How to Learn to Sing Like Pat Benatar

If you're a pop or rock vocalist looking to improve your skills, then you may find yourself drawn to someone like Pat Benatar. There is no doubt that Pat has one of the strongest, most recognizable voices in rock music history. However, there is a lot of work that goes into being able to mimic her sound.

Vocal Range and Type

Pat Benatar has an incredible vocal range, stretching from a mezzo-soprano to a high soprano. As a singer, it’s important to know your voice type and range. Take our vocal range test or read our article on voice types to identify your vocal range and type.

Vocal Technique

As with all vocalists, technique is key. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Breathing: Pat's ability to hold a note for an extended period is made possible through her excellent breathing technique. Check out our article on breathing basics and breath support for tips to improve your breathing.
• Vocal Registers: Pat Benatar utilizes both her chest and head voice frequently, which is typical of a mezzo-soprano singer. Learn more about voice registers and vocal break.
• Resonance and Vibrato: Pat has an incredible bright and resonant tone that makes her sound so unique. Check out our article on resonance in singing and singing with vibrato to learn more about creating that bright, resonant tone and vibrato.
• Articulation: Pat has excellent articulation. Check out our article on articulation and our finger bite exercise.
• Performance: Pat Benatar is a great example of a singer who knows how to perform. A good way to improve performance skills is to work on stage presence, confidence, and emotion control. Check out our article on how to overcome stage fright and tips for performing on stage.
• Nasality: Sometimes singers can sound nasal. Pat Benatar avoids sounding nasal using vocal techniques like open mouth & throat singing.

Pat Benatar's Vocal Techniques and Songs

The signature sound of Pat Benatar is her powerful, gritty and heart-wrenching vocals that suit both rock and ballads. Check out her songs, analyze her vocal techniques, and consider how you can incorporate them into your own performances.

• Heartbreaker: This song uses a lot of aggressive chest voice. In fact, it’s a great exercise for understanding chest voice.
• Love Is a Battlefield: This song shows off Pat Benatar's incredible pipes in terms of power and range. Check out the opening's pitch accuracy in our pitch accuracy test and use our vocal pitch monitor tool to see the range she needs.
• Invincible: This is a belted, powerful song that requires a lot of breath support. Use our pitch training tool to improve your breath control.
• Hit Me with Your Best Shot: This song showcases Pat Benatar’s ability to handle high notes comfortably while also making use of twang technique. Check out our Twang Exercise video.