Karaoke Machine Reviews
Holland Forth asked: Even if you consider yourself to be an expert shopper, it’s not always easy to get the best karaoke machine for your home. There are many products out there from a variety of manufacturers that give you a whole lot of options. In a way, it’s a good thing that there are so many suitable products on the market. But it also often leaves the common consumer confused as to which karaoke machine they should buy.In general, the main feature you want to get is quality sound and performance. Other secondary things to look for may include the appearance of the machine itself, portability, and the ease of setup. If you are more than a karaoke rookie then you might want some fancier features to play around with such as echo effects, sound balancing, and video and audio recording. And don’t forget about making sure that you get a good warranty with your product so that you can we turn it or have it repaired if necessary.To make things a little bit easier here are some brief karaoke machine reviews that might come in handy:Emerson Radio Barbie – this is one of the best kids karaoke machines [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Echo Effects, Kids Karaoke Machines, Little Bit
Rip-Offs in the Music Business
Dwayne Utsey asked: The music business can be a dangerous place for the unprepared artist. There are some shady characters promising great things and making allot of money from misinformed musicians. This article will give you some pointers on what to watch out for and the operation of these bogus deals.The Golden RuleIf you remember anything from this article remember this: Never sign any contracts without first having a lawyer look it over. Using this tip alone can save you years of frustration avoiding bogus deals. Get a lawyer (preferably an entertainment lawyer) to look at the contract. Ask him or her if it is a good or bad deal. Ask the lawyer to add a stipulation clause. For example: said booking agent must get your band $1,000 worth of gigs per month or the contract is null and void. This will protect you if whoever you are dealing with doesn’t keep up their end of the bargain.Compilation AlbumsThese can be a great deal, however, I would be careful on how much the company is asking to be included on their album. I personally would not pay any more then about $250 to be included on these albums. If you [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Booking Agent, Golden Rule, Shady Characters
Singing With Perfect Pitch – Tips For Pitch Perfect Vocals
Paul Gian asked: Perfect pitch is the ability to recognize and reproduce exact pitches without the use of a reference tone. For singers, this means being able to sing in tune in both solo and accompanied situations. Conversely, singers who lack a strong command of pitch are likely to be off-pitch at any given time. In other words, perfect pitch is a necessity for singers who want to have that polished, pleasing sound.While it appears that a small number of people are born with this ability, most have to acquire it through training. Virtually all professional musicians have put in a substantial amount of practice in order to get a handle on pitch, so clearly it can have a multitude of benefits.The key to attaining perfect pitch is ear training. By training the ear to understand and accurately identify specific pitches and intervals, musicians gain the ability to respond to and reproduce these pitches in any imaginable context. Therefore, a singer who has had ear training can be totally confident of being able to perform on-pitch at all times.Ear training for singers can involve a number of simple pitching exercises. For example, you can play a note on a guitar [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Pitches, Second Nature, Singing Tips
The Music Business Is Not Dead
Shawn Horton asked: The music business is not dead, but it is changing profoundly. The music business is built on the ‘buddy system’. Everyone is attached to everyone else in this industry. The music business is one of the few businesses that offers a shot at the brass ring to everyone and anyone who enters. A 9 year old singer with no previous experience is offered the exact same shot at success that is offered to a Julliard honors grad with 30 years of experience.The music business is now a media business – the content you publish and the community you build creates new business opportunities and connections. Providing value to your community and fans without expecting anything back is the way to grow your brand. The music business is really open to anyone who meets the requirements of ability and originality. The music business is full of self starters – people who create their own opportunities and find their way into the music business through a number of different routes.Musicians are finding ways to do it right. By offering fans incentives (anything from work-in-progress demos to personal performances), fan funding becomes less about asking for a handout from your [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Originality, Personal Performances, Revenue Generation
You Really Can Learn to Sing
Thomas Haney asked: Most of us have probably heard a beautiful song on the radio or at a live performance and wished that we too could sing with such a pleasing voice. Perhaps you were inspired at the moment to take singing lessons to learn how to sing, but then shelved the thought because you felt you did not truly have the potential to sing well.But if you have a genuine desire to learn to sing, don’t give up, and never think that you’re a hopeless case! Contrary to what many people say, singing is not something you’re born with– it’s something that must be developed, and something that anyone can learn.Sure, some people are born with innately rich natural talent, but then again, not everyone aspires to be a professional Grammy-winning pop star! Normal, everyday people can learn to develop a pleasing and impressive singing voice with the proper training. Usually that’s all most of us want–to not have to be afraid that we’ll be asked to perform a karaoke song at a party, or to just be able to sing along with our favorite songs on the radio without straining.Without question, the very best way to learn to [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Genuine Desire, Hopeless Case, Pleasing Voice
Music Business Plan – The 7 Step Music Success Plan!
