Singing Guide: Richard Smallwood Singers
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Richard Smallwood is a renowned gospel singer and composer, known for his exceptional ability to combine gospel music with the classical elegance of symphonies. In this guide, we’ll explore how to learn to sing like Richard Smallwood and highlight his unique vocal technique. We’ll discuss key aspects of his style, such as his use of chord progressions and chord inversions, and analyze his songs, such as “Total Praise” and “Center Of My Joy," as examples of his vocal style. But before we dive in, let’s review some essential vocal techniques.
One of the most crucial aspects of singing well is breathing. Good breath control improves one's vocal quality and reduces vocal straining. Check out Singing Carrots' articles on breathing basics and breath support for detailed guides. You can also try this Farinelli breathing exercise recommended by Singing Carrots.
Another key technique is understanding different voice registers, mastering your vocal range, and managing transitions across registers. Singing Carrots provides articles and exercises to help with understanding voice registers and overcoming vocal break.
Posture is crucial when singing as it affects the tone quality, breathing and stamina. Start by taking a look at Singing Carrots' article on how posture affects your singing and the "Good Singing Posture" video.
Now let’s talk about Richard Smallwood's unique vocal technique. Smallwood is known for producing rich, warm, and textured vocals with a great deal of spine-tingling vibrato. Some of the techniques that Smallwood employs in his music include:
- Chord Progressions and Inversions – Smallwood often uses unique chord inversions in his compositions, creating a sense of tension and dramatic release.
- Vibrato – he uses vibrato to add texture and emotion to his music.
- Delivery – Smallwood's performances are incredibly concentrated and purposeful, which helps him connect with his audience.
Smallwood's singing style is best showcased in his song "Total Praise," where he uses his soprano singing voice and his declamatory speaking voice in cue with the orchestra to create various effects. Another song, "Center Of My Joy," also emphasizes Smallwood’s vocal range and vibrato in the melismatic sections of the song.
To learn Smallwood's singing style, practice singing his songs with a higher range, work to develop your own vibrato, and learn to use chord inversions in your music. You can also try Singing Carrots' exercises on heavy modal, twang, and belting.
Let Singing Carrots help you on your journey to learning Richard Smallwood's singing style and reach new heights as a gospel singer. Singing Carrots offers a range of tools, including the vocal range test, pitch accuracy test, vocal pitch monitor, pitch training, search songs by vocal range, and the vocal health course to help you develop your singing skills. Check them out today.