You are NOT alone if you are feeling the pressures of achieving success in the music industry!

In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of navigating the music industry with a focus on personal growth, resilience, and self-compassion.

Join us as we explore the importance of reviewing your goals and reflecting on your achievements, recognizing how far you've come in your musical career.

We'll discuss the value of patience and allowing things to take time, avoiding the trap of comparison, and finding alignment with your peers without losing sight of your unique path.

We'll also talk about the impact you have on others, highlighting how you might be 10 or 100 steps ahead of someone who looks up to you for inspiration. Competing only with yourself is key to personal growth, and we'll share insights on how to foster this mindset.

Finally, we’ll emphasize the importance of being kind to yourself in an industry that often demands perfection, reminding you to celebrate even the smallest of wins.

Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, this episode offers a reflective space to realign your goals, stay grounded, and keep moving forward in your musical journey.

If you would like help strategizing your plan for achieving your goals, no matter what level you are at, please schedule a quick call or schedule a private session.

You can also join the VIP Emerging Artist / Experienced Singer Program that starts Sept 10 where you'll join a group of equally driven artists who are working to elevate their voices and careers.

Summer festival season is in full swing, and if you're a touring artist or singer feeling the strain on your voice, you're not alone.

Whether it's the stress of being on tour, the impact of wildfire smoke, or just the sheer demand of back-to-back performances, your voice might be feeling tired, stressed, or even strained.

This video offers a gentle vocal health and rehab program designed specifically to help you manage vocal inflammation and support your voice when it's most needed.

In this video, we'll cover:

• Essential voice coaching tips for singers on tour
• Strategies to protect your vocal health during stressful times
• Gentle vocal rehab exercises for tired or strained voices
• How to manage vocal damage and inflammation
• The importance of being mindful and not pushing through vocal pain

Remember, this is not about expanding your vocal range or increasing power—it's about gently preparing your voice for continued use without causing further strain.

Always consult your doctor or ENT if you're experiencing long-term issues, pain, or anything unusual with your voice. Your vocal health is crucial, and pushing through pain can lead to long-term or even permanent damage.

Stay safe, be gentle with your voice, and let's keep those performances going strong! 🌟🎤

Link for my patreon page for more detailed warm ups for tired voices:

https://www.patreon.com/RockYourVoice

Link for the Vocal Mist

Link for the Singing Straw

Book a private voice coaching session with me

#VocalHealth #VoiceCoaching #VocalRehab #VocalDamage #SingingWhenStressed #TouringArtists #SingingOnTour #SummerFestivalSeason #WildfireSmoke #VocalInflammation #VoiceCareTips #GentleVocalExercises

This quote from Moneyball blew my mind, as it is SO true when it comes to the music business as well as in sports.

For signed artists this one can really hit home, for anyone wanting more confidence in their voice whether it be for speaking or singing, this quote got me really fired up to share the first step in truly opening up to your genuine sound that will be your MONEYBALL of singing!

In this episode, we dive deep into the singer's mindset and uncover how overcoming mental blocks can transform your voice, stage presence, performance, and public speaking skills.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting out, confidence is key to delivering powerful and engaging performances.

But HOW do you develop that confidence? If you need validation to build confidence, how do we do this?

We will look at past stories that you may be carrying that are blocking your vocal success, or causing tension and breaks in the voice.

There may be beliefs you are holding on to that are quite frankly untrue.

There maybe stresses that you worry about that are not factual or you catastrophize like I do!

Let’s observe, remove the blocks and open your voice.

Please share with me your blocks and lets look at how to remove them to get exactly what you want from your voice that is achievable.

Join me for a FREE virtual workshop on June 24th 2024

Master Your Vocal Confidence: Voice & Mindset Transformation Workshop

This free workshop will guide you through essential techniques to boost your confidence and transform your mindset, enabling you to use your voice with power and clarity.

Sign up here!

This warm up will set you up to start digging into your favourite classic rock tunes! 

AS ALWAYS: Be sure that everything feels comfortable. You should not push, pinch or force your voice. The exercises should feel relaxed without tension or pressure. Be sure you are ready to take your range to some of the high notes. Your vocal health is my priority. Take care of your voice. As I am not with you to assess your work, please monitor your vocal health wisely and do not over work your voice. 

Feel free to email emma@rockitvocalstudios.com if you have any questions or would like help developing your vocal technique! 

**These exercises are for more experienced vocalists, and you are advised to take care when working on them. As I am not able to hear you practicing, Rockit Vocal Studios Inc or the Rock Your Voice Podcast cannot be held responsible for any issues that arise from overworking your voice incorrectly.**

In this episode I am joined by retired RCMP officer, Cynthia Hamilton-Urquhart. We discuss Cynthia's vocal journey and how it has helped her work through her PTSD and helped restore her confidence and emotional connection. 