Chris Rockett asked: If you’re serious about your music you need to think of it like a proper business and create a music business plan that lays out your plan and goals so that you can stay on target.The simple guide below will help you rapidly create a music business plan that you can revisit and revise as you you develop in the music industry.1. Summary – this is an overview description of your music business and what you are trying to achieve. You might include details of the marketing methods you are going to use and the gap your are going to fill.2. Goals – any business plan should have a clear set of goals that are achievable yet challenging. These will change over time as you reach further and further but will always keep you on track.3. Targets – now that you have a clear set of goals for your music business plan you need to set deadlines and targets to make sure that you are always moving forward.“A goal without a plan is just a wish” Super cheesy I know:-)4. Market – before you ever start promoting your music, you need to know what fans you are [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Marketing Methods, Music Business, Promoting Your Music
The New Formula for Success in the Music Business
Peter Cross asked: Hardly anybody in the music business understands that the old formula of how to successfully promote a new act is obsolete. The record companies are all aware that there is a big problem but they have no idea what the solution is. What they do understand is that they are unable to recoup their investment in studio time with a good producer, the cost of a good video, the advertising budget, and the cost of the first promotional road tour from the profits on a first hit CD. An act must be capable of repeating and sustaining their initial success in the studio in order for a record company to make a profit because the necessary investment has increased dramatically. Ever since the mid 1990′s the record companies have become painfully aware that there are no acts containing songwriters who can keep on writing more hit songs. All the new acts since the mid 1990′s have one, two, maybe three good songs at the most, and any person who’s purchased a CD since that time will testify to that.The record companies also know that MP3 downloading on the internet is a factor that has negatively affected their [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Acts, Business Music, Songwriters
Easy Electric Guitar Songs For Beginner Guitarists
Tom Fontana asked: Playing popular songs on your electric guitar is a great feeling, and very possible, even if you are a beginner guitarist. Your guitar skills are in direct
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Guitar Techniques, Popular Songs, Vital Element
Music Business Contacts – 4 Follow-Up Tips to Streamline Your Successes
Jeri Goldstein asked: Music Business Contacts are a musician’s, life’s blood and effective, efficient follow-up can mean getting a record deal, getting reviewed or getting booked.You’ve made your initial contact, sent your first email, letter, or complete packet. Now the next step is crucial and often the difference between throwing money or time out the door or getting what you want. Follow-up is not fun and often I hear artists say, they made the call or sent the packet so they’re done. What was sent is so often forgotten and three months later they wonder why they haven’t heard back from the person, the label, the media contact or the venue’s booking person.Here are 4 tips to make your follow-up more streamline.1. Keep your initial lists to bookers, media or other industry professionals, SHORT. Face it, there is no way you or anyone else can do adequate follow-up on a 400 piece mailing or emailing let alone a 4000 piece mailing or emailing and get the results you are looking for.If you do your research first, then target 5 -10 prospective venue bookers, media or industry professional to send to, you are able to track that submission and set strategic [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Enormity, Media Contact, Time Out
Tips For Recording Vocals – Discover How The Professionals Get That Great Vocal Sound
Martin Stan asked: If you want to record professional sounding vocals for your band or just as a solo songwriter, then there are some very simple but essential tips that you can use to get the best possible recording.The chances are that you are plugging your microphone directly into your computer soundcard which is fine and you’ll certainly get a reasonable recording however you will never get a truly professional sound doing this.The problem is that your vocal will have peaks and troughs in volume due to the way in which you sing, so this will certainly come across when listening back to your recording. Although you may think that this is what you are looking to achieve, unfortunately it isn’t.The key to a great sounding vocal is to smooth out the variation in volume when singing, so that even if you are belting out a chorus the actual volume of the vocal should not change however it is crucial to retain the quality of the voice. Simply moving away from the microphone, whilst maybe working in a live performance, doesn’t work when recording vocal because it stands out in the recording. It makes the whole tone and feel of [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Moving, Smooth, Vocal Recording
