by Mark JW Graham – Vocal Coach in Nottingham, UK | Book Now
This week I felt like giving all of you a bit an insight into songs that are brought into the studio for lessons. I’ve featured 5 of my favourites, as well as bit of discussion about each and why I think they are fab songs.
Feels Like Home – Bonnie Raitt or Chantal Krevaziuk
I actually first heard the Bonnie Raitt version of this song as a kid, as it was one of my favourite songs off a movie soundtrack from yeeeears ago. But turns out there is a slightly more popular version by Chantal Krevaziuk that many like – so I’ve featured both here for your enjoyment!
Chantal Krevaziuk
Bonnie Raitt
Rolling In The Deep – Adele
A classic for the noughties, this is a really good one for taxing singers around their first bridge, and is also great for establishing good rhythm given the slightly offbeat nature of the track.
Up – Olly Murs & Demi Lovato
This song straddles the line between pop and dance in it’s sound. While not necessarily taxing on either male or female voices in its original key, it’s quite nice to use with lighter male voices and get them to sing both parts in an appropriate key.
Fields of Gold – Eva Cassidy & Sting
Again, another classic, this time from the folk genre. I really like both versions – Sting, and Eva Cassidy – but Sting’s version just edges out a win over Eva Cassidy’s version for me.
Eva Cassidy
Sting
As Time Goes By – Shirley Bassey
Ahh, a song from a forgotten era… lovely vocals and so beautifully delivered. I also love the harmonically rich chord progression and modulation throughout. As an aside, I remember reading an article about how harmonic content of songs these days has been drastically reduced and simplified since the 60s, and this song is a great example of harmonic richness that we are now missing.
As much as I enjoy the contemporary sound we have from many singers and artists today, I do miss this kind of music.
Suggested Reading
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.
SLS Certified Vocal Coach · 20+ Years Experience · Trusted Worldwide