Singing lessons in Near North Side, Chicago

Your voice is your instrument, so treat it well before a recording session.

• Rest Up: Get plenty of sleep the night before. A well-rested voice performs best.
• Hydrate Thoroughly: Drink lots of water in the days leading up to your session, and bring a bottle with you. Avoid dehydrating drinks like coffee or alcohol.
• Warm Up Properly: Don't skip your vocal warm-ups. Start gently and gradually build up to your full range. This prepares your vocal cords and prevents strain.
• Eat Lightly: Avoid heavy meals that might make you sluggish. Opt for something light and easily digestible.
• Avoid Dairy and Sugary Foods: These can cause phlegm or coat your throat, affecting vocal clarity.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that won't restrict your breathing or make noise.

Knowing your songs inside and out is crucial for a smooth recording process.

• Know Your Lyrics: Memorise every word perfectly. You don't want to be reading lyrics off a sheet during takes.
• Practice with the Music: Rehearse extensively with the instrumental track. Ensure your timing and pitch are locked in.
• Understand the Song's Emotion: Connect with the story and mood of the song. This will help you deliver a compelling, authentic performance.
• Consider Your Phrasing: Think about how you want to shape each line. Plan your breaths and dynamics.
• Identify Tricky Spots: Know where the challenging parts are and practice them extra. Be ready to give them extra attention in the studio.

The recording studio environment is unique. Knowing what to expect helps you perform under pressure.

• Communicate with the Engineer: Your sound engineer is your partner. Don't hesitate to ask questions or express concerns about your headphone mix or the sound.
• Trust Your Engineer: They are there to make you sound great. Listen to their feedback on takes.
• Hydrate Often: Keep sipping water between takes to keep your vocal cords lubricated.
• Take Breaks: Don't push yourself too hard. Step away from the microphone if you feel tired or frustrated. A fresh perspective helps.
• Listen Critically (But Don't Overthink): Listen to playback to assess your performance, but avoid getting stuck on minor imperfections. You can always do another take.
• Don't Be Afraid of Multiple Takes: It's normal to do several takes to get the best performance. The goal is perfection, not speed.
• Focus on the Performance: Once the technical aspects are set, immerse yourself in the song. Let your emotion guide your voice.