Advantages and Disadvantages of Partnerships in the Music Business
Boomy Tokan asked: When we talk about partnerships, I am referring to a situation where two individuals who own the company are working together and share the responsibilities and risks proportionately.Here are some key advantages: Sharing Risks – One of the great things about a partnership is that you are probably funding the business together and sharing in the profits and losses. In this ways the risk is divided by those involved and not just one person. If the business does well you all share in the success and if it does not the mishaps are shared too, therefore the amount of risk an individual has is greatly reduced. Sharing Burdens – One thing any business owner knows is the amount of work required to ensure success. In a partnership all partners can be involved in the day to day running of the business thereby sharing the responsibilities and workload. Companionship – If you want to talk about your business or run through some ideas it is important to have someone who not only understands but has a stake in seeing the business succeed. Companionship has a tendency to greatly reduce stress levels in business. Input of Joint Expertise – [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Fate, Profits, Tendency
Teach Music With Sing-Along and Animal Toys
Akimna Chuaho asked: Help your child learn about tempo as you keep time with their favorite stuffed animal toys. Tempo is the speed at which a song is sung or played. It helps set a mood. Your kid will learn to appreciate that slow songs can make you feel calm and peaceful, while fast songs can help energize your spirits.Here is a fun-filled activity that you will surely enjoy with your kid and help you teach the subject.1. Ask your child to select a stuffed animal for each of you. Then find an area to sit down and cradle your toy. Suggest to your youngster that it’s time to wake up our sleeping friends by singing to them. Explain that singing a slow, gentle song such as “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” is a proper way to wake up our pets as it won’t startle them. We don’t want them to be grumpy when they wake up.2. Instruct your child to slowly sway and move to the music as she sings the words. Then tell your child, “They’re waking up! The animals are waking up!”3. Next, ask your kid to sing a faster “up-tempo” song. “Bingo” is a fun one, or [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Parrot, Stuffed Animal, Twinkle Little Star
Karaoke 101: Some Basic Facts Of Karaoke
Robert Thatcher asked: Have you ever wonder why this little music machine attracts so many people in the entertainment world? Have you ever tried singing a good song using a karaoke?Today, the utilization of karaoke is rapidly gaining a fair share in the market. In most entertainment places like bars, merry-making will not be complete without these remarkable music machine known as the karaoke.However, many people are wondering what this karaoke is all about. How come that this new technology had quickly gained the people’s attention in a short span of time.Moreover, there are many people wondering why, is spite of the close interaction between and among karaoke users, still, they do not know what karaoke is all about.So for those who wish to know everything about karaoke, here is a list of some facts that will help those who want to land a big score in this remarkable music box.1. When name mattersIt is obvious that the word “karaoke” is a foreign name.In reality, karaoke is actually a Japanese term, which means “empty orchestra,” where “kara” in Japan means empty, while “oke,” from the Japanese term okesutora, which means orchestra.No wonder why using karaoke literally creates a small orchestra [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Grand Time, Kara, Wonderful Music
Importance of instrumental music in yoga
An intimate touch of sound or music can penetrate the whole being of human body. From the ancient ages this is a proven fact. Particularly in India, music for its rich root is considered as an integral part of Yoga practicing. And India has also a rich source of instrumental music with its innumerable kinds of musical instruments be it classical, traditional or folk. Every kind, every type and every genre has its own distinct characteristics. The mild and melodious tunes of flute or the healing sound of sitar, each one soothes the mind and soul. Instrumental music can be used as the best kind of meditation music. As the beautiful sounds of instruments help the mind and soul to relax and concentrate on a single thought. Yoga or meditation is a way to connect oneself with the divine power or God. Gods and Goddesses often have a close association with music. It is said that the melodious tune from the flute of Krishna, the God of love, overflows this earth with serene divinity. Musical instruments are also used to worship Saraswati, the Goddess of music. Instrumental music frees the mind from all mundane thoughts and pulls the mind towards [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Importance, instrumental, music, Yoga
Italian Music; A Harmony That Has Led To An Identity!
