by Mark JW Graham – Vocal Coach in Nottingham, UK | Book Now
This week I’ve been enjoying some old classics by Michael McDonald and the Doobie Brothers.
Michael has been churning out hits for years, and is a singer that I wish more modern singers would emulate. What is particularly impressive is how well he delivers so many of his songs whilst simultaneously nailing quite tricky piano parts. While I find him a bit gruff from time to time, his vocals really are something special.
The rhythm and arrangement of the piano is especially interesting for songwriters, as it moves through multiple different keys, has some special modulations, and also directs the vocal line into some unusual places. A lot of songwriters around this time (like Michael McDonald) used this more rhythmic and harmonically sophisticated approach to create more complex songs. But through clever lyrics and melody, they made them very accessible rather than impenetrable.
Have a listen and enjoy!
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Mark JW Graham - Mark is a high-end vocal coach and singing teacher based in Nottingham, UK.
Certified in Speech Level Singing, and with over 20 years of musical experience, he is known as the "go-to vocal coach" for singers wanting dramatic improvements in their singing voice in a short space of time.
Trusted by singers worldwide, Mark’s expertise as a coach, singer and musician helps clients transform their voices and raise their musicianship to new levels.