The conversation goes like this:

‘Hi, are you the voice teacher?
‘Yes. Are you a singer?
‘I want to be famous, but I can’t sing the high notes.
‘How old are you.
’11. I’ll be 12 tomorrow.
‘Happy birthday! So you want to take lessons?
‘Well how do I sing the high notes?
‘Lessons will help you to learn how to sing all the notes within your range.
‘Oh. Can you make me famous?
‘No. I can only teach you how to sing like a star, I can’t make you a star.
‘Oh. Okay. Thanks.

Click – the conversation is over.

This is an actual phone call I received a couple of days ago. I have had many such conversations and not only with young people. It breaks my heart to have these conversations. The young ones who want to be famous, but have no clue about music or singing or how very, very difficult it is to become a pop star let alone staying on top once you get there.

The other reason the attitudes of young fans is so troubling to me: what part does music actually play in this young mind when planning to be ‘famous’ as a pop singer? Why is this not about the music? About saying what your passion is driving you to say though the music? Have we allowed society to dictate the lowest common denominator of music in order to sell the most recordings?

Let’s make a commitment to consume good music, to teach our young budding stars what is good music and good singing. Let’s not let our children be fooled into thinking that the sound they hear on the radio or iTunes is actually a human voice that has not been altered by a clever producer in the recording studio.

If we have the technology to make a lame singing voice sound wonderful are we obligated to use said technology? Or are we being more responsible and more true to the music if we insist that our idols can actually sing in tune live?

You want to be famous? First you must be consumed with a passion for music and for singing. Then you must get a team together that will support all areas of your craft: voice teacher, songwriter, producer, manager, etc. Work and study and learn and grow your natural talent into a solid product. That’s a good beginning.

I am here to help all of our budding stars find their voice – to sing like a star. The passion, drive and commitment are up to you! Online vocal training SingLikeYouSpeak.com or for detailed information on technique VocalPowerTools.com

About the author

Sally Morgan is a professional vocal trainer with over 30 years of experience. Sally is also the creator and author of SingLikeYouSpeak(TM)!

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