Italy, known for its classic heritage and food is also well known for its musical spectrum. The music of Italy is considered a marker of Italian ethnicity and it holds a great position in the society. Much to the surprise, the innovative Italian music scale and theatre were key factors for the progress of renowned opera, and European classical music, including symphony and concerto. Italian culture has always been accommodative of foreign cultural music. The influence of such has resulted in Italian music including certain traits of Arabian, French, and Spanish music. Classical Italian music has been the central theme of European music. Classical Italian music is a mixture of romantic and melodious harmony. The vocal lines are more prominent than the tonal complex and are never surpassed by the instrumental accompaniment. Italian instruments and vocal music being considered the iconic identity of Italians, acquires one of the highest positions in the arena of traditional Italian music. Folk music being the peppy and joyous note of any tradition is certainly a main attraction in the music of Italy too. A note worthy point is that Italian instruments are an integral part of Italian folk music. Though technological innovations and changing [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: harmony, Identity, ITALIAN, music
Vocal Release Reviews – A Quick Look
There are many reviews on the Vocal Release Program that has been developed by Eric Frey. The techniques that are used for learning to sing or becoming a better singer have been around for many years. However, Eric is the first singer to actually sort through all of the methods and techniques taught to develop a program that anyone can benefit from. You can find Vocal Release reviews on most of the vocal music instruction review sites on the Internet. A person who is not using proper technique when they sing will have some obvious problems. They will have limited range and run out of breath when singing, push and use more air for high notes, use lots of air for volume, get a sore throat or become hoarse when they sing and be unable to control the volume of a note within the text of a piece. In addition, the tongue will group in the back of the throat, the larynx will rise. If you have any of these problems, then the Vocal Release Program may be what you need to get on track with your singing. The format and description of the program in reviews does not vary [...]
Learn to Sing Fast-Track Combination – Famous Vocal Music Teacher’s Powerful Singing Method – The Fastest Way to Improve Your Voice
Is it possible to perfect your singing in a matter of a few short months? And by saying “perfect”, I mean that you are now as good as or better than any singer you hear on the radio. You can hit the high notes with absolute ease. Your tone is slick and professional sounding. Difficult songs to sing are like a walk in the park to you. Can this type of miraculous transformation be made in a few short months? From what I’ve seen and my own experience, although very rare, it is possible. Although the vocal music teacher that you learn from is absolutely vital if you want to make these kinds of staggering improvements. To make a transformation in your voice that is so earth shattering, here’s what you need to do… You must reprogram your voice completely, so it now functions perfectly for singing. That’s the thing about 99% of all the singers out there. They all have the same equipment as that great singers, but they don’t know how to use it as effectively. To transform your voice, you must learn how to operate your “singing equipment” in a correct way for singing. Once again, this [...]
Singing Success Review – You Can’t Go Wrong
Sam Sparks asked: The Singing Success program by Brett Manning is one of the best systems of available for those who seriously want to improve the vocal range and ability. It has been used by several top performers like Taylor Swift and Keith Urban. It consists of a set of 17 lessons that start every singer no matter what level they are, with the same exercises and helps them build their vocal strength throughout the whole 17 sessions. This program allows singers to improve their vocal range by at least one octave. It helps them use their voices without strain. This gives more confidence and overall better performances. It uses the Speech Level Singing method, by Seth Rigg, which teaches singers how to sing with using less vocal energy, giving them more endurance and gives them more strength in their performances. Brett Manning has just improved on some of the weak points of the Speech Level Singing method. He took the strong points of the system and added some of his own techniques to make the whole program extremely helpful. The program alleviates the need for long, drawn out singing lessons. You can listen to the lessons over and over [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Seth Rigg, Specifics, Top Performers
Disc Jockey Career Essentials Facts and Requirements
Daryl Ledyard asked: If you have chosen to become a disc jockey it is essential to know the requirements to become a successful DJ. Before giving any public performance you have to undergo preliminary training. It is helpful to have a degree in the related field to become a professional DJ such as a degree in mass communication, journalism etc. The first and the most important requirement are to have an ability to please the people by your voice. People hire professional DJ’s to enhance the entertainment of their event. So to make an event memorable it is very important for you to show best of your skills. This you can only do if you have some tips and training before giving a public performance.To become a DJ it is important for you to be familiar with the basics. You should be very familiar with the use of all the equipment and its presentation on the stage. You should have an ability to make an eye to eye connection with the guests so that they feel that you are DJing for them. You should be aware about the latest songs to be played according to the event. It is the [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Audience, music, People
