Realizing Your Dream to Sing in a Band

Perhaps you grew up enamored of rock ‘n’ roll’s “supergroups.”  You were enchanted with bands such as Van Halen or Lynyrd Skynyrd.  Or maybe you idolized bubble gum groups such as the Beach Boys.  Or perhaps you grew up wanting to emulate bands that managed to intertwine music with a serious message, such as Christian rock bands.

No matter what your taste in music, it is entirely possible to realize your goal to sing in a band.  While it can be a challenge to find the right group to work with, once you find the proper fit, you may feel like you’re in heaven.  To sing in a band means to be able to experiment with music…to take part in inspiring jam sessions…to become part of a group you may grow to love.  Let’s face it—to sing in a band is the fulfillment of the ultimate rock ‘n’ roll dream.

In order to sing in a band, you must first have an understanding of your own range and musical style.  For instance, if your songs tend to have a rockabilly feel, you don’t want to join a band that specializes in hard rock classics.  If you’re having difficulty determining your style, you might want to consult an online singing coach.  He or she can work with you to help you to determine which types of songs work well for your particular voice.

When you audition to sing in a band, you should keep in mind that you are also auditioning the other band members.  In other words, you and the band are trying to establish a mutually beneficial relationship.  If the other band members love your sound but you seem to have difficulty adjusting to theirs, you might look for another group to join.  Remember, the best bands represent the perfect blending of musicality, showmanship, and personality.  If you encounter serious personality clashes from the first set, it might be best for you to move onto the next audition.

Singing in a band means leaving your ego behind.  No one wants a diva as a front-man (or lead female vocalist).  All decisions about song selection, performance style, and even wardrobe choices must be made by the group and not by the lead singer.    Far too often, a dominant personality tries to get a hold of a group and dictate what will happen in rehearsals and on the road.  By always thinking of yourself as part of a group and not a solo act, you should be able to avoid unnecessary friction—both on stage and in the recording studio.

During rehearsals, it’s important that the group engage in warm-ups and cool-downs.  Otherwise, all the members of the band could be subjecting themselves to serious vocal damage.  While singing exercises may at first seem boring and an incredible waste of time, they can actually enhance your sound, helping you to secure more engagements. 

Once you’ve coalesced at a group, you can then fine-tune your vocal performances, learning not only how to stay in tune but to sing lyrics with the best of them.