What Kind of Singing Do Heavy Metal Singers Use? A Quick Guide to Vocal Techniques in Metal Music
Heavy metal music is known for its loud, aggressive sound and powerful vocals. But have you ever wondered what kind of singing technique heavy metal singers use to produce those intense sounds? In this article, we will explore the vocal techniques commonly used by heavy metal singers to create their signature sound.
One of the most distinctive features of heavy metal vocals is the use of screaming and growling. These techniques, also known as harsh vocals, involve pushing the voice to its limits to create a distorted, guttural sound. While these techniques can be harmful to the vocal cords if not done correctly, many heavy metal singers have mastered them to create a unique and powerful sound that sets them apart from other genres.
In addition to screaming and growling, heavy metal singers also use a variety of other techniques to create their signature sound. These can include clean singing, which involves using a more traditional singing technique to create melodic, harmonious vocals, as well as falsetto, vibrato, and other vocal effects. By combining these techniques with the aggressive, intense sound of heavy metal music, singers are able to create a sound that is truly their own.
History of Heavy Metal Singing
Heavy metal singing, also known as “death growl” or simply “growl,” is a vocal technique used in extreme styles of music, particularly in death metal and other subgenres of heavy metal music [1]. The technique involves producing a guttural, raspy, and aggressive sound that is often used to convey intense emotions and themes such as anger, despair, and rebellion [2].
The origins of heavy metal singing can be traced back to the late 1960s and early 1970s when bands such as Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Deep Purple began to experiment with new and unconventional vocal styles [3]. These bands were heavily influenced by blues rock, psychedelic rock, rock and roll, and folk rock, which helped shape the sound and style of heavy metal singing.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, heavy metal singing became more popular as new subgenres of heavy metal music emerged, including thrash metal, power metal, and speed metal [1]. These subgenres were characterized by fast, aggressive, and technical music, which required vocalists to use more extreme and intense vocal techniques.
One of the most influential heavy metal singers of all time is Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden [2]. Dickinson’s powerful and melodic singing style helped define the sound of the “new wave of British heavy metal” in the 1980s and influenced countless other heavy metal vocalists.
Today, heavy metal singing continues to evolve and expand as new subgenres and styles emerge. Some of the most popular subgenres of heavy metal music today include black metal, death metal, and doom metal, each with their own unique vocal styles and techniques [1].
heavy metal singing is a unique and powerful vocal technique that has played a significant role in the history and evolution of heavy metal music. From its early origins in blues rock and psychedelic rock to its modern-day incarnations in black metal and death metal, heavy metal singing continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with the human voice.
References
[1] Heavy metal music – Wikipedia
[2] Heavy Metal Singing: A Beginner’s Guide
[3] The History of Heavy Metal Music
Heavy Metal Subgenres and Their Vocal Styles
Heavy metal music is known for its loud, aggressive sound and unique vocal style. The genre has evolved over the years, giving rise to several subgenres, each with its own distinct features and vocal styles. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular subgenres of heavy metal and the vocal styles associated with them.
Thrash Metal
Thrash metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that emerged in the early 1980s. It is characterized by its fast tempo, aggressive guitar riffs, and shouted or growled vocals. The vocal style in thrash metal is typically harsh and aggressive, with singers using growls, screams, and shouts to convey their message.
Death Metal
Death metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that emerged in the mid-1980s. It is characterized by its heavy use of distorted guitar riffs, blast beats, and guttural vocals. The vocal style in death metal is typically low-pitched and guttural, with singers using growls, grunts, and pig squeals to create a menacing sound.
Black Metal
Black metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that emerged in the early 1990s. It is characterized by its fast tempo, tremolo-picked guitar riffs, and shrieked vocals. The vocal style in black metal is typically high-pitched and raspy, with singers using shrieks and screams to create an eerie and unsettling atmosphere.
Power Metal
Power metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that emerged in the mid-1980s. It is characterized by its fast tempo, melodic guitar riffs, and operatic vocals. The vocal style in power metal is typically high-pitched and melodic, with singers using clean vocals and falsetto to create a soaring and epic sound.
