Showing posts with label beginners. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beginners. Show all posts

Friday, February 3, 2017

Singing Tips - The Recap Show (Part 2) - Azania Noah

Benita Charles at Brookfield Place in NYC

The Singing Tips Blog - The Recap Show (Part 2) "Honoring our special guest, Azania Noah 

In this episode, we honored our special guest, Azania Noah who appeared on Tip #22 (Song Topics) on October 15, 2017.

Key points from Azania's speech:
  •  Azania started writing poetry before the age of 15. After 15, she began writing songs as a way to express herself and her feelings.
  • Azania's debut album, "Rising" took her some time to write but she wanted to get it right and exactly how she wanted it.  Her song, "Looking Ahead" is a song about how time passes fast and that you can't dwell on the past.  You have to make every day count.   She received positive feedback from her fans.
  •  Azania offered great suggestions to beginner songwriters: take an online songwriting course or buy a songwriting book to learn the craft of songwriting. Once you get the skill, work on releasing your own music.
  • Azania recently founded The Singer Elite Community on Facebook with a membership over 120+ members and it's growing.  It is a community of singers of various levels who network, connect and encourage each other. She also posts her singing/music business tips as well as other resources in the community.  For more information, visit: http://SingerEliteClub.com.

 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://azania.com

A Special Thanks to Azania for her time, knowledge and value she added to Singing Tips with Benita Charles Show!! Best wishes to her and continued success in her music!

Periscope

https://youtu.be/jOc3Hiib3kE

Facebook

https://youtu.be/V-V001gld9U

Sunday, January 22, 2017

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #30

Benita Charles at Brookfield Place in NYC

  Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #30

Release Your Music (Part 1)
The Recording Process and Completing Your Music

*There's a 3 step process to producing your music for release.

1) Pre-Production
  • Practice your song and make sure it's performance ready before you record it in the studio.
  •  Meet with the producer before the session to go over any questions regarding the music and the arrangement.

2) Production
  •  Record your vocals and music and sing from the heart in the vocal booth. 
    • The mic picks up any vocal imperfections and emotions.
  •  Schedule a separate session for mixing of the music. 
    • It takes that long to get the music just right.
  • Listen to the song outside of the studio on your headphones or smaller system to hear exactly what the song sounds like. 
    • For some reason, everything sounds better in the studio.
  • Ensure that you have a good, quality final mix of the song 
    • This is very important for mastering process.
 3) Post-Production
  •  Ensure that you have a great final mix of the song 
    • This includes but not limited to equalization,and audio level compression and limiting.
    • Ensure the music and vocals are evenly leveled throughout the song)
  • Always master your song
    • Make sure you have a good final mix of the song. This is very important for the mastering process.
    • Mastering the song takes the song to another level and gives it the "radio ready" quality to the sound.
    • The master is the source that you will give the manufacturing company (like Discmakers) to make copies of your CD for purchase.
  • Hire a graphic designer to design the CD cover and liner notes
    • You can use a service like fivrr.com to find a good designer at a good price.
  • Submit the design and master to a duplication company (such as Discmakers) for copies of your music
  • Once you do all those things, your music is ready for purchase!
 Bonus tips (repeated for further emphasis):

Make sure your song is performance ready (fully written, well rehearsed and emotionally connected to the song) before you record the final vocals in the studio.
  • Time is money in the studio and you can waste both if you're not prepared.
Always...always...always master your song!! 
  •  If not mastered, the copies of the CD will not sound professional.
  • I stress: make sure your final mix is exactly what you want. If not, it will not be able to be corrected during the mastering process.
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
Periscope:

https://youtu.be/pbr6WjlH4kw

Facebook Live:

https://youtu.be/i0C2xjuOXJA


 Benita Charles at Brookfield Place in NYC

Sunday, December 18, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #27

Benita Charles in New York City
 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #27

Songwriting 101 (Part 5): Protect Your Work (Copyright it!)

Here are the key reasons why you should copyright your work:

1) You will have legal protection against theft and unlawful use of your work if you copyright your work. Should you have to go to court, your copyright is your legal proof that you are the owner of your song.

