Singing Guide: Van Morrison
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Learn to Sing Like Van Morrison with Singing Carrots
Van Morrison is one of the most influential and idiosyncratic vocalists of the 20th and 21st centuries. A Northern Irish singer-songwriter, Morrison's music has been compared to many greats from the worlds of rock, R&B, and soul, but his unique and inimitable style defies easy categorization.
To learn to sing like Van Morrison, you must first recognize the defining characteristics of his vocal technique. Morrison's voice is notable not only for its distinctively scratchy, soulful quality but also for his unique approach to phrasing. His iconic singing style often involves abrupt shifts in dynamics and timing, as well as unconventional use of repetition and harmony.
One of the best ways to get a sense of Morrison's vocal style is to study his iconic songs. Classics like "Moondance," "Brown Eyed Girl," and "Into the Mystic" offer masterclasses in the art of rock and soul singing.
To truly master Morrison's signature sound, however, you will need to put in some serious practice and skill-building. Vocal exercises focusing on breath support and control, as well as exercises designed to improve pitch, range, and tone, are an excellent place to start.
Singing Carrots offers a range of resources that can help singers of all abilities hone their skills and develop their unique style. Our vocal range test allows you to determine your vocal range and compare it to famous singers, while our pitch accuracy test will help you to assess your pitch accuracy and pinpoint areas in need of improvement.
For more advanced singers, our Pitch Training interactive game offers a range of exercises and drills designed to improve pitch, range, agility, and more. Singers can also explore the Vocal Pitch Monitor tool, which allows you to see your sung notes on a virtual piano.
To improve breath support and control, singers can explore Singing Carrots' articles on breathing basics and breath support as well as Farinelli Breathing video. And to develop phrasing, articulation, and other important vocal techniques, Singing Carrots resources on articulation, resonance, and voice registers would be helpful.
By studying Morrison's technique and putting in the time and effort required to develop your own vocal style, you can learn to sing with the soulful power and distinctive style of one of the greats of rock, R&B, and soul.