FINDING YOUR VOICE: THE PERFECT AUDITION SONG

The air always crackles with anticipation and one will always be nervous whenever they are due for a vocal audition.

It’s not just about hitting the right notes, it’s about choosing the right notes – the perfect audition song that will capture the judges’ attention and showcase their unique vocal prowess.

The selection process is often a journey in itself, a delicate dance between personal taste and strategic thinking.

humming along

Many a hopeful singer has spent countless hours scrolling through playlists, humming along to different genres and even recording themselves to get a feel for how a particular track sits with their voice.

It’s a quest that requires introspection, a deep understanding of one’s vocal strengths and crucially, an awareness of what resonates with an audience.

For a number of aspiring musicians, the struggle is real.

“I love belting out powerful ballads, but sometimes I worry that everyone else will choose those big numbers. I want to stand out, to show them something different,” read one comment on social media.

This sentiment is echoed throughout the country.  The fear of being lost in a sea of similar performances is a common anxiety among competitors.

Experienced vocal coaches in Eswatini often emphasise the importance of authenticity. Do not try to be someone you are not, advised an online coach.

Instead, one should choose a song that speaks to them, a piece that allows their natural voice to shine through.  Judges can spot insincerity a mile off. One thing that coaches also stress is the technical aspects of understanding vocal range, identifying strengths like agility or power and selecting a song that highlights these attributes. The cultural landscape of Eswatini also plays a significant role in song selection.

While international hits are popular, many contestants feel a pull towards music that reflects their heritage.  Songs with traditional Swati influences, perhaps infused with modern arrangements, can offer a unique flavour and connect with the judges on a deeper level.  However, this path requires careful consideration to ensure the performance is both respectful and engaging for a contemporary audience.

double-edged sword

The internet, of course, is a double-edged sword. While it offers a vast library of potential songs, it can also lead to indecision paralysis. You can spend hours on YouTube, listening to different covers but that is overwhelming. Sometimes one may think it would be easier if they just had a limited list to choose from. The key, experts say, is to filter the noise and focus on songs that genuinely suit the individual’s voice and personality.

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