Nu Metal
Nu metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that emerged in the mid-1990s. It is characterized by its use of downtuned guitars, hip-hop influences, and a mix of clean and aggressive vocals. The vocal style in nu metal is typically a mix of harsh and clean vocals, with singers using growls, screams, and raps to create a unique and dynamic sound.
heavy metal subgenres have distinct vocal styles that are unique to each subgenre. From the harsh and aggressive vocals in thrash metal and death metal to the operatic vocals in power metal, each subgenre has its own unique sound and style.
Key Heavy Metal Singers and Their Techniques
Heavy metal singers are known for their powerful and distinctive vocal styles. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the most influential heavy metal singers and their techniques.
James Hetfield
James Hetfield, the lead vocalist of Metallica, is known for his aggressive and raw vocal style. Hetfield’s singing technique involves a combination of growling, shouting, and melodic singing. He often uses a technique called “vocal fry” to add grit and intensity to his voice.
Rob Halford
Rob Halford, the lead vocalist of Judas Priest, is known for his high-pitched screams and powerful vocal range. Halford’s singing technique involves a combination of falsetto, vibrato, and belting. He often uses a technique called “screaming” to create a piercing and intense sound.
Glen Benton
Glen Benton, the lead vocalist of Deicide, is known for his deep, guttural growls and demonic vocal style. Benton’s singing technique involves a combination of growling, grunting, and guttural sounds. He often uses a technique called “death growling” to create a dark and menacing sound.
heavy metal singers use a variety of vocal techniques to create their distinct sound. From growling and shouting to falsetto and vibrato, each singer has their own unique style.
Vocal Techniques Used in Heavy Metal
Heavy metal is a genre of music known for its loud, aggressive sound. The vocals in heavy metal are often just as intense as the music itself. Heavy metal vocalists use a variety of techniques to achieve their unique sound. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most common vocal techniques used in heavy metal.
Growling
Growling is a vocal technique commonly used in heavy metal. It involves producing a low, guttural sound that is often compared to the sound of an animal. Growling is achieved by using the diaphragm to push air through the vocal cords, causing them to vibrate. This technique is also known as a “death growl” or simply a “growl”.
Screaming
Screaming is another common vocal technique used in heavy metal. It involves producing a high-pitched, piercing sound that is often compared to a scream. This technique is achieved by using the vocal cords to produce a creaky voice or ingressive sound. Screaming is often used in more extreme subgenres of heavy metal, such as death and black metal.
Headbanging
Headbanging is not a vocal technique, but it is a common practice among heavy metal fans. It involves vigorously shaking one’s head in time with the music. Headbanging can be dangerous if done improperly, as it can lead to neck injuries. However, when done safely, it can be a fun way to enjoy the music.
heavy metal vocalists use a variety of techniques to achieve their unique sound. Growling and screaming are two of the most common vocal techniques used in heavy metal, while headbanging is a popular practice among fans.
Influence of Other Genres on Heavy Metal Vocals
Heavy metal vocals are known for their aggressive, powerful, and often guttural sound. While heavy metal vocals have their own unique style, they have been influenced by various other genres of music.
One of the biggest influences on heavy metal vocals is opera. Many heavy metal vocalists have been trained in classical singing techniques, which they incorporate into their heavy metal vocals. This is particularly evident in the use of vibrato and the ability to hit high notes.
Blues music has also had an impact on heavy metal vocals. The bluesy growl and grittiness of blues singers have been incorporated into heavy metal vocals, particularly in the use of vocal distortion and raspiness.
Punk rock has also influenced heavy metal vocals, particularly in the use of shouting and aggressive vocal delivery. This can be heard in the punk-influenced sub-genres of heavy metal, such as crossover thrash and hardcore punk.
Experimental music has also played a role in shaping heavy metal vocals. Many experimental vocal techniques, such as screaming, growling, and spoken word, have been incorporated into heavy metal vocals. This can be heard in the sub-genres of avant-garde metal and industrial metal.
heavy metal vocals have been influenced by a diverse range of genres. While heavy metal vocals have their own unique sound, the incorporation of techniques from other genres has helped to shape and define the genre.
The Science Behind Heavy Metal Vocals
Heavy metal vocals are known for their aggressive and intense sound. But how do heavy metal singers achieve this unique style of singing without damaging their vocal cords? Let’s take a closer look at the science behind heavy metal vocals.