2) As the copyright owner, you have full use of the song.  You can record it, perform it live and license it for a fee for other to use it. You will receive compensation for all the ways you use your song.

3)The poor man's copyright is to mail a copy of your song to yourself.  However, it won't hold up in court. Only, the legal copyright through the US Library of Congress will the court recognize as your proof of ownership. It's good to do when you're in a pinch. However, it's best to always register your songs through the US Library of Congress to fully protect your songs.

4)Register your songs through the US Library of Congress. To register your songs, visit: http://copyright.gov.  You will use the PA Form (for unpublished songs you write with music and lyrics). You will use for SR Form (for recorded songs with words and music). If you register online, it's cheaper than using the standard mailing process.  Check the website for appropriate fees for both.

Bonus tip: It's best to copyright your songs as you create them.  This way you will have your copyright in the same year you created it. Also, you avoid the risk of your work been stolen.

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 Facebook:

https://youtu.be/rNsPdN9l9R8

Live on Periscope:

https://youtu.be/tsFolHzGLvk



Sunday, December 11, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #26

Benita Charles in New York City
 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #26

Songwriting 101 (Part 4): How to Conquer Writer's Block

Here are the 3 key ways to conquer writer's block:

1) Step away from the song and do something else
-Sometimes it helps to put the song down and do something else.  When you come back to the song, you'll have a fresh perspective.
-Record the song first before you put it away. This way, when you come back to it, you'll hear what you worked on and it will give you new ideas for the song.

2) Keep writing until you can't write any more.
-When you return to the song again from your break, keep writing. Even if you don't like what you write, write it anyway.  You can always edit it later.  The most important thing is to write it out and get it out of your head.  This is called, free form writing.
-There's a wealth of information from your free form writing, perhaps another song.

3) Establish a writing schedule
-It's helpful if you have a set day and time for your writing. Set aside a certain block of time where you will focus and concentrate on your song. 
-Remove distractions and find a comfortable space of your choice where you can write your songs.

Finally, study your favorite hit songs. What works for the song? What's the most memorable? Why do you like it? Take what you like and kind your own style.  Good luck with your songwriting and your hit 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


Benita Charles live on Periscope

https://youtu.be/rLgELOxZQwM

Benita Charles live on FB Live

https://youtu.be/s-h3HaTlL9E




Saturday, November 19, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #25

Benita Charles in New York City

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #25

Songwriting (101) - (Part 3): Elements of a Hit Song

Here are the key elements of a hit song:
1) Song Title
- A catchy song time or a simple song title
examples:
Hello by Adele and Hello by Lionel Richie (simple title)
Take This Job and Shove It (intriguing)
Cats In A Cradle (Artistic)

2) Lyrics (words)
- The right lyrics can touch your heart and bring back memories.
- The right topic can strike a chord with your audience.
- The way the words are arranged can make a huge difference. A good rhyming scheme can make a huge difference.

3) Music (melody and harmony)
- The right music can touch your emotions.
- A beautiful melody can be momerable.
- A musical riff can be memorable.
- Examples: Sweet Caroline (memorable musical riff) and Uptown Funk (horn arrangement).

4) Song Arrangement
- The right arrangement can take a song in a fresh direction.
- The late, great Luther Vandross was a master at taking a cover song and making it his own with his unique song arrangements.
- Poker Face by Lady Gaga was revamped broadway style via the hit TV show, Glee.

5) Timing/Luck (magic)
-The right time a song comes out is just as important as the song itself.
-Sometimes if it's too radical for the times, people may not get it and the song won't do very well. Years later, the same type of songs will do very well. This is something out of your control.  If you're lucky enough to have a hit song, consider yourself blessed (even if it's a one hit wonder).

Here's a formula to keep in mind when writing your hit song from the book, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Songwriting by Joel Hirschhorn.