There is a very real connection to how singing and music can help manage mental health issues. I am not a therapist, and that is not the goal in my sessions, however, there is a very common theme in many of my students and in this conversation we discuss how that cross over occurs naturally through singing and vocal coaching. 

Thank you for sharing your insights Cynthia! I am so happy that singing is bringing you so much joy. 

It was so great to catch up with Calgary based singer-songwriter Matt Blais.

We talk about finding your voice and genuine sound, the meaning and stories behind chords and music, maintaining vocal health with a busy performing schedule, adapting performances for quarantine life, and how his desire to talk to whales lead him to learning the harmonica! 

This episode is filled with inspiration and musical insight, a must for anyone looking to further their journey in the music industry. 

In this episode Ingela and I discuss the cross overs between singing and therapy, and how she has combined her skills as a classically trained vocalist and licensed therapist to become a performance coach! 

We look at ways to overcome performance anxiety and stage fright and the difference between those who thrive off performing vs those who are terrified. 

When it comes to overcoming your fears and blocks, this is a great place to start! 

Visit https://www.courageousartistry.com/ for more information or follow courageousartistry on social media 

As always, you can check out www.rockitvocalstudios.com and @rockitvocalstudios on social for more info and coaching and classes and all things related to singing and the voice. 

I caught up with my good friend and former Karaoke show host, Angela McMullen to chat about some of the behind the scenes tips and tricks to enhance your stage presence and confidence when singing karaoke! 

Angela also shares some fun stories and insights into what it's like to be a karaoke host and some of her favourite memories. 

For more on building stage presence and being a confident karaoke singer, check out www.rockitvocalstudios.com for your chance to join my free #ConfidentKaraoke course online! (runs several times throughout the year! )

In this conversation we talk about musical influences, finding your sound as a vocalist and musician, the filming of their latest "Music Film" Juliet.

We discuss the evolution of band life and committing to your goals as a musician and performer, and how COVID-19 has affected creativity and engagement in the musical community.  

I catch up with the Cuban-Canadian Latina Singer Songwriter Nersy Labrada! 

We talk about launching her musical career, filming her first music video and the hard work and dedication required to follow your dreams and stick with your artistic goals and attention to detail to be able to create the sound and vision you wanted. 

Follow www.nersylabrada.com to support her on this exciting musical journey! 

Congratulations Nersy! Can't wait to see what the future holds for you! 

In this episode we explore your range with gentle exercises, firstly to see how far you can go without any tension, pain or pressure keeping everything safe and easy. Then we look at a few exercises to work on developing consistency and stamina while reaching higher and lower notes in your vocal range. 

Visit Rockit Vocal Studios on Youtube for the video of this as well as other exercises and vocal tips. 

The lovely Gemma Sugrue joined me for an inspirational conversation today and it was so good to catch up with this wonderful singer and vocal coach! We talk about following your dreams to open a vocal studio, the pathway to becoming a vocal nerd and learning all the science of singing!

Plus Gemmas tips on performing live, working as a valuable team member on stage and developing a 360 approach to becoming a reliable and effective performer. 

We also talk a little about growing up in Ireland and her contributions to Rockit's Virtual Vocal Vacation that we have been sharing this week over on instagram @rockitvocalstudios

Follow Gemma online at www.gemmasugrue.com to keep up to date with all she has going on! 

Thank you Gemma for such a wonderful and insightful conversation. x

It was so great to catch up with James Colt, aka Colton! We started working together many years ago, and he has proven to be such a dedicated performer, artist, rapper, vocalist and musician. 

In this interview we chat about collaborating online, taking risks and reaching out to inspiring artists. 

How important it is to remain consistent and keep momentum while also remaining genuine as a creator. 

In this episode we look at proper mic technique for a gig or speaking at a public event.

There are a few very basic things that you can take into your own hands immediately that will give you confidence on stage, help you make friends with the sound crew and get your audience on side immediately!

Follow these tips for a successful show or speech that sounds great!

Have fun!

Tips for Proper Mic Technique on Stage:

• Distance and Angle: Keep the microphone about 6-12 inches from your mouth, and slightly off-center to avoid plosive sounds (like "p" and "b" sounds).
• Consistent Position: Maintain a consistent distance and angle to ensure a steady sound level.

• Hold Steadily: If using a handheld mic, hold it firmly but not too tightly to avoid handling noise.
• Avoid Unnecessary Movements: Refrain from moving the microphone unnecessarily, as this can create distracting noises.

• Projection: Speak clearly and project your voice, but don’t shout. Let the microphone do the amplification.
• Modulation: Use vocal dynamics to add interest, but be mindful of staying within the microphone’s optimal range.

• Monitor Placement: Ensure monitors are placed correctly and avoid pointing the microphone at them to prevent feedback.
• Volume Control: Work with the sound engineer to set appropriate levels and avoid sudden volume changes.