Vocal Technique
Heavy metal vocal technique is a complex and specialized form of singing that requires a lot of skill and practice. It involves using a combination of techniques such as screaming, growling, and distortion to create a powerful, intense sound.
According to a PDF on Heavy Metal Vocal Technique Terminology Compendium, a Poietic Perspective, the vocal folds do open and vibrate but do not collide. The entire sick area above – aryepiglottic folds, arachnoids, epiglottis – everything claps and dances, creating vibrations and acoustic orchestration.
Microphone Technology
Microphone technology plays a crucial role in capturing the raw and intense sound of heavy metal vocals. Dynamic microphones are the most commonly used type of microphone for heavy metal vocals. These microphones are designed to handle high sound pressure levels and are ideal for capturing the aggressive and powerful sound of heavy metal vocals.
YouTube Tutorials
YouTube has become a popular resource for aspiring heavy metal vocalists to learn and improve their vocal technique. There are numerous tutorials available that cover everything from basic vocal exercises to advanced techniques such as growling and screaming.
Science of Heavy Metal Vocals
Dr. Krzysztof Izdebski of the Pacific Voice and Speech Foundation has conducted research on the science of heavy metal vocals. His research has found that heavy metal vocalists use a technique called “false vocal fold closure” to produce their unique sound. This technique involves using the false vocal folds, which are located above the true vocal folds, to create a distorted and aggressive sound.
heavy metal vocals are a unique and specialized form of singing that requires a lot of skill and practice. With the right technique, microphone technology, and resources such as YouTube tutorials, aspiring heavy metal vocalists can learn to master this intense and powerful style of singing.
Heavy Metal Culture and Aesthetics
Heavy metal music is known for its intense, powerful, and often aggressive sound. One of the defining characteristics of heavy metal music is the use of a particular style of singing known as “screaming” or “growling.” This style of singing is also sometimes referred to as “death vocals” or “harsh vocals.”
Heavy metal culture and aesthetics are closely tied to this style of singing. Fans of heavy metal often wear leather jackets and other clothing that reflects the aggressive and rebellious nature of the music. Music videos for heavy metal bands often feature dark, dystopian imagery and themes of violence and rebellion.
In addition to the aggressive sound and imagery, heavy metal culture also places a strong emphasis on authenticity and skill. Fans of heavy metal often value musicians who are skilled at playing their instruments and who are able to perform complex and technically demanding music.
heavy metal culture and aesthetics are characterized by a sense of rebellion, intensity, and authenticity. Fans of heavy metal are drawn to the powerful and aggressive sound of the music, as well as the rebellious and anti-establishment themes that are often present in heavy metal lyrics.
Instruments and Technology Used in Heavy Metal Music
Heavy metal music is characterized by its loud and aggressive sound. To achieve this sound, heavy metal musicians use a variety of instruments and technology.
Instruments
The most common instruments used in heavy metal music are the guitar, bass, and drums. The guitar is often used to create fast, intricate riffs and solos, and guitar solos are a hallmark of the genre. Bass is used to provide a heavy, driving rhythm, and drums are used to create a powerful beat.
In addition to these traditional instruments, heavy metal musicians have been known to incorporate unconventional instruments into their music. For example, Motörhead famously used a distorted bass sound in their music, while Slayer and Anthrax have used voice distortion boxes to create unique vocal effects.
Technology
Technology also plays a significant role in the creation of heavy metal music. Amplifiers and distortion pedals are used to create the loud, distorted sound that is a hallmark of the genre.
In recent years, advances in technology have allowed heavy metal musicians to experiment with new sounds and effects. For example, some bands use digital audio workstations (DAWs) to create complex, layered arrangements.
Loudness
One of the defining characteristics of heavy metal music is its loudness. Heavy metal musicians often play at high volumes, and some bands, such as Motörhead, have been known to hold the Guinness World Record for the loudest concert ever.
heavy metal music is characterized by its loud and aggressive sound, which is achieved through the use of traditional instruments, unconventional instruments, and technology. The genre continues to evolve as musicians experiment with new sounds and effects, but its core elements remain the same.
