Singing Guide: The Legend of New York
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Frank Sinatra, known as "The Voice" and "The Sultan of Swoon," was one of the most iconic singers of the twentieth century. His signature crooning style combined with his unique phrasing and impeccable timing made him a beloved figure across generations.
If you want to learn how to sing like Frank Sinatra, it's essential to understand the elements of his vocal technique that set him apart. Sinatra's style involved precise phrasing, smooth legato, and a distinct sense of swing. He had a natural vibrato that was used sparingly and emphasized his interpretation of the music's lyrics.
Sinatra's vocal range was wide, spanning over 2 octaves, from low bass notes to high tenor notes. His voice was characterized by a warm, rich tone, sometimes described as "honeyed."
If you want to start singing like Sinatra, you first need to work on your breathing, posture, and support techniques, which are fundamental aspects of healthy singing. The Singing Carrots' Vocal Range Test, an essential tool for every singer, can help you determine your vocal range and figure out which famous singers share your range.
Once you have laid the foundation for your singing, including breath support and body alignment, it's time to work on your phrasing and legato. The Singing Carrots' Pitch Training has an interactive game that can help you practice note recognition and training your ear.
To work on your sense of swing, you can use the Singing Carrots' SongSearch tool, which allows you to find songs matching your vocal range, difficulty, and genre preference. You can use the tool to discover Sinatra's famous swing-era songs, such as "I've Got You Under My Skin" and "Fly Me to the Moon."
The Singing Carrots' singing course is an excellent resource for learning singing theory and practical tips. You can learn breathing techniques, pitch control, and phrasing while practicing with a variety of exercises like the Farinelli Breathing exercise, Chest Voice Explained, and Sustain Vocal.
It's clear that Frank Sinatra's vocal style is unique to him, but with the right training and tools, you can work on developing your own voice and creating an interpretation of his classic songs.
By incorporating the elements of phrasing, legato, and swing into your singing, you can begin to sing like Sinatra, while always staying authentic to your own vocal style. Remember to take care of your vocal health, and enjoy the journey!