• Eye Contact: Engage with the audience by making eye contact rather than looking at the microphone.
• Body Language: Use expressive body language to complement your speech, but be mindful of the microphone’s position.

• Sound Check: Always perform a sound check before your performance to adjust settings and get comfortable with the microphone.
• Practice: Rehearse with the microphone to get used to its feel and response, and to ensure you’re comfortable with your delivery.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your voice is heard clearly and effectively, enhancing your stage presence and overall performance.

What an honour it was to spend time with Dr. Pipe Perez and Ron Anderson to discuss the voice and their approach to vocal training. 

How creating the right habits and training for the body can get the best results for your voice. How it's important to understand your voice as your instrument, and how their Voixtek training can help anyone benefit mentally, physically and emotionally with the added bonus of becoming a great singer! 

Not only did I learn so much from this, but it was so fun to reconnect and spend time talking about the voice and the incredible benefits everyone can enjoy from these vocal training techniques. 

Visit www.voixtek.com for more. 

Learn how to build community, raise awareness and step up as a musician and artist, especially at this time, while we need more music art and positivity. 

Megan is the creator of Hello Life Academy and has a ton of knowledge to share about building your brand, marketing yourself and creating community. 

If you are ready to grow online even further and create a space where you can grow as a musician and share your gift, this is the podcast for you! 

visit https://www.hellolifeacademy.com/blog/ for free tools and ways to help build your brand as an entrepreneur, musician and artist. 

I am so happy to get the time to talk with Annika today! As you'll hear, she has so much enthusiasm for the music industry, a ton of experience in performing, singing and writing. 

We chat about so much, including growing up in a musical family, building a solid educational foundation to support your growth in the music business, life as a signed artist, creating music with her husband, touring and performing around the world and all the fun things planned for our vocal retreat in Invermere August 18-23rd 2020! 

Follow @annikaliv on social, check out https://www.leavingthomas.com/ for the official Leaving Thomas content, and also visit www.rockitvocalstudios.com for your chance to learn and sing with Annika this summer at Rockit Vocal Studios singing retreat! 

Join me for a catch up with one of the funnest vocal coaches I have had the pleasure to work with and learn from! Katie Talbot is a Tenessee girl who shares my love of singing and horses! When we met we bonded instantly! 

In this episode we talk about starting out in the music industry, coaching singers and training new vocal coaches in Nashville, maintaining vocal health and dealing with vocal health scares, determination and following your true path as a singer. 

Katie is part of the Vocal Lab Collective, and you can reach her here. https://vocallabcollective.com/

Guided vocal exercises to build power and stamina for your voice. 

I've also included some blank scales that start at 15.30 so that you can practice without me hollering along with you! 

Be sure to check out episode 12 and warm up your voice sufficiently before digging into this one!

Enjoy and good luck! 

In preparation for the vocal power podcast, I wanted to make sure that my voice is warmed up and ready to work. So I figured I'd record my warm up session for you to follow along with, and see what I do to gently wake up my voice.

Males can follow along the octave below, and females can jump on in wherever comfortable. 

I hope this helps you to get your voice ready to sing or work out! 

Remember, this is a gentle warm up, we are not looking at stylistics, perfection of tone or power. We are just waking up the voice, so no judgement on sound, as your voice is getting ready to work! 

Be prepared to be inspired! In this episode I talk with singer songwriter, recording artist, guitarist and performer Terez, all about following goals, staying motivated and dreaming big in a very tough industry. 

Learn about various vocal techniques and vocal health strategies Terez uses to keep her voice in top form, as well as how she is reaching new levels as an independent artist. 

In this episode I have a good laugh with Calgary singer-songwriter Crystal McGrath, as we catch up on whats been happening in her busy career. 

We talk about performing, singing, writing, and how to balance all the things you enjoy into your life! 

Learn how staying focused, connecting with other musicians and trying new things can take your career to the next level. 

Check out www.crystalmcgrath.ca to learn about all the incredible things this girl is up to.

In this episode, I am joined by Whitney Nichole of Songbird Studios in San Francisco, and also the creator of The Singing Straw. 

Whitney explains the science behind the straw, why size matters, and how anyone who uses their voice can benefit from using the straws and SOVT exercises. 

Use this link and the code rockit10 for your special discount when you purchase your set! 

http://lddy.no/c052 

In this episode, I talk about finding the right songs for your voice. 

There are a few ways of looking at this. 

1. What do you love to sing

2. What is your range

3. What styles are you most comfortable with

4. Don't limit yourself & sing what you are passionate about.

I cover ways to discover your range, what keys will work for you, how to find what styles feel most comfortable and how to experiment with singing in a more acoustic style or with a full band and back line. 

As always any questions can be sent to me at emma@rockyourvoicepodcast.com

Our next vocal retreat in beautiful Invermere BC, Canada is now on sale, tickets and information is now available at https://www.rockitvocalstudios.com/retreats-road-trips

OK this is a fun one!

