Ponderings on the difference between a vocal artist and a demo singer

What quality differentiates a vocal artist from a demo singer?

I propose that the former creates and shares new perspectives generously, vulnerably, displaying ideas which might not work. The latter sings the notes, and often remains in the safe zone, with less visibility, less accountability. They’ll give you the notes, but probably won’t give you goosebumps.

My approach

I personally prefer to be on the hook for helping create something amazing, something that resonates, something haunting. I come from a background of musical theatre and songwriting, so my goal is two-fold. First, I work to tell the story I am singing with a strong perspective or style. Second, I work to elevate the materials I’ve been given by using everything in my musical arsenal.

This means I must bring my Self to the art. I work this way because I know you want me to return something better than what you have already presented to me. And I bring my Self because my artistic spirit needs to play.

Integrity with bravery

I have respect for retaining the integrity of my clients’ work at the core of what I do. I don’t always play it safe. I love listening intently to what you have brought to the song, then allowing intuition and skill to find the je ne sais quoi that keeps listeners coming back.

Sometimes I add new musical sections into interludes, or use interesting vocal tones. Creating backing vocal arrangements is a deeply creative pleasure that can lend entire new levels to a song.

And now the vocal is “art”

I call these deviations from the specified notes and direction art. It is the subjective part of what I do that may work well for some people’s taste, and not so well for others. That is simply a result of artistic musical creation.

Your prerogative

When you receive your vocal files, you may choose to mute, filter, alter, or put this new material right up front. That is your prerogative. We both know you could attain “simply the notes” from countless demo singers on the web — but you’ve come to me.

Thank you for allowing me to deliver some of my artistry into your projects.

Peace & blessings,

— Racquel