Singing Guide: The Replacements
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
If you're a fan of punk rock, garage rock, and alternative rock, then you've probably heard of The Replacements. Founded in Minneapolis in 1979, they quickly gained a reputation as one of the most influential bands in this genre. Frontman Paul Westerberg, who wrote most of the band's songs, has a raw and distinctive vocal style that sets him apart from other singers.
If you want to learn how to sing like Paul Westerberg, here are some practical tips and Singing Carrots resources to help you on your way:
- Embrace imperfections: Westerberg's raw and unpolished vocal style is one of the hallmarks of The Replacements' sound. Don't worry too much about hitting every note perfectly or having a flawless tone. Instead, focus on expressing yourself and conveying the emotion of the song.
- Practice breath control: Despite his seemingly lackadaisical approach to singing, Westerberg actually has excellent breath control. Practice breathing exercises, such as those found in Singing Carrots' "Breath Support" article, to help you sustain notes and control your phrasing.
- Experiment with vocal register: Westerberg frequently uses a mix of chest voice and falsetto to create a unique sound. Practice your voice registers as described in the "Voice Registers & Vocal Break" article.
- Sing with emotion: One of the things that sets Westerberg apart from many other singers is his ability to convey a wide range of emotions in his voice. Use your own experiences to connect with the lyrics of the song and try to convey those emotions in your voice.
- Look for songs that showcase your vocal strengths: Consider the vocal range test offered by Singing Carrots to find songs that fit your range and style. For The Replacements in particular, songs like "Bastards of Young," "Unsatisfied," and "Alex Chilton" are known for their powerful vocals.
By following these tips and utilizing Singing Carrots' resources, you'll be on your way to singing like The Replacements' Paul Westerberg in no time.