The Intelligent Vocalist

In this episode, John talks with May Oskan about rough vocal effects and the techniques behind them. May also discusses the importance of creating vocal effects safely and the different parts of the vocal tract that can be used to create distortion. She explains that coordination and control are key in creating different vocal effects.  Episode Highlights Creating vocal effects safely involves con...

In this episode, John explores the concept of the vocal prime, its significance, characteristics, and implications for singers of all ages. He emphasizes the importance of honoring and investing in the voice, regardless of age, and encourages continuous improvement and care. Episode highlights: The vocal prime is a significant period in a singer's life, characterized by strength, stability, and fl...

In this episode, John discusses the importance of charisma and owning the space as a performer. He emphasizes the cultivation of energy and emotional communication, and highlights the role of vocal technique and emotional intention in creating a powerful performance. Episode highlights: Charisma is a quality that can be cultivated and developed by performers to own the energy and space during a pe...

In this episode, John Henny discusses the importance of emotional support for singers. He emphasizes that singing is different from learning any other instrument. Singers expose themselves in a way that other instruments don't because the average listener focuses on the singer more than any other aspect of music. Singers also face emotional challenges such as stage fright, self-doubt, and criticis...

In this episode, John Henny interviews Kenneth Bozeman about the concept of the chiaroscuro whisper. Ken explains that the chiaroscuro whisper is a technique used to identify the resonances of the vocal tract by introducing a white noise into the vocal tract. This technique allows singers to tune their vocal tract and hear the pitches of each resonance peak. Ken also discusses the difference betwe...

In this episode, John Henny discusses the experience of failure and setbacks in the context of pursuing one's goals. He shares personal stories of failure and how he dealt with them, emphasizing the importance of allowing oneself to feel the emotions that come with failure and not judging or trying to fix them immediately.  Episode Highlights Failure and setbacks are inevitable when pursuing goals...

In this episode, John Henny discusses the desire for simplicity and easy answers in singing. He emphasizes the complexity of the voice and the need for a nuanced approach. John explores the challenges of finding solutions for vocal issues and the ever-changing nature of the voice. He also highlights the importance of embracing the complexity of singing and the joy of not knowing everything. John e...

In this episode, John talks with Tracee Theisen-Henny about her role as an accountability coach for creatives, particularly singers. Tracee emphasizes the importance of setting realistic goals, prioritizing tasks, and staying organized to maintain positive momentum. Her approach to accountability coaching is focused on providing truthful and realistic guidance while offering effective encouragemen...

In this episode, John discusses the challenges that singers face as they progress in their vocal journey. He highlights the necessary shift in mindset, the need to let go of technical exaggerations, and the importance of developing a vocal identity. Episode highlights: The technical exaggerations that helped you as a beginner will need to become more nuanced. Embracing one's voice and understandin...

In this episode, John discusses the essential steps to developing vocal power. Vocal power is achieved by creating a more intense sound wave and filtering it through the vocal tract. He also explains the importance of activating the vocal tract and using semi-occluded vocal tract exercises to increase baseline pressure. Episode highlights: The closed phase of the vocal folds is crucial for power,...

In this episode, John discusses the process of being productive and completing projects. He shares his experience of writing and publishing books to help others, emphasizing the importance of deadlines and accountability. Episode highlights: Setting deadlines and having accountability are crucial for being productive and completing projects. The process of finishing and publishing can be challengi...

In this episode, John shares 10 things he wishes he knew before he started singing. He discusses the unique nature of the voice compared to other instruments, highlights the changing nature of the voice, and encourages us to apply the knowledge we gain. Episode highlights: The voice is different from other instruments and requires patience and understanding. The voice is a changing instrument, so...

In this episode, John talks with Mike Massé, a musician known for his popular YouTube covers, about his journey from being a lawyer to a full-time musician. Mike explains his approach to choosing songs and how he strives to recreate them faithfully while adding his own touch. He also discusses the challenges of staying healthy as a vocalist and the transition to being self-employed. Episode highli...

In this episode, John Henny introduces the HEROES system, a method to keep your voice healthy and flexible. Each element of the system is essential for maintaining vocal health and longevity. Episode highlights: The HEROES system (hydration, exercise, range, optimization, energy, and sing) is a comprehensive approach to maintaining vocal health and flexibility. Both topical and systemic hydration...

In this episode, John discusses breaking through self-imposed limitations in singing. He explores the power of memories and stories in shaping our beliefs about our voice and potential, and encourages singers to embrace their unique voice and let go of negative self-talk. Episode highlights: Past experiences and memories shape our beliefs about our voice and potential. Accept and embrace your uniq...

In this episode, John Henny discusses the lessons he learned from writing and publishing his latest book, 'The Mature Singer's Guidebook.' He talks about the challenges he faced during the writing process, how he overcame self-doubt and resistance, and offers valuable advice for anyone embarking on a big project. Episode highlights: Imposter syndrome and self-doubt come with big projects after the...

In this episode, John Henny discusses the importance of singing from the vocal tract. He shares his inspiration for writing his book, The Mature Singer's Guidebook, and how his work with Kerrie Obert helped him understand the significance of the vocal tract in maintaining a healthy voice. Episode highlights: The vocal tract plays a crucial role in singing and should not be overlooked. Balancing te...

In this episode, John talks with Susan Lowell de Solórzano about the concept of biotensegrity and its application to singing. Susan shares her personal experience with biotensegrity and how it changed her approach to singing. She emphasizes the importance of balancing tension and relaxation in singing, and explores the use of metaphors and imagery to enhance vocal performance. Episode highlights:...

In this episode, John discusses the importance of vocal values and how they can shape your success as a singer. He emphasizes the difference between what is within your control and what is not, and encourages focus on the things that are within your control as defined by your values. Episode highlights: Focus on what is within your control and accept what is not. Identify and prioritize your perso...

In this episode, John talks with tenor, pedagogue and researcher Nicholas Perna about the topic of voice issues and the stigma surrounding them in the singing community. They discuss the concept of technique shaming, how singers often blame themselves for vocal struggles, and highlight the complexity of singing and the various factors that can affect the voice, emphasizing the need for understandi...

In this episode, John discusses his top strategies for optimizing the voice. He emphasizes the importance of simplifying the singing process and breaking it down to first principles. Episode highlights: Simplify the singing process by focusing on air, cord, and vowel (ACV). Practice efficient breathing and maintain a tall posture. Use narrow vowels and semi-occluded vocal tract exercises to optimi...

In this episode, John talks with top voice-over artist Liz Hill as she discusses her experience with freelance work and how it has changed her life. Liz highlights the advantages that singers have in voiceover work, as their vocal training and skills are easily transferable. She shares her journey of starting out in freelancing, the potential for income in this field, and her new venture of creati...

In this episode, John discusses how to deal with changing information in the field of singing. Information needs to change and evolve, but it's important to start with simpler and bigger chunks of information in the beginning of one's singing journey. Episode highlights: Don't fall for the advertising trope that claims everything you know about singing is wrong. Focus on the basics and foundationa...

In this episode, John interviews Karin Titze Cox and Ingo Titze about their book 'Voices Free After SOVT.' They discuss the groundbreaking approach to voice and the importance of semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTs). Episode highlights: Having that back pressure helps the vocal folds maintain a more stable and a more efficient posture for vibration. Getting the motor memory from SOVTs is a...

In this episode, John talks with Dani Elliott as she shares her journey as a backup vocalist and provides insights into the challenges and rewards of touring. Episode highlights: Building a community and making connections is crucial for success as a backup vocalist. Taking care of mental and physical health is essential while on tour. Preparation, professionalism, and being a good hang are qualit...