Musicians Should Sing

Hello boys and girls! This is my first time in Japan and it’s Cherry Blossom season here in Tokyo. I’m at the Imperial Palace and the trees are absolutely magnificent. I wish that I could show you just how gorgeous and picturesque my surroundings are. My friends have told me so much about it and as I make my way around, I notice how super clean, polished, and perfectly manicured everything is – I’m taking it all in. Another amazing treat is that I get to eat Sushi, Sushi, Sushi every day – the best I’ve ever had in my life – I certainly didn’t come here to have a burger that’s for sure. 

So anyway!

We’ve just had a business meeting and I thought that I’d share with all of you musicians out there, some of the topics that came up, hoping that it’ll somehow be of value to you. 

Whether you’re a guitar player, bass player, keyboardist, saxophone player, anything but a singer, I can tell you that more and more, “multitasking” musicians are in great demand. So, I strongly suggest that you learn how to sing, especially in these times of “pivoting”. Why? Because your value as a musician will go up tremendously.   

For example, take bass player A and bass player B; they’re both at the same level of talent on their instrument, but one of them can also sing. Take a wild guess as who’ll get the gig?  Multiply your worth as an individual. Now, you’re a musician that sings, and this my friends, will definitely add value to your repertoire, to future bands and it will render you more employable.  

I can tell you from experience because, for years and years, I was a drummer, and one day, I decided that I wanted to sing. Why not right? Well not only did I teach myself how to sing, but I also learned how to rap and that was no easy feat. In time, I left my beloved drums, became a Frontman, Singer, Rapper and I had the time of my life. By doing so, I explored so many musical styles that made my career and position in the band even more fun, challenging, and freeing at the same time. Another great asset that this brought to my band as it does to every band, is that when one of your singers is having an off night, you can make up for it by stepping in and singing your songs because the show must go on and “the train doesn’t stop”!  

So, yeah, I suggest that you start with one simple song that won’t overwhelm you, create an attainable goal because you don’t want to get discouraged. Take your time and work your way through it. No one’s asking you to sound like Luther Vandross or like Aretha Franklin from the get-go but wouldn’t it be great if you did reach that level of talent? Remember, the more you rehearse, rehearse, rehearse, guaranteed, the better you’ll get. Focus on singing in key and in time, with and without your instrument until you feel comfortable. Once you feel more confident, take on another song and who knows… through the process, you may also become an even better musician as you master singing overplaying your instrument. 

So tell me, have you ever thought about singing as well as playing your instrument but were too shy to try? If you already sing and play, has it benefited you throughout your career?

Well, this is me, signing off from gorgeous but very cold Tokyo. Time for more world-class Sushi and hot sake.  

Make somebody happy.

G.