Singing Guide: The Jam

Singing Guide: The Jam

Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources

Are you a beginner or advanced singer?

The Jam are a British punk rock and mod revival band from the late 1970s and early 80s. Formed in Woking in 1972, the band consisted of Paul Weller on guitar and vocals, Bruce Foxton on bass, and Rick Buckler on drums.

The distinctive sound of The Jam was a result of the band's combination of punk rock energy with a strong emphasis on melody and songwriting. With Weller's songwriting at the forefront, The Jam's sound evolved over the course of their career, incorporating elements of funk, soul, and R&B.

To learn how to sing like Paul Weller and capture The Jam's unique sound, there are a few key techniques to focus on.

  • Firstly, Weller's vocal style is characterized by its raw energy and intensity. To achieve this sound, it is important to focus on breath control and diaphragmatic support. Singing exercises such as the Farinelli Breathing Exercise can help to strengthen your breath control and support.
  • In addition to breath control, Weller's vocal style is also marked by a strong emphasis on diction and articulation. To improve your own diction and articulation, try practicing exercises such as the Finger Bite Exercise.
  • When it comes to capturing The Jam's distinctive sound, it is also important to pay attention to Weller's use of vocal range and dynamics. Songs like "Town Called Malice" and "That's Entertainment" showcase Weller's ability to move effortlessly from soft, plaintive verses to explosive, anthemic choruses. To develop your own range and dynamics, try using Singing Carrots' Vocal Range Test and Pitch Training resources.
  • Finally, to fully capture the spirit of The Jam, it is important to pay attention to the band's punk rock roots. This means singing with an attitude and a sense of rebellion, while also maintaining a strong connection to melody and songwriting. To hone your punk rock singing skills, check out Singing Carrots' resources on vocal distortion and growling.

In conclusion, to learn how to sing like Paul Weller and capture The Jam's unique sound, it is important to focus on breath control, diaphragmatic support, diction and articulation, range and dynamics, and a punk rock attitude. With Singing Carrots' range of educational resources and exercises, you can build these skills and develop your own authentic style as a singer.

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