Singing Guide: Sonny & Cher
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
If you aspire to sing like one of the most iconic duets of all time, look no further than Sonny & Cher. The duo made waves in the 1960s and 70s with their unique style and sound. Sonny Bono, the group's tenor, had a distinctive nasal quality to his voice that made him stand out, while Cher's powerful contralto voice was celebrated for its vibrato and emotional depth. In this article, we will explore how to learn to sing like Sonny & Cher, highlighting their unique vocal techniques and the songs that showcase them.
One of the most notable aspects of Sonny's singing voice was his use of glottal stops. A glottal stop occurs when the vocal cords come together abruptly to create a stopped sound. You can hear this in songs such as "I Got You Babe" and "The Beat Goes On." To learn this technique, it's important to develop strong breath support and control. Singing exercises such as the Farinelli breathing exercise can help with this, as can Singing Carrots' Pitch Training.
Cher's voice was characterized by its rich vibrato and emotional depth. To develop vibrato, start by practicing sustained notes and gradually introducing a slight wavering in pitch. "Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves" and "Half Breed" showcase Cher's powerful vocals beautifully. Singers can also develop their vibrato further with Singing Carrots' Vibrato exercise.
Another hallmark of Sonny & Cher's music was their use of vocal harmonies. To practice harmonizing, start by singing in unison with the original track or a backing track, then gradually introduce your own harmonies. "The Beat Goes On" is a great example of their tight harmonies, and Singing Carrots' Search tool can help you find songs with similar harmonies.
In addition to developing specific techniques, it's important to emphasize correct posture and comfortable breathing. Singing Carrots' breathing basics, breath support, and posture resources are great places to start.
By practicing these techniques, you too can learn to sing like Sonny & Cher. Keep in mind that vocal coaching and practice are essential to achieving the quality and nuance of their sound. Singing Carrots' educational singing course may be a helpful resource for those looking to improve their skills. Finally, don't forget to have fun and let your own unique voice shine through!