H - Hook

I - Idea

T - Title


Finally, study your favorite hit songs. What works for the song? What's the most memorable? Why do you like it? Take what you like and kind your own style.  Good luck with your songwriting and your hit 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/qtZ4gZhfnr0


Live on Facebook:

https://youtu.be/5z47AL-MXs0






Saturday, November 5, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #24


 Benita Charles in New York City

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #24

Songwriting 101 (Part 2): Music & Lyrics

Today, we discussed music and lyrics - the heart of the song. I shared my songwriting process. 

1) What's the most important part of the song - music or lyrics? Both! Lyrics can bring back memories and music touches your emotions. Together, it's magic!

2) My songwriting process: When I'm inspired to write, sometimes I get the music & melody first then I write the lyrics.  There are also times when I get both. Most of the times, I get the chorus (hook) first and then I build the song around the hook.

Today, I shared a story that has inspired my present song I'm working on now, titled "No - No More!".  I had an experience where someone was very rude and intrusive with me but the worst part was I allowed it and didn't check that person.  Afterwards, I was so angry but mostly with myself because I was caught off guard and did not handle it properly. I have since forgiven myself but I'm writing a great song out of the experience!

3) Keep your lyrical idea in the same direction and make sure the music supports it.

The week's book references:

"Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Songwriting But Didn't Know Who To Ask" by Cliffie Stone

"Everything You'd Better Know About the Record Industry" By Kashif 


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/QBcT8Vd2r_E

Live on Facebook:
https://youtu.be/7ushec9154s






Saturday, October 29, 2016

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



Sunday, September 25, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #20 (Part 2)

Benita Charles at South Street Seaport (NYC)

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #20 (Part 2)

Song Choice: Originals vs. Covers (Part 2)

Continuing our discussion about selecting songs for your live shows, here are 5 key reasons why you should include original songs in your show:

1) Performing your original music at your shows introduces your music to the world.

2) It allows you to work out the song before you record it. When you go in the studio, you'll have a point of reference to build on.

3) It adds variety to your show. It's good to mix cover songs and original songs in your show. The audience can identify with the music they know and they'll be more receptive to listening to your original music.

4) It's also great practice as you transition from being a live performance artist to a recording artist. As a major recording artist, you will be performing mostly original music.

5) It connects the audience to your music.  When you sell your CDs at your shows, the audience will be more familiar with your music if they hear it first at your show.

Please note: The title of this top is misleading.  You don't have to pick originals over covers or vise versa. You're show should mix both covers and originals for a great experience!Tip #20 (Part 2)

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/FlxlR32NrjQ

Live on Facebook:

https://youtu.be/QPdPPTFUFYA

Mini tour at the South Street Seaport:

Periscope:

https://youtu.be/EEpOrKcXlsk


Facebook Live:

https://youtu.be/yUUYBJoY07Y



Saturday, September 17, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #20


 Benita Charles at Bryant Park in NYC

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #20

Choose Your Songs Wisely

When choosing songs for your show, consider the following:


1) Choose songs you like.  It's the fastest way to learn songs and make them your own because you enjoy them.

2) Select songs that are inspiring and moving to the audience. 

3) It's good to include current popular songs. The audience enjoy hearing songs they know.

4) Songs from your favorite artists are great to add to your set.  You can mention why you like the audience and sing a tribute to that audience.

5) It's also good to add the standard songs of your genre of music (your musical style). These are popular songs that everyone knows.

6) Research other cover bands online to find popular/standard music to add to your set list.

7) If you have original material, you should add those songs as well.  It gives a nice mix to the set.

Also, for me I get inspired when I see other singers perform a song I like.  Sometimes, it's a song I didn't think about but I connect with it when I hear it.

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/HBG6oD8MPe0

Live on Facebook:
https://youtu.be/v7yXT0c_3Oc



Saturday, September 10, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #19


 Benita Charles and Minister Angela Williams

 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #19

Always use a Set List


1) A set list allows everyone to know which songs are presented and in the order of the show.
2) A set list helps with the flow of the show.

3)  When selecting the order of the show, think about the songs in terms of music, tempo and where they are happening during the evening. (For example, you may want to start with something easy-breazy in the beginning and work your way to something more danceable. Or, you could group the songs by genre if it's a corporate or club gig and you have different genres on your list.)

