Singing like Rihanna: Learn from an Icon

Learning to sing like Rihanna can be a fun and challenging experience, as she is renowned for her wide vocal range, smooth transitions, and unique vocal technique. Whether you want to emulate her emotional ballads or her high-energy pop tracks, there are specific techniques to focus on. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps on how to learn singing like Rihanna.

Voice Type and Range

Before we start singing like Rihanna, it’s important to understand her voice type and range. She is a soprano singer with a wide vocal range, spanning from low Bb2 to high Eb7. Her most famous songs such as “Umbrella” and “Diamonds” show off her exceptional range, and it’s recommended you practice these songs as part of your vocal training.

Vocal Technique

Rihanna has a unique vocal technique that makes her songs distinct. Here are a few techniques to focus on while trying to sing like her:

• Breath Control - Breath control is an essential skill for any singer, and Rihanna is no exception. The key to her successful breath control is in her diaphragm. It’s recommended you try the Farinelli Breathing exercise found in the skills-related videos section.
• Voice Registers - Rihanna is known for her ability to transition smoothly between voice registers which is why focusing on your vocal registers is the key to mastering her vocal technique. You should practice the Singing Comfort Zone exercise to practice this skill.
• Twang Technique - Twang technique is commonly used in pop music and Rihanna uses it to add power and urgency to her songs. The How to Twang Exercise video in the skills-related videos section will help you master this technique.
• Vibrato and Resonance - Rihanna’s music often features vibrato to add flavor to her notes. The Beggars Bounce video in the skills-related videos section will help you develop this technique. Resonance is also another key part of the vibrato techniques that gives a fuller sound to the voice. To learn about resonance, read our article, Resonance in singing.
• Song Choice - Choosing the right song is crucial to mastering the vocal technique of Rihanna. Consider the genre, the range and the emotions invoked in the song. “Stay” and “Love on the Brain” are great examples of popular songs displaying Rihanna’s technique. Use the Song Search tool to look for a song that suits your range and preference.
• Singing Course - For more in-depth learning, consider enrolling in the Singing Carrots educational online singing course. This comprehensive course will teach you the basics of singing while also providing insight into advanced techniques used by experienced singers.

Practical Advice

• Warm up thoroughly before singing. You can use the 3 Minute Warm Up video found in the skills-related videos section to help you do so.
• Follow the correct breathing techniques and maintain proper posture, as explained in the articles “Breathing basics”, “Breath support”, and “How posture affects your singing”.
• Learn the lyrics and the melody of the song, and then practice the specific techniques necessary to sing it.
• Practice regularly and record yourself to analyze your voice and spot areas that require improvement. To analyze your voice, read our article “How to analyze your voice”.
• Avoid singing out of pitch by using the Pitch Accuracy Test found on our platform.

Conclusion

Learning to sing like Rihanna requires effort, focus, and practice. However, by following proper techniques discussed above along, listening closely to her music, and using our recommended Singing Carrots resources, you can improve your singing skill and develop a unique vocal style of your own. Try these techniques and enjoy the challenge of perfecting your singing like an icon.