Thank you Carrie for this epic vocal delivery and Thank you Wendell Mobley for writing such a beautiful song.

Here's some breath work for you that you can immediately apply to a really challenging vocal part and also use it towards looking at flips and breaks that add a stunning quality and tone to any vocal delivery.

Check it out and let me know how you get on!

And of course Carrie isn't on this episode, but who knows...maybe one day! I'd love to hear how she decided on this vocal approach for this song!

Good luck, have fun! Warm up first if you plan on hitting this one hard!

If you'd like info on working with me 1:1 check out the website for more info!

In this episode, I catch up with Hayden McHugh, a singer songwriter and performer from Calgary, Alberta. 

We talk about learning to produce your own music and creating your signature sound, as well as collaborating with creative partners and the time and effort it takes to develop your musical skills and build your brand as an artist. 

In this episode, I chat with the lovely Lindsay Ell all about how she got her start in music, her move to Nashville and how it takes hard work and dedication to reach your goals as well as having faith in yourself. 

Lindsay also shares her favourite vocal warm ups and talks about the importance of vocal health. 

Lindsay's new single, I Don't Love You is available now, (it's amazing btw!) and you can find her @lindsayell on all social platforms. 

Follow along with this gentle warm up to get your voice ready for the day. Whether you plan to do a longer technical vocal work out after, or enjoy some singing, perhaps you want help warming up to prepare for a speaking engagement, or a day of using a loud voice in a class full of kids.

This episode will warm up your voice and help avoid fatigue and damage throughout your following vocal work out or singing session or full day of speaking.

Visit the website for more resources at any time, and please like, subscribe follow and share if this was of use to you! 

One of the most common questions I am asked, is why does my voice break and can I make that go away. 

The answer is you are not alone, it happens to everyone, and YES you can smooth out your break. 

Firstly you have to understand how your instrument works. You don't need a biology degree or a masters in vocal mechanics, just feel what's happening. Don't force or push, just go with it. Once you know where the notes want to be placed when sung gently, you can build power and bridge the gap. 

Listen as I explain, (and make some weird noises) to show you how and why everyone experiences this and why its so important to be patient and gentle with your voice to get faster, healthier results that will have you throwing weight at the big notes. 

The psychological blocks we throw in front of our voice and how singing can be so scary for some people fascinates me. In this episode we look at why you might fear singing in public, or even in a lesson. You'll learn how to over come fears that may have stopped you taking lessons, joining a choir or simply singing for fun. 

In this episode, you'll immediately begin to confidently enjoy singing again and be able to start trusting what your voice can do when your brain isn't getting in the way! 

In this episode, I talk about why warming up is important and how it will help you get the best of your vocal session no matter what level you are at.

We will also look at various breathing techniques and ways to help you improve your lung capacity as well as balance a strong and consistent sound when singing. 

Welcome to the Rock Your Voice Podcast. I wanted to launch with a bit of back story about who I am and how I grew up surrounded by music, and how it became my passion in life. The journey I took to become a singer and vocal coach and the incredibly inspiring people who have helped me along the way. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to listen, and I'm so excited to start sharing vocal techniques that will immediately change your voice for the better as well as inspiration for your vocal goals and interviews that will also help you along your way no matter what level you are at or how long you have been singing for. 

Have you tried my Bill Withers Breathing Challenge?

Everyone loves this song, and just recently I noticed some EXTRAAAAA long notes at the end!

So here are some breathing techniques and an immediately actionable way to put them to good use thanks to the amazing music, skills and talent of the late great Bill Withers.

Let me know how you get on, and for all those power vocalists, stay tuned for the Carrie Underwood version coming up right away!

Have a .....Lovely Day!

Sorry, couldn't resist.

Join us on this episode as we look at why attending a songwriting and singing retreat can entirely change your trajectory as an artist.

Whether you're an aspiring musician or a seasoned songwriter, attending a retreat offers an immersive experience like no other. We explore the invaluable lessons and transformative experiences that attendees gain from these retreats.

Discover the power of:

• Creative Immersion: Step into a nurturing environment where distractions fade away, allowing your creativity to flourish.
• Inspiration and Motivation: Hear firsthand accounts of how retreats ignite fresh inspiration and provide the motivation needed to push artistic boundaries.
• Skill Development: Why learning from industry experts and experienced mentors who share invaluable insights and techniques will elevate your songwriting and singing skills in a short time.
• Collaboration and Networking: Explore the magic of collaboration as attendees connect with fellow musicians, forging lasting collaborations and friendships.
• Personal Growth: Experience the profound impact of self-reflection and introspection, gaining new perspectives on your craft and artistic vision.
• Career Advancement: Uncover how retreats can serve as a launching pad for career advancement, providing opportunities to showcase talent and connect with industry professionals.

