Learning to sing like W.A.S.P involves mastering some of the most unique and challenging techniques in heavy metal history. One can learn techniques of heavy-metal singing that come from scratch, but it's a vast and complex art that can involve anything from animal-like growling to high screams and the pure tone of a sweet ballad. Techniques can be learned through hard work, discipline, and a never-quitting attitude. However, before we proceed and dive deeper into these complex techniques, let's understand more about the iconic band.

W.A.S.P is an American Heavy Metal band that was started by singer-songwriter Blackie Lawless in 1982. The band has produced ten studio albums, a compilation album, and several singles. W.A.S.P gained fame in the 1980s for their staging traditions, outrageous costumes, and lyrics, which were often seen as controversial. Some of the band's most popular songs include “I Wanna Be Somebody,” “Wild Child,” “The Headless Children,” “L.O.V.E. Machine,” and “Animal (F*** Like a Beast).” One can learn from W.A.S.P the art of projecting excellent vocal control techniques used by professional vocalists throughout the Heavy Metal genre. Singing like W.A.S.P requires one to get comfortable with singing in high registers. So this guide on becoming a Heavy Metal singer has divided the singer’s vocal techniques into two categories: High-pitched vocals and low growls.

High-Pitched vocals:

The high-pitched vocals require the singer to have a strong and excellent vocal range, allowing them to hit high notes without coming off as shrill. That’s where the use of falsetto is required. Falsetto is a technique that enables one to sing higher notes than their vocal range. Now, how does one produce this technique? To use falsetto, you must relax the muscles in your throat and above the soft palate. This will allow high notes to be sung without straining or singing too tensely.

To get started, try singing along to W.A.S.P’s “L.O.V.E. Machine” in falsetto. This way, you can practice hitting high notes and holding them for an extended period.

Low Growls

When it comes to Heavy Metal singing, low growls require a lot of power behind the voice. It also requires learning the proper breathing techniques to ensure that your vocal cords do not become damaged while executing this technique. To begin with, start with Blackie Lawless’s signature song, “Blind in Texas ” it contains a few growls throughout.

It is vital to note that low growling requires one to stay hydrated since the technique involves using the guttural technique through water and keeping the throat moist while practicing or performing. This way, you can avoid straining your vocal cords or causing permanent damage.

Technique and posture

While it may seem like singing with your throat is the most important thing, the truth is that proper posture and body technique can make a significant difference in your singing efforts. That's where understanding proper breathing comes into play. Correct breathing involves diaphragmatic use, which requires one to inhale using their diaphragm, filling the air sacs at the base of their lungs before exhaling slowly with minimal tension.

Conclusion

There you have it, the art of learning to sing like W.A.S.P boils down to excellent vocal control through the use of high vocal ranges and low growls. Additionally, proper hydration, breathing, technique, and posture, and some consistent practice using tools such as Singing Carrots pitch training and educational singing course can enable you to become a Heavy Metal Singer like W.A.S.P.