Singing Guide: The Martins
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
If you aspire to sing like The Martins, there are a few things you should keep in mind. The group helped to define the sound of modern Southern Gospel music, and their music can be described as "family harmony" with a touch of Bluegrass and Americana.
Vocal Technique
To emulate the unique vocal techniques of The Martins, study their three-part harmony closely. They often sing in unison, with a female voice harmonizing above, and a male voice harmonizing below. Their harmonies are usually stacked in a more vertical fashion than the typical parallel harmonies of four-part harmony found in barbershop quartet music. This requires a stronger ear and vocal control to blend seamlessly. Focus on forming tight harmonies with other singers and practicing sing-and-repeat exercises.
The Martins’ songs are famous for their strong and sustained high notes, which showcase their ability to control breath and pitch. To achieve a similar technique, you must work on your breath support through exercises such as Farinelli Breathing or Breath Support, which can help you control the volume and resistance of your breath while singing.
For help with improving your range, try using the Vocal range test available on Singing Carrots. This tool will enable you to establish your vocal range and hardness. Inside the test, there are samples of various styles and singers which you can listen to for reference purposes.
You can also improve your technique by practicing regularly as this will help you to develop focus, consistency, and control. You will become comfortable with the range of emotions that come with singing, from emotion to technique.
Songs Showcasing Their Sound
The Martins are known for their inspiring and uplifting music. Their songs usually contain scripture-based lyrics and upbeat rhythms that make it difficult not to join in the singing. Here are a few songs that showcase their unique vocal technique:
- The Promise - This ballad showcases the Martins' ability to blend their voices and harmonize perfectly with each other. There are also some great examples of long, controlled notes that are perfectly balanced with the other vocal parts.
- Count Your Blessings - This song is a great example of the Martins' ability to sing as a family and harmonize seamlessly. Even if you're singing solo, try to emulate how they create a flowing and connected sound.
Practical Advice and Relevant Resources
- How to analyze your voice - To improve your singing, you must first understand your voice. Learn how to analyze your vocal features, such as tone, range, and pitch.
- Contemporary vocal techniques: Heavy modal, Twang, Belting - The Martins often mix Bluegrass, Americana, and Southern Gospel into their sound, making it more contemporary. Learn about some contemporary vocal techniques that could make your singing sound more modern and more relevant.
- Vocal Pitch Monitor - This tool allows you to see and hear your sung notes on a virtual piano, making it possible to adjust your pitch accuracy.
- Pitch Training - Educational Singing Game - This tool helps you to improve your pitch accuracy while making it fun and interactive.
- Educational singing course - If you want to learn the fundamentals of singing or improve your existing skills, consider taking Singing Carrot's singing course.
Overall, to learn to sing like The Martins, keep practicing and focusing on vocal control. Listen and learn from their unique harmony arrangements, and use Singing Carrots' tools and resources to enhance your skills.