Singing Guide: Ross Parsley and the Desperation Band
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Ross Parsley is an exceptional vocalist, worship leader, and songwriter. He is the lead singer of the Desperation Band, a Christian worship band that has released over a dozen albums since the late 1990s. Ross Parsley is renowned for his ability to deliver powerful, heart-stirring performances that are both technically precise and emotionally evocative.
Listen and Learn
The first step in learning to sing like Ross Parsley is to listen to his recordings. Pay close attention to the tone, phrasing, and dynamics of his voice. Notice how he delivers the lyrics with passion and conviction, and how he uses vibrato and other vocal techniques to add emotion to his performances.
Some of Ross Parsley's most popular songs include "Overcome," "My Savior Lives," and "I Am Free." Choose several of his songs to study and practice singing along with. Focus on getting the phrasing and dynamics just right, and use Singing Carrots' Vocal Pitch Monitor to help you stay on key.
Work on Breath and Posture
Ross Parsley's powerful singing is made possible by excellent breath control and posture. He takes deep breaths from his diaphragm, which allows him to support his voice and deliver long, sustained notes. He also maintains good posture, which helps him project his voice and deliver his performances with energy and confidence.
To improve your own breath control and posture, check out Singing Carrots' breathing exercises and tips on good singing posture. The Farinelli Breathing Exercise can help you build strength and control in your diaphragm, while the Good Singing Posture video can teach you how to sit or stand for optimal vocal performance.
Work on Your Vibrato
Ross Parsley is known for his beautiful vibrato, which adds depth and emotion to his performances. You can develop your own vibrato by practicing sustained notes and gradually adding a slight waver to your tone. Singing Carrots' videos on singing with vibrato can help you learn this technique and incorporate it into your singing.
Explore Different Vocal Techniques
Ross Parsley and the Desperation Band use a variety of vocal techniques in their music, ranging from soft, delicate passages to powerful, full-throated choruses. Some of the most common techniques they use include chest voice, vocal registers, and articulation.
To develop these techniques, check out Singing Carrots' videos and articles on vocal registers, articulation, and chest voice. Practice chest voice exercises to build strength and control in your lower range, and explore the difference between chest, mixed, and head voice.
Participate in Singing Carrots' Singing Course
Finally, consider signing up for Singing Carrots' 21-lesson singing course. This course covers the basics of singing theory, including breath support and articulation, and provides practical tips and exercises to help you improve your singing skills. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced singer, this course can help you strengthen your voice and develop the skills needed to sing like Ross Parsley.
In conclusion, learning to sing like Ross Parsley and the Desperation Band takes time, effort, and practice. But by listening and learning from their music, practicing good breath control and posture, developing your vibrato, exploring different vocal techniques, and participating in Singing Carrots' singing course, you can develop the skills needed to sing with power and emotion, just like Ross Parsley.