Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #23

 Benita Charles in New York City

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #23

Songwriting: Song Structure
Today, we discussed song structure. I prefer the popular 32-bar structure: A B C A

A= Verse 1 (8 bars)
B= Verse 2 (8 bars)
C= Bride    (8 bars)
A= Chorus vamps to end (*hook) - 8 bars

*The hook is usually the chorus of a song, it's repetitive throughout the song and it's catchy (memorable & favorable)

Other structures:

A B A (no bridge) - only 2 verses and 2 choruses

A B (1 verse) 1 verse & chorus (hook)

Some people talk first then start the song

Another version is to start with the chorus (hook) first and go into the verses

*The sky's the limit as to how you can construct your song.

Tips on song structure:

• Study your favorite songs to see how they are constructed
• Research with songwriting books
• Find a form that works for the message of your song

Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com
Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/
Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com

Live on Periscope:

https://youtu.be/5Y2b_Qh_TAQ


Live on Facebook:
https://youtu.be/MmvDoZsn8ao

Benita Charles at Columbus Circle, NYC

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #22

Benita Charles and Azania Noah at the Tsion Cafe in Harlem

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #22

Today, is a special show because I had a special guest, international recording artist/performer/singing teacher, Azania Noah.  Azania was kind enough to share her songwriting process and the inspiration behind her original music on her CD, Rising!

About Azania Noah:

Originally from Sierra Leone, West Africa, this award-winning, multi-cultural artist was born and raised in the U.S. & in Switzerland. Azania Noah’s captivating voice, powerful energy and lovely charisma make her a phenomenal performer and a joy to see on stage. She has performed over 800 concerts around Europe, the U.S., Africa and in Asia. She is just as comfortable in major music festivals, such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, as she is singing for Presidents and politicians such as the U.K.’s Tony Blair. In Paris, she won first prize in the French T.V. competition “Graines de Star” which was the first French show similar to ‘American Idol’. She also recently featured on the famous TV show “The Voice” in France (TF1 TV) seen by over 8 million viewers internationally. As an avid songwriter as well, Azania’s lyrics are often enriched with uplifting and positive messages and her debut album, Rising, released in 2013, was inspired by the groovy old school soul and funk era, interlaced with jazz and pop. She is currently composing songs for a new album. For more information, visit: http://azanianonah.com.

This week's show was filmed at the Tsion Cafe in Harlem.


A special thanks to Tsion Cafe in Harlem for allowing me to film this week's Singing Tips by Benita Charles Show! I appreciate the hospitality of the owner and staff!

The Tsion Cafe is a spiritual place to nourish the body & soul. Cuisine at the restaurant is Ethiopian, Mediterranean and American.

The Tsion Café is more than a restaurant; it's a cultural hub in Sugar Hill Harlem. They feature international musical artists as well as film screenings, book signings and a weekly poetry night.  Visual artists' exhibits are rotated every 8 weeks.

The Tsion Cafe is truly a gem in the Harlem community!

https://tsioncafe.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tsion-Cafe-Bakery/782185001805336


 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #22

Songwriting: Choose your song topic

Here are things you can write about:

• Your experience
• A topic that moves or inspires you
• A response to another person's song
• Current events
• Something you see on television or the movies
• A lesson from others' experiences
• Whatever you'd like!

Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com
Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/
Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com

Live on Periscope:
https://youtu.be/dYAUNZkx0f4

Live on Facebook:
https://youtu.be/FrrdA5Zhzfk

Singing Tips by Benita Charles - Tip #21

Benita Charles at Brookfield Place in NYC

When I first moved to New York in 1996, I met a man named Chad Pilieri from an indie rock band called "All About Chad." He said something to me that I will always remember. He told me that I should write and record my own songs. Then, he gave me his CD, "Down In Front," released in 1995. At the time, I didn't know much about that aspect of the music business so I didn't do anything with his advice until years later.  Eventually, I released my own CD (Moments In Love: Volume 1) on my label Star Entertainment New York. Looking back I realize his advice was invaluable. I still have his CD to this day.  Sadly, I learned his group disbanded.

All About Chad, the band (indie rock/alternative)

Indie pop quartet All About Chad featured guitarist Asif Chaudhri, singer Ben Reiser, bassist Chad Pilieri, and drummer Jason Schreiber. After the release of the "Chad's Very First Record" single on Jeezus Peezus Records in 1991, the Brooklyn band set out to record their debut full-length. This That & the Other Thing was released in 1989, and was followed by 1991's The Scouting Party. 1992 saw the unveiling of the quirky Jelly Slide EP. They continued in 1993 with the "Chad's Got an Earring" single on It's Only Pop Music Records. Big Pop Records released the band's swan song, Down in Front, in 1995. Recorded and produced by the band, the disc showcased the band's endearing brand of indie pop music. The group called it quits soon after, but not before an impressive appearance on March Records' stellar Pop American Style compilation in 1996 with the catchy "Japanese Couple in Reverse." ~ Stephen Cramer, Rovi

 Moments In Love: Volume 1 by Benita Charles

https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/benita-charles/id200276662

Tip #21: Write Your Own Songs (Your original music)

3 reasons you should write and record your own music:

 1) Your original music is your contribution to the world.