Whether you're seeking to hone your skills, elevate your vocal abilities, or simply immerse yourself in a community of passionate creators, songwriting and singing retreats offer an unforgettable journey of growth, connection, and musical discovery.

Tune in to gain insights, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of what awaits you at these transformative retreats!

If you are interested in learning more about our next songwriters retreat in Nashville, Spring 2025, join the first to know list here

This comes up a LOT with clients I work with, and sadly more with females than males.

For some reason there is a feeling that JUST being the singer isn't enough to cut it as a musician, and that it is necessary to be playing an instrument as well as the front person.

Don't get me wrong, learning an instrument, understanding musicality and being able to communicate the language of music, chords, keys etc is necessary if you want to be a legitimate artist, and want to collaborate in the industry. But that doesn't mean you have to be a shredder on the guitar to earn your spot as the lead singer or singer songwriter in an acoustic duo.

This mindset can lead to HUGE imposter syndrome and hold you back in your artistry. If you are stepping up as the vocalist, be the best vocalist YOU can be. You don't have to sacrifice your singing by fumbling through chords accompanying yourself to prove a point.

I hope this episode helps anyone who is '"Just" a singer, and needs to be told that is more than enough to be the artist you want to be.

If you are feeling this, and want to elevate your voice to reach your best singing voice, send me an email emma@rockitvocalstudios.com and we can work on overcoming this mindset and getting your voice to be THE INSTRUMENT you know how to use, better than anyone.

Be sure to check out the Weekly Vocal Workout for new training sessions each week, or reach out to learn more about private coaching with me.

Follow on instagram and learn more on the website.

In today’s episode I’m joined by Kurt Dahl aka The Lawyer Drummer. 

We talk about the legal side of the business as well as learn about his experience in the industry as a successful musician. 

Whether you are just starting out, or have established your career in the world of music, this podcast episode has a ton of valuable information about what steps to take to protect yourself as a musician, as well as making sure you sign the agreements and contracts that are right for you. 

As a musician, Kurt has toured North America with his band One Bad Son, scored five top 10 singles and a #1 song, released 9 albums with various artists, and has worked closely with major industry players like 604 Records, The Feldman Agency, Frontside Group, Strut Entertainment, and Hive Management. The band has toured arenas with Def Leppard, Shinedown, and Judas Priest, and in 2019 we shared the bill with The Rolling Stones in front of 70,000 people.

Kurt has practiced Entertainment Law throughout Canada since 2010, providing comprehensive legal advice to a wide array of music, film, television and technology clients since 2010. He became Partner at Murphy & Company in 2016 and was acknowledged by Canadian Lawyer in 2019 for his contributions to Entertainment Law in Canada.

If you are at a new level in your career and may need to talk with someone about the next steps, or have any questions, you can reach out to Kurt via his website.

His social media @lawyerdrummer is also packed with valuable information for musicians at every level of their careers.

Sometimes I'm asked, is there a quick cheat for warming up, are there ways to get my voice ready quickly??

Well, because you should never skip a warm up, I wanted to make sure the impatient singers (LIKE ME! ) have something to use instead of skipping a warm up altogether!

Welcome to 'The Fastest Vocal Warm Up Ever'!

In this episode we get your voice primed and ready to sing in less than 10 minutes!

Join me as I guide you through three easy and highly effective vocal exercises that anyone can do. Whether you're a professional singer gearing up for a performance or just looking to improve your vocal skills, and prep for a practice session, this quick and efficient warm-up routine will have you hitting all the right notes in no time. Tune in and unlock the power of your voice with these rapid warm-up techniques.

These will be a great sneaky warm up pre show (if you've already done a good one earlier) or get you ready for a challenging voice lesson, so you are primed for more hardcore warmups and workouts.

Let me know how you get on and as always I'm here to help! Book a one on one private lesson with me to dig deeper into your vocal progress! Learn more here.

In this episode I'm joined by world-class voice coach Mindy Pack.

In the latest episode of the Rock Your Voice Podcast, join me as I delve into the world of voice coaching with the exceptional Mindy Pack. As one of my personal favorite coaches, Mindy's expertise extends far beyond conventional training. With a roster of chart-topping artists under her belt, her insights into successful singing are unparalleled.

Together, we explore the intricacies of touring as a voice coach, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes realities (no mention of top bunks!). From keeping world-class artists in peak performance mode on the road to maintaining balance and wellness, Mindy shares invaluable strategies for both singers and coaches alike. We delve into the sacred trust and vulnerability inherent in genuine artistry, emphasizing the pivotal role of a voice coach.

Mindy and I touch upon the importance of a strong support system at home, even featuring a cameo from her wonderful husband! Manifestation and clear vision are also key topics of discussion, highlighting the relentless drive required to achieve goals, whether as an artist or a coach.

Despite the seriousness of our conversation, laughter permeates throughout as we recount our experiences in coaching.

