Singing Guide: Phil Harris

Singing Guide: Phil Harris

Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources

Are you a beginner or advanced singer?

Phil Harris was an American actor, singer, and songwriter. He was popular in the 1930s and 1940s as a band leader and voice actor in animated films and radio. In this article, we'll learn how to sing like Phil Harris so that you can impress your audience with your subtle and soulful style.

Vocal Technique

Harris's unique vocal style can be described as laid-back, casual, and conversational. He was known for his relaxed, jazzy phrasing, and his ability to convey emotion without ever pushing too hard. To sing like Phil Harris, you need to develop your own laid back style and perfect your phrasing.

Start by analyzing your voice to find your natural range. Use Singing Carrots' vocal range test to determine your range and compare it to famous singers. Once you've identified your range, choose songs that highlight it and practice them till you feel comfortable. You can find songs with your vocal range using Singing Carrots song search tool.

To sing like Harris, emulate his laid-back phrasing and his soft, almost conversational tone. Listen to his recordings and try to copy his style using Singing Carrots' Pitch Training tool. This interactive vocal training software helps you use visual feedback to improve your pitch accuracy and train your hearing.

Use Singing Carrots' Vocal Pitch Monitor to see how you're performing in real-time. This tool will show you what notes you're hitting and how they compare to the song's melody. By using this tool, you'll see where you need to improve your pitch and work to perfect your vocal tone.

Phil Harris' Songs to Showcase his Style

Harris' music embodies feelings of nostalgia and comfort, with laid-back instrumentals and his warm, conversational singing style. Here are a few of his classic songs that showcase his unique vocal technique:

  • "The Thing" - A playful, upbeat tune with a catchy melody and whimsical lyrics. Singing this song can help you develop a playful style and perfect your phrasing.
  • "I'm in the Mood for Love" - This smooth and soulful tune showcases Harris's jazzy vocal style. Singing this song will help you practice your improvisation and phrasing while maintaining control over your voice.
  • "That's What I Like About the South" - This tune features Harris’s signature style when it comes to singing – as if he's talking more than singing. Singing this song will help you understand how to balance singing and speaking sounds in a song.

Practical Tips

To perfect your singing style, it's crucial to maintain good vocal health. Use Singing Carrots' articles to maintain vocal health by developing healthy habits, learn how to breathe properly, and use diaphragmatic support while singing. Additionally, practice correct posture while singing, as it allows for better breath control and helps develop your tone.

Other practical tips to improve your singing include:

  • Listen to the original performer's version of the song to familiarize yourself with the tone and phrasing.
  • Emulate what you hear, focusing on the subtle inflections that give the song its unique style.
  • Use Singing Carrots' vocal training tools to improve your pitch accuracy and hearing.

Finally, keep in mind that everyone has a unique voice, and the goal is to develop your own style. Learn from Phil Harris but don't forget to make it your own. Happy singing!

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