Learning to Sing Heavy Metal
If you want to learn how to sing heavy metal, there are a few things you can do to get started. Here are some tips to help you improve your heavy metal singing skills:
Exercises
Before you start singing heavy metal, it’s important to warm up your voice with some exercises. Here are a few exercises you can try:
- Lip trills: This exercise involves blowing air through your lips while making a “brrr” sound. This helps to warm up your lips and tongue.
- Humming: Humming is a great way to warm up your vocal cords and improve your pitch.
- Sirens: Sirens involve sliding your voice up and down in pitch. This helps to stretch your vocal cords and improve your range.
Shadows Fall and Lamb of God
If you’re looking for inspiration, check out bands like Shadows Fall and Lamb of God. These bands are known for their aggressive vocal styles and can be a great source of inspiration for aspiring heavy metal singers.
Sing Metal
If you’re serious about learning how to sing heavy metal, consider taking a course such as Sing Metal. This online course teaches you everything you need to know about heavy metal singing, from vocal techniques to stage presence.
With these tips and resources, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a heavy metal singer. Remember to practice regularly and take care of your voice to avoid injury.
Heavy Metal Singing in the Digital Age
Heavy metal singing is a unique style of vocalization that is characterized by growls, screams, and high-pitched notes. This style of singing is commonly used in heavy metal and other extreme subgenres of rock music. According to Wikipedia, heavy metal is traditionally characterized by loud distorted guitars, emphatic rhythms, dense bass-and-drum sound, and vigorous vocals. Heavy metal subgenres variously emphasize, alter, or omit one or more of these attributes.
In the digital age, heavy metal singers have gained a significant following on social media platforms. They use these platforms to promote their music, connect with fans, and collaborate with other artists. Some heavy metal singers have become influencers in their own right, using their social media presence to promote other products and services.
One of the most famous heavy metal bands to emerge in recent years is The Hu. The band blends the screaming guitars of heavy metal with traditional Mongolian guttural singing. The Hu has gained millions of views on YouTube, and their music has been featured in films and TV shows.
Producers play an important role in shaping the sound of heavy metal music. They work closely with singers to create the perfect mix of melody, rhythm, and beats. According to the Dictionary, a producer is a person responsible for the financial and managerial aspects of making a record. They also contribute to the creative process by providing feedback and suggestions to the artists.
Influencers have also played a significant role in promoting heavy metal music in the digital age. They use their social media platforms to share their favorite heavy metal songs and connect with other fans. Some influencers have even started their own heavy metal bands, using their platform to promote their music.
heavy metal singing is a unique style of vocalization that has gained a significant following in the digital age. Singers use social media platforms to promote their music, connect with fans, and collaborate with other artists. Producers play an important role in shaping the sound of heavy metal music, while influencers help to promote the genre to a wider audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common vocal techniques used in heavy metal music?
Heavy metal singing is known for its aggressive and powerful vocal style. Some common techniques used in heavy metal singing include growling, screaming, and shouting. Singers may also use vibrato, falsetto, and other techniques to add variety and interest to their vocals.
What distinguishes heavy metal singing from other genres of music?
One of the key features of heavy metal singing is the use of growls and screams, which are typically not used in other genres of music. Heavy metal singers also tend to use a more aggressive and powerful vocal style, often singing about dark or intense themes such as death, violence, or rebellion.
Are there different types of growls used in heavy metal singing?
Yes, there are several different types of growls used in heavy metal singing. Some common types include the “death growl,” which is a deep, guttural growl used in death metal, and the “black metal shriek,” which is a high-pitched, piercing scream used in black metal.
What are some bands that are known for their death growls?
Some popular bands that are known for their death growls include Cannibal Corpse, Morbid Angel, and Deicide. These bands are part of the death metal subgenre, which is known for its aggressive and intense music.
Can you learn how to do heavy metal vocals?
Yes, with practice and proper technique, it is possible to learn how to do heavy metal vocals. However, it is important to approach these techniques with caution and to work with a vocal coach or trainer to avoid damaging your vocal cords.
How do heavy metal singers maintain their vocal health?
Heavy metal singers need to take extra care of their vocal health to avoid damaging their vocal cords. This includes staying hydrated, warming up properly before singing, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Many singers also work with vocal coaches to develop proper technique and maintain their vocal health over time.