Background Vocals – Tips For Getting Session Singing Work
Judy Rodman asked: Singing background vocals, or backing vocals as they are sometimes called, is a specialty field of recording session singing. There are special skills, professional work ethics and attitudes to be learned to “make it” in this extremely competitive market.To sing background vocals you need -1. Vocal training to be able to perform the feats of what I call a “stunt singer”. It takes more stamina and control to be a great background singer than to be a lead singer, because you will have to trace and blend with another voice perfectly, taking on the lead voice’s tone, personality, rhythm, phrasing and accent, or adding whatever different texture of voice the producer wants to offset the lead singer’s voice.2. To be able to change your voice at the producer’s request.3. To be able to hear and create harmony parts.4. Experience singing background parts with live performers and/or backing vocals in a recording studio. No matter what kind of training you have, there’s no substitute for actual experience. It’s a catch-22; you need experience to get experience, so take whatever opportunity you can possibly find or afford to get in front of a stage or recording studio mic.5. A [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Recording Studio, Session Singers
The Music Business – Finding Your Niche
Kato Hammond asked: No longer can the lack of radio support or obtaining a record deal be the scapegoat for a band or individual artist’s not being able to gain national attention. The playing field from what it used to be 10, and definitely 20 years ago is now basically on even level. Sure, there are many who have more of the advantages, but due to the leveling of the playing field, the same things can be achieved by anyone, with a little more grinding… and a lot more paying attention and making use of the advantages you now have playing in your favor.Hip-Hop artists are doing it themselves. Authors are publishing their own books. Anyone with a quality HD camera and the hunger for cinema can make a film. And you know what? Because of the internet, there is no longer a middle man needed distribution reaches to your audience.So now what’s your excuse?With the advent of today’s internet marketing techniques through social media, you are now able to showcase your live shows via video platforms such as YouTube or Film Rookie. You are not able to not only allow your music to be heard, but to be instantly [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Music Business, Myspace, Radio Support
Why it is Important to Warm Up Vocals Before Singing
Katie Hayland asked: Warming up your vocals before singing is crucial to ensure peak performance and to ensure the continued health of your vocal cords. Just as an athlete would not dream of running a marathon without warming up, so should a singer be wary or straining their vocal cords without adequate warming up.Warming up before singing involves not only warming up of the vocal chords per se, singers should also include in their warm up routine a short warming up of the body in general. Singing is a process that involves the whole body. If the body is feeling tense or if the body is unwell, you will be sure that this will affect your singing. Personally, i can’t sing if i’m too hungry or too tired. I’m sure many of you have felt the same before on many occasion. So you understand the link between body health and singing.The general warm up of the body is similar to those before an exercise, mainly stretching of the upper body. Basically, you need to ensure your body is relaxed and free of tension. Places to look out for especially are your neck, shoulders and jaws. Simple exercises to do would [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Exercise, Tension, Vocal Cords
Artist Branding in the Music Business
Trevor Fisher asked: Music branding has become more and more popular as a topic amongst not only the hierarchy of the music industry but the average artist and independent companies. Artists are slowly beginning to realise the power of their own name and how they can generate not only another revenue stream, but an even more significant financial return that dwarfs the return from their music career.One of the most significant markers was laid down not in the music industry but in sports. When Michael Jordan the basketball legend achieved notoriety when he signed an extremely lucrative deal with Nike to produce the Air Jordan range, the table was set and has continued in sports with many sportsmen including David Beckham and Tiger Woods.The deal with Michael Jordan was not the first time various industries recognised the power of performers be it sportsmen, actors or musicians. Run DMC the famous Hip Hop legends after recording and releasing the hit “My Adidas” was approached by the sport wear giants when sales of the brand increased due to the songs popularity.Some would argue even more significant than these cases are the cases of minor celebrities such as the late Jade Goody (Channel [...]
Categories: Training/Vocals Tags: Amazon Founder Jeff, Lucrative Deal, Tiger Woods