Most importantly, a well, thought out set list works best for the show.

4) Be flexible in your set list because the show can change due to the audience's engagement. If set is high energy and the audience is dancing, you may want to change the song if the next song on your list is slow.

In this instance you have to play it by ear and decide what will work best for the flow of the show.

Today, we was honored to have a special guest, Minister Angela Williams for Deerfield Beach, FL give words of encouragement to all.

Her message "Prepacked for the Journey" was so powerful and resonated with the audience! A special thank you to her for sharing her words of wisdom to the show today.

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.


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/lmeQxcpz5BQ

Live on Facebook:

https://youtu.be/hP9hVtJKbA0





Sunday, September 4, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #18

Benita Charles Music at Coney Island (Brooklyn, NY)

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #18

Performing with a Live Band

Here are a few key points to working with a live band:

 
1)  Select your songs and learn them on your own before you rehearse with the band.
    A) The more prepared you are, the more efficient your rehearsal will be.

2)  Find your musicians for your show.
    A) Personal referrals are the best way to find musicians.
    B) There are online sites that are good for finding musicians such as Bandmix and Craigslist

3) Rehearse with the band as much as needed.
   A) The more you can work on the music with the band, the better you will sound at the show.
  
4) Perform at your best at the show.
   A) Always look your best
   B) Sound your best (you will since you prepared with your band!)
   C) Engage with your audience.
   D) Sell your protect product.

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/7ueTg6TiaCc

Live on Facebook:
https://youtu.be/p6vO_e3KLTQ





Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #17


Benita Charles Music at High Line Park (NYC)

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #17 

Equipment every singer should own

Here are a few vital items that every singer should have for their live performances:

1)  Professional Microphone with cord (or cordless mic)
    A) I recommend Shure mics. They are one of the most popular brands for vocal mics.
    B) You may want to invest in a mic stand. Most venues don't have them.

2)  Portable PA System
   A) I use the Roland "Cube." This system is excellent for small - medium sized rooms.
   B) There are other systems you can research online.

3) Video Camera
   A) It's good to record your performances to see how you can improve
   B) You can post snippets of your performances on Youtube for promotion
   C) You can live stream your performances for maximum exposure

4) Audio Recorder
   A) You can put snippets of your show on Soundcloud
   B) You can sell your live performances and your shows

5) Percussion instruments
   A) It's good to have percussion instruments to add to the music when you're not singing.
   B) It allows you to further bond with the band.

6) iKlip for iPad
   A) This eliminates the need for you to carry a bulky lyric book.
   B) This allows you to peak at your lyric using your iPad without distracting from your performance.


7) Lyric Apps
   A) It's best to download your songs on your iPad before the show.
   B) I recommend the app "Set List."  It allows you to download lyrics from the internet and save them in different folders thus creating your "set lists."
   C) Another good lyric site app to download is "Lyric Finder"
   Bonus tip: It's best to download your lyrics on your iPad or iPhone and not rely on getting the lyrics from the internet at the gig.

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: @bcmsings

Youtube videos:

Benita Charles live on Periscope:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8EqY69ilVw

Benita Charles live on Facebook:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoYUpTPAsQc

Highlight from the High Line Park

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-l7IUnI-Q4


The High Line Park (NYC)


Sunday, August 21, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #16

NY-Vocalist, Benita Charles shares singing tips for beginner singers.


Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - #16


Here are 3 ways to stay motivated when the going gets tough: 

I. Remember your "why."
    1) What is the reason you became an artist? Know why you're pursuing a music career.

    2) Find a reason greater than yourself to share your music to the world.

    3) Write down your reason and refer to it often.

II.  Take a break:

    1) Sometimes, it help to get away for the hustle and daily grind of the work it takes to be an artist.

    2) Get it touch with nature. Go to a park or a garden and let nature refresh your soul.

    3) Return to your art after a break and you will have a fresh perspective.

 III. Get creative with your approach:

    1) Experiment with different ways to pursue your art. You can look at ways the major artists do and put your own twist on things.

    2) Create your own opportunites. Start your own show. Start your own podcast.