I can't wait for the chest bump and tongue twist in the future!

Thank you, Mindy, for an incredible episode. I trust our listeners will glean as much inspiration as I did from our conversation!

You can follow Mindy on instagram, or visit her website here.

In this episode I'm joined by my amazing friends Mike Nash & Mat Cardinal of The Prairie States.

The Prairie States was born out of a desire to put a fresh touch on a classic design. As eleven time Country Music Alberta Award recipients including the 2018 Rising Star, 2020 Songwriters of the Year, and 2023 Group/Duo Of The Year as well as recent nomination for 2022 CCMA Songwriters of The Year, it’s proof that this Edmonton based band is moving in the right direction.

I met them both (along with fellow band mate Jeff Dick) while we were on tour with Jess Moskaluke for her Winter Wonderland Tour, and nothing fast tracks 'getting to know' someone more than living on a tour bus together!

It was a real pleasure seeing them play every night on the tour, and also to get to work with their voices a little too!

I had to invite them on for a chat about their new album, 'Trouble Is' and learn more about their processes as a band, such as songwriting, doing live shows and managing band dynamics in a successful and productive way.

They are nominated for Group of The Year at the Country Music Alberta Awards, this March and have lots of exciting performances coming up this year too! Be sure to follow them on social and also check them out on spotify too.

Subscribe to the Rock Your Voice Podcast on my Patreon page to access bonus content and Ad Free episodes.

Special Throwback edition, I figured it may be worth re-introducing myself!

Since the launch of the podcast a lot has happened and Ive trained a ton, including gaining my vocal first aid certification, mental health informed practitioner certification and much more!

Welcome to the Rock Your Voice Podcast. I wanted to launch with a bit of back story about who I am and how I grew up surrounded by music, and how it became my passion in life. The journey I took to become a singer and vocal coach and the incredibly inspiring people who have helped me along the way.

Thank you so much for taking the time to listen, and I'm so excited to start sharing vocal techniques that will immediately change your voice for the better as well as inspiration for your vocal goals and interviews that will also help you along your way no matter what level you are at or how long you have been singing for.

As promised, use the promo code rockyourvoice to save $25 on a virtual or in person private voice lesson with me.

Here's the link to purchase

Check out the Weekly Vocal Workout for new downloadable training sessions every week

Today on the Rock Your Voice Podcast I’m joined by Grammy nominated, Nashville based songwriter, Bonnie Baker.

Baker has songs with artists as diverse as Rachel Platten, Zella Day, Rascal Flatts, Hunter Hayes, Chely Wright, Reba, Brantley Gilbert, Sara Evans, Emerson Drive, Tenille Arts, Megan Davies and Raquel Cole.

The top five titles from Baker’s catalog have over 150 million spins on Spotify as of January 2023.

We talk all about Bonnie's journey in the industry and how she became a songwriter, as well as the importance of building a genuine community, making space for creativity and taking yourself seriously as an artist.

This episode is filled with tips and tools for aspiring writers to learn more about how to build your network within the industry, how to grow as an artist and learning how to build confidence in your craft. 

Bonnie will be joining us in Nashville April 8-11th for our special singer / songwriter event. Workshop passes are still available, and you can learn more here! 

We hope you enjoy the episode!

Today we continue a look into the world of voice health and performance. It's so important to keep your voice strong, confident and powerful, with the help of a regular vocal maintenance routine.

In this episode, we have a fascinating interview with Aaron, the innovative creator behind the Vocal Mist Nebulizer. Join us as we explore the science behind this groundbreaking device and unravel the secrets to maintaining a strong, safe, and confident singing voice.

Aaron takes us on a journey through the intricate details of vocal health, emphasizing the crucial role hydration plays in keeping our voices in top-notch condition. Discover the science-backed benefits of the Vocal Mist Nebulizer and how it optimizes the hydration process for singers, unlocking the potential for unparalleled vocal performance.

Whether you're a professional vocalist or just someone who enjoys singing in the shower, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired to care for your voice like never before. Tune in as we unravel the mysteries of vocal health, and learn why the Vocal Mist Nebulizer is becoming a game-changer in the world of voice care. Your voice is your instrument—discover how to keep it in tune and ready to soar with confidence!

This episode is not paid for or endorsed in any way by the Vocal Mist Nebulizer, and is just a conversation about how it works and helps singers maintain their voice health.

You can learn more about the Vocal Mist Nebulizer Here.

Check out the Voice Health Central facebook group here.

Be sure to join the Weekly Vocal Workout for weekly voice training sessions, voice health tips and exclusive access to more content from Rockit Vocal Studios.

In this episode I talk with the wonderful ⁠Jason Catron⁠, Vocal Coach, founder of The Vocal Lab Collective, and incredible performer with experience on stages worldwide from Vancouver to the Vatican.

