Singer Sundays #4

As with any profession, the more experience gained, the more knowledge possessed. After seventeen years of working as a professional vocalist, I have picked up quite a few tips and tricks for maintaining a healthy voice. Singer Sundays is my means of passing on this information and hoping it will serve useful to those who enjoy sharing the gift of vocal music.

Tip #4 — Honey — nature’s healer

At this time of year my allergies go haywire! I’m sure there are plenty of others in the same boat as I so what to do when you are scheduled to sing?  I suppose huge stars can pick and choose the time of year they prefer to sing, but for the working artist, the job dictates when we use our talent.  Itchy eyes and a scratchy throat are my regulars during spring so eyedrops and honey are my go-to’s.  Honey is a natural lubricant for the vocal cords so if you are experiencing a dry, scratchy throat carry some honey packets with you and swallow a few minutes before you sing.  It helps lubricate the cords so you don’t feel like you are singing on sandpaper and helps with producing a smoother sound.  Honey is another staple I would suggest to have in your gig bag.  You never know when you will encounter a sore or scratchy throat, and honey is just the balm to provide vocal ease and comfort.