    3) Find your unique voice and brand yourself in all your marketing and promotions to set yourself apart from the pact.

 I hope this is helpful. Your feedback is welcome. Best wishes as you take your talent to the next level!



http://benitcharles.com






Here's the Youtube videos:




Live on Periscope: https://youtu.be/D2-o67T_FY0


Live on Facebook: https://youtu.be/ThY82Dq2fhk

Monday, August 15, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #15

Benita Charles Music at Central Park (NYC) 
Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #15:

Engage Your Audience

There's nothing like the feeling of the love from the audience during your performance. That's when you know you're fully engaged. When you give your all, the audience returns the love back to you. It's one of the most incredible feelings you will have during your performances.

Here are 3 steps to help with audience engagement:

1) Be confident in your performance
   A) Know and connect with your song you are performing. You will be less nervous if you know what you're doing and how you will perform the song.
   B) Know your message. What are you trying to convey to the audience.

2) Keep your back story to yourself
   A) You don't have to tell the audience every detail that happens to you off stage. Keep the drama to yourself.
   B) Don't highlight your mistakes. Oftentimes, mistakes go unnoticed, especially if you don't point them out.

3) Always put your heart and soul in every performance
   A) The more love you give to the audience during your performance, the more love you will get back. It's called being in the zone!
   B) Whether there's one person in the audience or 1,000 people, always give 100%. You never know who's listening.

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

Youtube video: https://youtu.be/ScwuknEFm4k



Saturday, August 6, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #14:

  Benita Charles Music at Marcus Garvey Park (Harlem)

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #14:
Singing with Live Musicians vs. Singing with Tracks


Most live venues would rather singers perform with live musicians. One venue owner told me it was more professional.  There are some gigs where tracks are permitted. Always check with the venue to confirm with the preference of the person who booked you.

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.

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

Youtube video:

https://youtu.be/ZZKV0Vaysys


Saturday, July 30, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #13


 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music


 Singing Tip #13: How To Handle Technical Difficulties and Interruptions

*Remain calm.
Things sometimes happen during a performance. It could be a technical problem with the equipment or some other problem beyond your control. It's best to keep your cool and assess the situation.

* Act Professional.
It's best to be courteous to the technical staff that are working on the problem. They are doing the best they can. Acting rude doesn't help the situation.

* Think of creative ways to handle the situation.
Work the crowd during the interim. Depending on what the problem is, you can make it a part of the show.

I hope these tips are helpful. 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


Youtube video: https://youtu.be/kz47u6X23_s

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #12

Benita Charles Music at Morningside Park (upper Manhattan)

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #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



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 


Youtube video:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1Whpqf5B-A&list=PLYd6_mylCVJlXdn1a_rWdcLt-QHYkukcU&index=20

Sunday, June 26, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - #9


Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #9: Find a certified voice teacher.

  •     A voice teacher can teach you the proper way to sing to protect your voice.
  •     A voice teacher can help you expand your range.
  •     A voice teacher can help you sound more polished and professional on your recordings and live performances.

How to find a voice teacher:

  • One of the best ways to find a voice teacher is through referrals. It's good to hear from someone who has an experience with that teacher. 

  • Research the local music schools in your area

  • Check the teacher's credentials
  •  When you meet with the potential teacher, make sure there's a good rapport. This is a person you a entrusting your precious voice to. You have to trust that this person.

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


Youtube video: https://youtu.be/PRC_pyNnqA8



Saturday, June 18, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music- Tip #8



Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #8: Write your own songs (Songwriting).

  •     Writing your own songs helps you develop as an artist and to find your voice (your unique message).
  •     Writing your own songs helps you become a better performer. You can bring your own style to the cover songs you perform.
  •     You can have a separate career and income as a professional songwriter. It's worth the effort just for that reason alone.

You have a special message through your music. Write songs and find your voice!

-- Benita Charles Music

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

http://benitacharles.com


Youtube video: https://youtu.be/GukuqmiNsr8?list=PLYd6_mylCVJlXdn1a_rWdcLt-QHYkukcU