•   It comprises of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences - your gift.

•   It is your message.

2) You have a responsibility as artist. People look up to artists as role models.

•  Your words can inspire, heal and tough the world
•  Your words can also destroy, demean and degrade if you don't have the right intentions

3) You can sell your own music to your loyal fans at your shows and beyond

•   You can now sell your music directly to your fans with out a record label (middle man)
•  You can build your fan base with your music

Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

-- Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com

Singing Tips by Benita Charles - Tip #21 (October 8, 2016)
https://youtu.be/rny6lho9KtA

Singing Tips by Benita Charles - The Recap Show (Your Live Performance)

 Benita Charles Music in NYC

The Recap Show (Your Live Performance)

This show is a review of the tips 11 - 20 where we discussed ways to enhance your live performances. You've built your talent.  Now, it's time to take it to another level by performing in front of an audience.


In this series, I also had my first special guest speaker, Minister Angela Williams.  She appeared on September 10th on the Tip 19 Show (Always have a set list). Her speech, "Prepacked For The Journey," was a divine and motivating message that inspired the audience! I am so grateful for her time and the incredible value she added to my show!!

 Benita Charles with special guest, Minister Angela Williams in NYC

About Minister Angela Williams:

Minister Angela Williams is from Deerfield Beach, FL. By day is a Senior Director Customer Service Operations for a publishing company. In life, she ministers women and children.  She is the president of  the Women's Auxiliary for Florida East Coast Baptist Association. It's the largest association in Florida and the fourth largest in the nation. She is also the founder and director of A Girl and Her Pearls, a girl's ministry.

10 Singing Tips that enhances your Live Performance:

11) Sing in front of an audience

•   Performing in front of an audience will take your talent to the next level.
•   Performing in front of an audience will help you get paid gigs.
•   7 ways to gain live performance experience: family functions, church, open mics, talent shows, artist showcases, self-produced shows and live streaming. 

12) Project your voice when you sing

•  Project your voice when you sing so that your audience can hear your message.
•  Projecting your voice shows your audience you have confidence when you sing. 
•  Proper Posture: Stand up straight and breathe properly and sing from your diaphragm. This will help you sing properly and project your voice when you sing

 13) How To Handle Technical Difficulties and Interruptions

•  Remain calm.
•  Act Professional.  
• Think of creative ways to handle the situation.

14) Singing with Live Musicians vs. Singing with Tracks

Singing with Live Musicians

• Allows for greater flexibility with song arrangements.
• Helps you create your own performance style.
• Helps you become a leader as a live performer.

Singing with Tracks

• Cost effective on smaller gigs.
•  Practice with the tracks so that the performance will go smoothly.
•  Ensure the track is in good working condition before the show.

15) Engage Your Audience

• Be confident in your performance
• Keep your back story to yourself
• Always put your heart and soul in every performance

16) How to stay motivated when the going gets tough

• Remember your "why."
• Take a break
• Get creative with your approach in how you pursue your dream

17) Equipment every singer should own

• Professional Microphone with cord (or cordless mic)
• Portable PA System
• Percussion instruments

18) Performing with a Live Band

• Prepare your songs on your own before you rehearse with the band
• Find your musicians for your show and rehearse as much as possible
•  Perform at your best at the show

19) Always use a Set List

• A set list allows everyone to know which songs are presented and in the order of the show
• A set list helps with the flow of the show
•  A set list should be flexible enough to change depending on the flow of the show 

20) Song Choice: Using your original music and Covers

• Choose songs you enjoy singing
• Choose song that are currently popular
• Always perform your original songs at your shows 

This concludes the tips we will discuss regarding your Live Performance section in the "Show" part of "Show-Business." The next series of tips will focus your original music and recording.

Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

-- Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com


The Recap Show (Your Live Performance Tips) - Part 1

https://youtu.be/rfjxnbHR9Js


The Recap Show (Acknowledgment of Minister Angela Williams, first special guest) - Part 2
 https://youtu.be/bE-5yy806fE

September 10th - Episode 19 with Minister Angela Williams

https://youtu.be/hP9hVtJKbA0?list=PLYd6_mylCVJlXdn1a_rWdcLt-QHYkukcU