We talk about the learning journey as a singer and / or a voice coach, and how building your network is key for growth as well as why it's so important to face fears and step up to opportunity when it arises.

We look at how to live a creative life and when to take action on your dreams and goals, and when it's ok to feel fear and be brave with your choices as an artist.You'll gain motivation and insight into growing exponentially as a singer or an artists, and you'll hear actionable steps as to shifting your mindset for success and how to be open to all the amazing opportunities that are out there for you RIGHT NOW!

Jason will be a guest coach for our next event in Nashville, April 8-12 2024! Be sure to ⁠get your workshop passes here⁠ and take control of your journey as a singer today!

Jason will be a guest coach for our next event in Nashville, April 8-12 2024!

Be sure to get your workshop passes here and take control of your journey as a singer today!

I hope you found value and motivation in this episode!Thanks as always for your support!

In this episode, I revamp my most poplular episode on the podcast, Episode 35, the Easy And Effective Vocal Warm Up.

For those who use the previous episode regularly, I felt it was time to mix it up a bit for you! You can also watch this episode on my Patreon page for free.

This warm up includes gently waking up the voice, accessing different areas of your range and looking at how to access your mix voice to add power and consistency with ease.

It's so important to take time to GENTLY warm up your voice without straining or overworking your instrument, so you are ready to go on and sing your favourite songs, or train your voice further.

Don't get frustrated or feel you need to work really hard with a warm up, the warm up is the gentle wake up and stretch for your instrument that prepares you for the heavy lifting after. Take it easy!

Warming up also plays a key role in preventing damage or injury to your voice, and will elevate your voice when you do go on to sing your songs or work on other techniques.

In this episode I'm joined by the amazingly talented, Canadian singer / songwriter, and platinum selling artist Robyn Ottolini.

Robyn's writing is genuine, honest and raw and her journey in music has been very much an exciting rollercoaster that has lead her to where she is now.

We talk about being prepared for exciting opportunities and honing your skills, growing as a songwriter, building a team that you can trust, following your instincts and having a great therapist!

Robyn is the perfect example of what so many artists are dreaming about achieving, with a viral sensation on TikTok that lead to a move to Nashville and career in the music industry. Robyn shares about the journey and the lessons she has learned along the way.

Robyn's aptly titled new EP "Growing Up To Do" is out now, and you can stream it on all platforms.

Learn more at https://www.robynottolini.com/

Welcome to The 100th Episode of the Rock Your Voice Podcast - A Singers Unique Journey.

I decided that for this episode it would be really fun to invite some of my clients to share their vocal journeys and to talk very honestly about their experiences as they transitioned from students, to singers, songwriters and performers. 

The guests that joined are a total mix of my client base ranging from Nicole Byrne, a full time teacher who is also a singer and songwriter, Sarah & John who are both learning for fun, but met by chance between lessons at my studio and now perform together at open mics and other events, Audrey who is just starting to take big steps in stretching her confidence and owning her role as a singer, and Cynthia who is a retired RCMP officer who is singing for the pure joy of it, but as you’ll hear, she has shifted her mindset to seeing herself as a “Singer” now too! 

This episode will inspire singers of all levels and ages who may be questioning if it’s too late to start or are wondering if you are ‘good enough’ to embark on a career in the music industry, and overcome anything that may be holding you back from digging in and starting to learn more about your voice.

You’ll hear stories of overcoming stage fright, being brave enough to collaborate and start to work with new people, and being confident enough to put yourself out there for all kinds of fun opportunities that music can bring.   

What became most clear in this conversation is how important it is to have a community to support and encourage you as you are working on developing your craft. 

Learn how Nicole's journey from the write, record and release program has entirely changed  her path, not in the music world but personally too.  How a wonderful collaboration was formed by a chance meeting outside of a voice lesson, and how music and singing has truly changed peoples lives. 

Hear about the growth through their experiences from showing up for their first voice lesson to performing live on stage. 

The stories of transformation were so great to hear, as well as the stories of all the adventures everyone has been on thanks to their music and singing. 

Singing can feel like a solitary journey if you don’t have a band, and even as the front person, you are usually the only one working on your voice independently. It's important to meet other singers, share your stories and learn that you are never alone and this is a never ending journey of growth, development and fun! 

Confidence at the 7 minute mark

Stage Fright at the 11 minute mark

Community & connection at the 22 minute mark  

Performing at Open Mics for the first time at the 25 mark

Join me in this episode as we unravel the secrets behind why being prepared is an absolute game-changer for singers. We'll dive deep into personal experiences and stories that highlight the pivotal role preparation plays in seizing those golden opportunities that can skyrocket your singing career.

From mastering vocal techniques to cultivating a stage presence that commands attention, I'll share practical tips on how to stay vocally fit and refine your performance skills. It's not just about hitting the right notes; it's about being ready for the unexpected, whether it's a last-minute audition or an impromptu collaboration.

