphere and the emotions it evokes. Take the time to connect with the emotions of the songs and let those emotions dictate the way you deliver each line.

By using Singing Carrots, you can access all of the relevant resources to help you learn to sing like Massive Attack. Explore Vocal Range Tests, Pitch Accuracy, Vocal Pitch Monitor, Pitch Training exercises, and Song Search to further develop your skills.