Do you feel like your voice lacks power or depth? Are you curious about vocal fry or how to add texture to your singing with vocal distortions (also known as vocal drives in Brazil)? You’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re diving into two essential vocal techniques: fry and creaky sound. These can help you strengthen your voice and add a new layer of richness to your singing.
Understanding Vocal Fry and Creaky Sound
If you’ve been following my vocal training series, you may remember our discussion on two complementary muscle groups that work together when we sing: the TA (thyroarytenoid) and CT (cricothyroid) muscles. If you missed that, be sure to check out the first video in the series for a deeper understanding of vocal mechanics.
Now, let’s get into fry. Vocal fry is that low, rattling sound you can make when you relax your vocal cords and let them flutter loosely. It’s often described as the “extreme creakiness” in your voice. The term “fry” comes from the sound’s similarity to something frying in a pan. Unlike other vocal techniques, fry doesn’t have a defined pitch, making it a versatile tool for voice strengthening and stylistic choices.
Fry vs. Creaky Sound: What’s the Difference?
While fry itself has no pitch, we’ve recently begun distinguishing fry from the so-called creaky sound, which allows for pitch control. Creaky sound occurs when the external muscles of the thyroarytenoid muscle relax, creating a controlled creak with an actual note.
For singers who struggle with a weak or breathy voice, both fry and creaky sound are invaluable tools. They can help add substance to the lower range of your voice, provided that the issues you’re experiencing aren’t related to a vocal pathology. Always consult a speech therapist or otolaryngologist if you suspect any vocal health issues.
Can Creaky Sound Be Considered a Vocal Drive?
If you’re intrigued by vocal distortions, or drives, here’s an important clarification: while vocal fry itself isn’t considered a drive, creaky sound is. Creaky sound is classified as one type of vocal drive, adding distortion to the sound for a more textured and edgy quality, often used in modern music styles.
Tips for Mastering Fry and Creaky Sound
If you’re having trouble mastering these techniques, especially fry or creaky sound, a good tip is to lower your breath pressure as much as possible. The key to these techniques lies in how much air you’re using, and minimizing pressure allows for better control.
Examples in Popular Music
For a practical example of creaky sound, check out country singer Chris Young. He frequently uses creaky sound in his singing, especially in the lower range, adding emotional weight and stylistic texture to his performances.
Ready to Learn More?
Are you interested in mastering vocal drives or adding more techniques like fry and creaky sound to your vocal toolbox? Drop a comment below and let me know what you’d like to learn next!
If you’re ready to take your singing to the next level, whether you’re looking to improve vocal strength or experiment with vocal effects, consider booking a lesson with me. Together, we’ll work on building a stronger, more dynamic voice.
Stay tuned for part three of this series, where we’ll continue exploring advanced vocal techniques. Don’t forget to check out the previous videos for more insights into vocal registers and muscle coordination!
