Singing Guide: Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World

Singing Guide: Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World

Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources

Are you a beginner or advanced singer?

If you want to learn how to sing like Native American singing chief Powhatan, you should know that he is voiced by the amazing singer and actor, Russell Means. Means, born in South Dakota, was an Oglala Lakota and became one of the best-known Native American activists and speakers of his time. He died in 2012, but his unique voice and singing style continue to captivate audiences today.

To copy his unique style, you should start by practicing your breathing. Means had a deep, resonant voice that was always full and powerful. Work on keeping your chest open and expanding your diaphragm to increase your lung capacity. For more guidance on breathing techniques, check out Singing Carrots' breathing basics article.

Next, practice singing with an open throat. Means had a very clear, distinct voice that stood out from the crowd. To copy his style, try the exercises in Singing Carrots' open mouth and throat article.

Another unique feature of Means' singing style was his use of traditional Native American vocal techniques, like hitting a high vowel and sliding down. To master these techniques, try Singing Carrots' Vocal Pitch Monitor or pitch training game, which works with a virtual piano to help you visualize your pitching along with your singing.

When selecting songs to sing, look for traditional Native American songs that feature Powhatan's distinctive and emotive style. Two great examples that you might try are the soulful "The Colors of the Wind" and "Where Do I Go From Here?"

To learn more about singing techniques, consider enrolling in Singing Carrots' singing course for beginners.

By practicing often and utilizing Singing Carrots' vocal exercises and insightful articles, you'll be on the road to singing like Powhatan in no time!

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