I'll draw inspiration from real-life examples, exploring moments when being prepared transformed ordinary situations into career-defining milestones. We'll discuss the importance of maintaining a mindset that embraces challenges and adapts to the ever-changing dynamics of the music industry.

This episode is a personal guide for singers at every stage of their journey. Whether you're just starting or have been in the game for a while, discover how continuous learning and staying ahead of industry trends can set you up for success. It's not just about waiting for opportunities; it's about being ready to grab them with both hands when they come your way.

Tune in and get ready to embrace the power of preparation in your singing career. Let's make sure you're not just waiting in the wings but standing front and center when the spotlight shines on you!

In this episode I look at a few things that can drastically affect your voice health and help you to maintain a strong and consistent singing voice throughout the year.

We look at a few factors such as:

Location. Where you are and the environment you are in can definitely affect your instrument.

Stress Levels. The voice is the first thing to show stress and strain.

Diet. Sometimes singers are known to freak out about certain foods when in fact, there's no need. Spoiler alert! Coffee may be your friend.

Sleep. Making sure you get good rest is imperative for a healthy strong voice.

Hydration. Get your water in you! Also Steam and humidifiers are a game changer.

Having a confident mindset will also set you up for success. Constantly worrying about what can go wrong will lead you down a path of anxiousness which can in turn trigger muscles to interfere where they are not needed and add more strain.

Be sure to instil a regular and effective warm up and cool down into your routine and seek out a voice coach to validate your safe and effective approach. I'm happy to work with you for a one off session to set you up with a training plan that can keep you on track for the entire year!

Learn more about training with me here.

Check out the weekly vocal workout on Patreon for regular voice coaching sessions,

In this episode, you'll warm up your voice specifically to train towards hitting the big note in the Christmas classic O Holy Night.

Singing Christmas songs can be notoriously challenging! They are often written with lots of key changes and fast paced melodies and lyrics, so be patient when working on these types of pieces!

in this episode, I'll walk you through a gentle and effective vocal warm up and strength training session, so that you can reach the note with ease and begin to add more power, and vocal tones that get you the exact sound you want.

If you are a beginner singer and this note is too high for you right now, you can work on building your range and strength gently using the exercises to work up to the Eb in this version of the song.

You can apply these techniques to use on this song in any key, as well as transfer the skills to other songs and vocal styles where you are challenged by singing high notes with confidence, consistency and ease.

Never push or strain your voice to hit a note, you will not build strength that way and you can damage your voice by doing so.

Always warm up your voice when working towards hitting more challenging notes or working on hard songs to sing.

Thank you to Jess Moskaluke for the beautifully executed demonstration while singing live on the Winter Wonderland tour!

If you are a beginner singer wanting to kick start your vocal journey, check out the new course beginning Jan 2024.

There is also a free training video on my Patreon Page where you can also join the Weekly Vocal Workout. As well as watch and follow along with one of my voice training sessions with Jess.

Happy Holidays!

In this episode I’m joined by Meghan Patrick.

The Canadian born, Nashville resident is a Juno and CCMA winning singer & songwriter, who’s latest release is a song that prompted us to have a deep and meaningful conversation unlike any other I’ve had on the podcast.

Her song, ‘The Boy Who Cried Drunk’ is a very personal journey through Meghan’s experience with Domestic Violence. 

Having recently met Meghan at the CCMA’s, where she shared about her new song, I immediately wanted to have her on the podcast so that we could share our stories in the hopes that it can help anyone who may currently be in an abusive relationship.

We talk of our experiences, as well as how the journey is frequently very similar from case to case, and how you are not alone in this. The statistics are astounding. The one thing that shook me and really helped me to manage my situation was hearing that, on average it takes the victim, on average, 7 times to try to leave. For me this was entirely true, and helped to alleviate the shame and guilt I felt when I kept going back.

Today we also celebrate what Meghan refers to as Part 2 to ‘The Boy Who Cried Drunk’ with her follow up single ‘God and a Good Man’ her story of hope and the love and life that is waiting for you.

Although not overly graphic, this episode is a deeper topic that requires listener discretion and may contain triggers for some listeners, however, the biggest thing this episode does contain is hope. The fact Meghan and I are both now in happy and in loving, safe and healthy relationships we are here to show you that with the right support, your recovery and a very happy life is entirely possible.

If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to your local authorities, or use the links below to find the guidance and support you need.

If you are local to Calgary, Homefront is an incredible resource and they helped me hugely.

https://homefrontcalgary.com/

Some international resources can be found here:

https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations

The book Meghan recommends is:

The Gift of Fear – Gavin De Becker

https://www.amazon.ca/The-Gift-of-Fear/dp/0316235776

Sometimes when you are in the situation, you have become numb to how serious it is. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your local authorities if you are in danger or fear for your safety.

Follow and support Meghan on her Instagram @megpatricmusic or by visiting her website.