Singing with Soul

Not too long ago I attended a show for Amel Larriuex, one of the greatest American soul, R&B and jazz singers (in my opinion).  Singing at the historic Jazz Alley -- where artists of international stature such as Oscar Peterson, Nancy Wilson, Taj Mahal and Dr. John appear weekly -- Amel Larrieux too graced Seattle with her smooth and feathery voice.  Many of Amel's songs surrounded the very topic in which the genre of soul & r&b are known for: love.  As I watched her sing and listened to her words, I became enveloped with unwonted emotions. It was most definitely a soulful experience.

Let's take another look at Amel's musical history: she grew up in Manhattan in a artists' building called Westbeth.  There lived talented folk from various racial and economic backgrounds, creating a social atmosphere rich with learning opportunities.  

(Mental note #1: To learn soul singing, live with people from diverse backgrounds.)

Later in life, Amel met producer Laru Larrieux, married, then birthed two daughters.  "Make Me Whole" (one of her most widely known songs out of all of her current four albums) was a song dedicated to a very special someone (her husband, obviously), while "Even If" (another highly popular song) was written for her daughter.

(Mental note #2: Spouse + kids = Hit songs)

Amel once said that "you just have to start crying, it's like that kind of emotion," referring to the uplifting emotions she receives from her music.

(Mental note #3: Find out what makes you cry.  Then write about it)

"...I have to remind myself about what i'm here to do...I know that I only want to bring inspiration and love and good things to other people, and it's just now that i'm starting to learn who I am. So Infinite Possibilities is for me to remind myself: you've got to live what you write."

(Mental note #4: Be real about what you write, let it be inspirational to others and live out your words.)


Two other points to consider when it comes to singing:
1) if you can sing
2) what you're singing about. 

Store in your mind these mental notes and the two points...and you'll be a soul singer in no time.